Happy holidays! As we head into the new year, we wanted to give you a quick update on VA’s non-health benefits for Veterans. Partly thanks to the historic PACT Act, Veterans like you have applied for benefits at record rates over the past year—surpassing the previous all-time record by 39%—and that’s a great thing. As a result of your benefits applications, we at VA have been able to deliver more earned benefits to more Veterans than ever before, including $150 billion in benefits during 2023 alone. That’s exactly what Veterans like you deserve.
Because of this record increase in applications, there has also been an anticipated increase in the number of claims applications that take longer than 125 days to process (otherwise known as the backlog), which is currently at 378,000 claims. While the total claims inventory has been decreasing over the last several weeks, the backlog is expected to grow in 2024 before returning to normal levels. We have been taking aggressive steps to address this increase and to ensure timely processing of your claims.
Here’s what this means for you:
- Although the backlog has increased, you will likely receive a benefits decision more quickly than during previous surges: Right now, the average claim is processed by VA in 149 days, which is 198 days faster than in 2013 (the last time applications were nearly this high). We also process some parts of your claims faster than others, so if part of your claim is granted, you may get a first payment before your full claim is finished.
- We are granting benefits at higher rates: Whenever you file a claim, our goal is to work with you every step of the way to get to “yes.” As a result of this approach, we were able to grant benefits for 65% of claims filed in 2023—including 76% of PACT Act claims, which is a sharp increase from previous years.
- We are processing more claims than ever before: In fiscal year 2023, VA processed nearly 2 million of your benefits claims—beating the previous all-time record by 16%—and we’re on pace to break that record again in fiscal year 2024.
- Most importantly, we want you to apply for benefits: We want every Veteran, family member and survivor to get the care and benefits they deserve, so we want you to apply today. We’ve hired thousands of claims processing employees in anticipation of this surge in applications, and we have 1,400 more coming onboard soon. So don’t worry and don’t wait: submit your claim today and we will process it for you as soon as possible.
We are proud to serve you each and every day. Thank you for applying for your VA benefits at record rates in 2023 and for encouraging your friends and family members to do the same.
As we head into the new year, please keep spreading the word. Let’s break the applications record again in 2024—and in doing so, ensuring that as many Veterans as possible get the health care and benefits that they so rightly deserve.
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Hello. I’m glad you’re helping us more appreciate it.
My question is.
I get a letter saying I’m eligible for unemployable benefits. That you already reviewed my records. Then I have to go through the process of getting my old employer to fill out the form. And send In. Now I’m still waiting for you to make a decision. On a decision you already reviewed before you sent me the letter I was qualified for . Could be streamlined some. Suggestion.
Thanks for the update. I believe that a lot of the frustration that is reflected on this thread is the result of unrealistic timelines that the VA publishes. To wait years for an appeal or BVA decision is just unacceptable. Especially, when the general perception is that Veterans are a priority within the Federal government. These wait times place some Veterans in a precarious situation. I myself am in the third calendar (1,095 days) year awaiting a BVA decision. It has been in the same spot on the docket for three years (waiting for a Judge) with no more useful information than the day it got there. I have no idea when any progress will occur. That is the overarching issue which causes anger and anxiety among former service members.
Why do veterans with PTSD who can’t manage their money get their second amendment rights taken away while veterans with PTSD who have an alcohol and drug disorder get to keep the guns?
The VA pays them more to be an alcoholic and drug addict at 100%. The VA doesn’t even know why the suicide rate for veterans is going up. Dying from overdosing is a suicide. Shooting themselves dead while they are drunk or high is a suicide.
The SSA doesn’t even pay for alcohol and drug disorders. If the alcohol and drug disorder affects your mental disorder like PTSD, then they won’t pay nothing.
Alcohol and drug disorders makes PTSD worse. The PTSD cannot make the drug and alcohol disorder worse. Alcohol and drug dependency cannot be a secondary condition to PTSD.
All mental health medication states to not take it with alcohol and drug. They are not following treatment and the VA is paying them more money to not improve their condition. The alcohol and drug makes the PTSD treatment worse and causes side effects. That is why the SSA doesn’t pay for alcohol and drug disorders. The VA is paying them more money to make their PTSD worse.
The VA decades of research and treatment of PTSD is a bunch of crap. No wonder their are very few veterans who ever get better. Almost all of them are getting worse.
Thank You for the help. I am grateful for the Healthcare and Disability compensation opportunities generously provided.
Yes, it appears the VA is processing more claims. However, as in my case, the initial claim is processed, but I have to file a HLR on the claim because someone failed to really look at the claim and review evidence subitted or already in the records. All this is doing is that the claim goes around in circles.
You’re correct Calvin. Same thing happened to me. Initial reviewer NEVER even looked at the evidence I submitted causing it to go to HLR, then back to Supplemental, then to Appeal due to the next reviewer never looking at the two Nexus letters the C & P Examiners submitted. Now I sit and wait for some poor sucker to right the wrong the entire VA is responsible for by putting pressure on its people to process claims faster not correctly. Just a bunch of BS to delay and wait for the veteran to die!
More VA lies!
Your numbers are actually lies. Your processing record number of claims, jerk, your counting denied and falsified denied claims as processing. These are Veterans denied compensation. They are Veterans suffering….and you consider that an accomplishment. Let me guess, YOUR NOT A VETERAN. Also your BS statistics are fooling anyone.
In reality the current VA compensation division is denying more claims then every in VA history! Record number of claims have been falsely denied by new hire civilians. Civilians that never served one second to this nation and harbor animosity against veterans.
sir, my military life began in 1952…….there were no open arms for service men not even the job i left to join the air force
would hire me back…..after my overseas duty…….
my first denial was in 1959, and i accepted it as the final word…
i appreciate the oppurtunity to have served, regardless of injuries and the lack of compensation….and i am thankful to the men
and women who served before me and after me….at 17 i was willing to give my life to keep the fight over their….
What about the VETS that got sent to THAILAND from okinowa with out TDY orders. NO paper work. CAN’T prove they were there. GOV. distroyed AIR FORCE pay records so we can’t fall back them. A BUNCH OF BULL.
Part of the reason for this backlog is that you CHOOSE to process the easy denials first rather than process on “first in first out” methodology. This is not fair to those waiting many many months and yes, even years. Let’s be truthful about your “Facts!”
I just want to thank the VA for all that they do, is the system perfect no but they have gotten 100% better I do my part to stay healthy the VA does their part and the rest is in God’s hands. Have a blessed day stay healthy as you can and just so you all know I pray for you all at the VA system.
Right on! I really like this reply. I think a lot of people act entitled. I’ve had nothing but a good experience with the Veterans Administration.
I’ve been waiting for almost 2 years on a higher level review. All we can do is try.
After being repeatedly denied for toxic exposures during Desert Shield/Desert Storm, I welcomed the PACT Act. I was required to refile, but at least I could be approved faster since so many items previously denied were now “presumptively approved”. It’s been 6 months since my reapplication for benefits. Still no action on “presumptively approved” exposures. It has been 33 years since toxic exposure with loss of work income and paying for treatments myself. Being “presumptively approved” means all they need to approve an application is an application for disability and a DD214. I called the benefits line and was told there was no end in sight because they didn’t know so many veterans were still alive. Besides the physical disabilities, I have PTSD exacerbated by being called a liar by the government for 33 years after volunteering to leave my position as a physician at Duke University to serve my country. Upon my return from the Middle East, I left Duke because I was so ill. I have paid for treatments for Gulf War Syndrome since my return. I will never get back the income lost by working part-time due to G.W.S., & I will never get back all the money I paid to treat G.W.S. I kept ALL my medical records since my return from the Middle East hoping that one day the government would admit: YES. There WERE WMDs in Iraq; we GAVE them the WMDs in the ’80’s to use against Iran; the U.S. Army exploded the WMDs when then spread sarin & cyclosarin gas over our own troops. I have a written log of the day we were exposed because I kept a daily log of activity for the operating room. Upon our return, I read the headlines stating there were no WMDs in Iraq & accusing President Bush of being wrong. I have never seen a newspaper headline saying President Bush was right.
The VA is making payments for medical care for illegal immigrants in ICE custody. The VA can provide medical care for illegal immigrants, but won’t pay for a tooth implant for my missing front tooth. I got to wear a denture for the missing front tooth. Veterans have a hard time eating with dentures. You’re not going to pull your denture out in the middle of a restaurant so you can chew your food.
The VA won’t even replace my lower missing teeths. They said that they can’t make a denture for the missing lower teeth and won’t pay for teeth implants.
I remember when I was a kid we were really really poor. However, my mother made sure she shared our food with our neighbors. Because as a good Christian lady, she believed in what Jesus said to love your neighbor and care for them. We could do the same… We may not be rich in dental care but we can share some insulin with a neighbor can’t we?
The time has expired. Better luck next year.
For those who got a denial as a new year’s gift, there is appeal’s hamster wheel of death. Before you hop on the hamster wheel, you get to chose your poison.
There is the supplemental claim where you go back to the beginning of the claim process with new evidence and wait 1 year for a decision instead of the 149 days.
There is the higher level review where you wait 2 years for a rubber stamp denial.
Finally, there is the Board of Veterans Appeal where there is up to a 4 to 5 years wait time to get remanded. Even with an approval, it takes over 149 days for the AOJ to process your claim.
The AOJ is a complete mess. It takes an average of 148.1 days to process a fully developed claim and 149.2 days to process a non-fully developed claim. There is only a one day difference.
The VA brags about the 149 days, but they don’t tell you that it takes just as long if you have all the evidences.
My dependent has not been added back as a dependant and I have missed months of payment for him eventhough I gave everything that was needed for him to be added. Processing needs to get better
I don’t understand why a person scamming the system has an abundance of benefits while people with actual disabilities and illnesses are denied healthcare over and over
I filed my VA claim for a rating audit on May 5 and they are still in the evidence gathering mode on December 29th. This is ridicules!
Same here filed at the beginning of May did their bs third party shrink eval at the end of September and it’s stayed the same zero movement
People need serious medical care fast ,since the claimants have evidances they can receive benefits in short time at list 60days
Too bad there is no urgency to complete legacy appeals. I remember near the end of 2021 when the Secretary announced mission complete with legacy appeal, but it is near the end of 2023 and the VA is no where near completion.
I also remember in 2013 when the SSA was approving a bunch of claim at a high rate to clear their backlog. The SSA Commissioner got his ass chewed out by Congress. The VA slowed their claim process and approved less claim in 2013.
Now the VA is doing what the SSA was doing in 2013 and approving claims at a high rate to clear the backlog. Their is no oversight of the claim process. Like the SSA backlog, their is pressure to approve claims to clear the VA backlog.
I am very pleased with the progress of the VA, claims department it may seems slow at times but all the soldiers/wounded,at at war ,Previous war conflicts,etc,etc we can’t all be the 1st ones seen .
To all the staff that are working on our cases no matter what State or Region. I want to thank you for all your help .
Sincerely: Kawatha Geter . Retired Soldier
Thank you shipmate (navy vet here. Term of endearment). I think we forget that. I have had nothing but great experiences from the VA. Especially if I treat them like they are human beings with shortcomings like the rest of us. Been stressful at times … But I Hope we are fair
Thank you for all your hard work, especially with the PACT ACT surge. I for one, was joyful to receive a 100 percent rating for my assignments coming in contact with Agent Orange. Happy Holidays. Retired USAF.
I filed for Asthma and Sinusitis in February under Pact Act passage. My C&P exam and Pulmonary Function Testing was not scheduled until October. Only after receiving the completed DBQs in November, I was notified that a previous claim for a pulmonary condition was denied over 30 years ago, and I now must submit this again on a Supplemental Claim Form. So, here we go again. I’m looking at another 6-8 month wait for a decision, on which the VBA already has all the information and evidence needed in which to adjudicate my claim. Veterans deserve better. The bottom line is, the system is broken.
“Each and every” is redundant.
I have been waiting 444 days for my claim since October 7th 2022. Nothing. I have submitted Priority Processing Request forms. Called many many times and even tried getting my local representative to look into it. The VBA is broken and someone needs to be fired.
I applied on Aug 16 after intent to file in May. I applied for 2 new and 1 secondary. I provided a DBQ Nexus and relevant medical evidence including articles from the national library all relevant tests for 2 of the 3 claims. I was upgrades to 100 % according to VA.com on December 21. My complaint is not about time or decision. In fact as compared to my first time claim which were all presumptive the time was much shorter (Jan to Oct) My gripe is that the claim was sent to QTC who tried to send me extremely far considering I live in a county with many hospitals doctors and almost 1 million people and next to a city with even more of both not to mention surrounding counties in the same ratios. After arguing I cut my travel time down by over an hour each way. I was sent to a nurse practitioner(who seemed to give me a very good exam) Only to have QTC call me the next day that I had to go back because I didn’t get 1 test because their machine was broke. Saving part of the story I went back and when I arrived they told me that the appt was canceled the day before because they didn’t have one of the machines not that it was broke. I had sent a copy of the test but it was over 6 mo old but did show a reading which would give me 100% in each leg. I asked them where in M21 or 38 the test had to be done in that period they said it was their co rules. If we are even going to waste money hiring these firms when a complete claim is filed then they should do their job. First increase the amount of outlets and in my area that would be simple because many of our medical professionals work for 4 hospital groups and have to accept the patients sent them from the home co. Secondly they should be made to follow M21 regulation in these encounters. My final complaint is silence that is what a vet hears for months and months It would be better if some king of time lines be presented for each step that after at least what the holdup is could be explained, I have had excellent experiences with the medical side of the VA but the benefit side needs to do better in communication. I guess because I was approved I have no complaint with the decisions. But If you want the same result the Vet must supply the info these people need so they should use your state or county VSO who really have no economic gain to get between you and the benefit side these private companies use a large amount of boiler plate which isn’t your story. Your doctor knows you and his office can at least provide the medical records about you read M21 and 38 on VA.com as they pertain to you and then present your case so things can go faster for you.
149 days seems to be a little fast. My claim submitted in October of 2020 for PCAFC with an appeal received by the VA in April of 2022 is still being worked. That makes the appeal over 20 months old and the claim approximately 38 months old far over the 149 day process time and no decision.
Sounds great. Hope you follow through. Have a Merry Christmas, or whichever faith you observe holiday season. Just waiting. Survived cancer this year, so compensation benefits will be nice, but I have already won.
This is a load of b*##$h!t! Hampton VA Medical Center is a bureaucratic cesspool full of absentee scofflaws who deliberately delay care in the hopes we give up and die. The HVAMC FOIA officer is the worst of all. Instead of providing Veterans the information they need to hold VA administrators accountable she attaches exorbitant fees fees for information that any competently run hospital would have in daily operational reports. And it the bland, say nothing excuses like the one above that perpetuate this insane bureaucracy.
Example: My PCM recognizes I have a degenerative spinal cord injury and referred me for physical therapy and massage therapy. When I get both together, it drastically slows degenerative progress, maintains the functionality that I currently have and reduces the amount of pain medication I need to take. Each referral is good for a year. Yet I get 10 visits, and the provider has to request more visits. The requests disappears into the VA and goes exactly no where. It takes minimum 4+ months for me to get more visits approved and most of the time I need to get my provider to put in a new referral. There is no excuse. I counted 21 “administrators” who have never seen me reviewing whether I need this treatment. Absolute b*##$h!t!
[Editor: The VBA, which processes claims for non-health benefits, doesn’t have any VAMCs. Those are run by VHA. Have you reached out to your VAMC’s Patient Advocate for assistance?]
I do appreciate you all looking to see if some of us older vet have the right to submit this claim. Some like me enter the service in the late 70th, so we may not have that full medical record present. But we still have the same type of ailments
I submitted several Appeals. The HLR found error’s. If the VA would tell me about the Error’s I could possibly get the information from my local hospital or I have it in my files. By know means do I want anyone from the VA to take this as a compliment. I want to help and after 25 years being Retired I think I have earned the right to clarification. I filed in 1997 Chronic Back Pain from Back to Back MP Competition’s in 93’&94, and hurt my back.. Retired Chronic Bacck Pain was noted in my medical records. My exit physical by a CW four also noted chronic back pain. After approximately 30 days I received a VA notification denying me VA disability. 2013, 2015, and 2018 I attempted to get help with my VA disability only to be taken down a dark road proximately three years ago, I met with a two star general and gave me advise on how to get my VA Disability started. So this is the first time I used the Rank of the 2 Star General. But really without using his/her name I have received wonderful treatment and by far 2nd to none follow up has been great. I just need to get to the bottom and find out what’s missing. As far as my back injury I. Have never missed one doctor visit over the past 25 years. I do have Chronic back pain and Blindness in my left eye. The VA sent me to a Optometrist when I have been seeing a Retina Specialist for years. I get injections every month in my left eye. The injection in my left eye is to keep what I have spread to my right eye/help with Migraines. Blurred vision, floaters, lightening crossing over my eye. The VA has helped but I’m rated at 30% for the migraines, Left Eye. The optometrist that the VA sent me to placed in his notes to the VA proper care. I will be able to see out of my left eye again. I told my retina specialist, and he wrote a letter stating that this is not true..
This is been submitted to the VA. This happened within the last three
Months. Thank you for your time and Merry Christmas.
I am very disgusted with the service the VA ha provided us vietnam veteran. Somehow someone at the VA has changed my. Email address without letting me know. Since I do not know what the new email address is, the obnoxious techs refuse to allow me access to my reord. Consequently the other half of the obnoxious application process will not assst in completing my application. Too much self praise and no support for us dying Vietnam Vets. HELP!
You keep touting the speed and efficiency of the claims process yet mine has been stuck in limbo for 2 years now and no one is able to provide any information outside of what the claims status website comes from. This has been an ongoing issue with all of my claims since I got out almost 15 years ago to include the VA saying I owed them 15k for no reason and no recourse in disputing it. It is to the point now that my only option left is to get my congressman involved.
Right now my claim is approaching 4 years and I still don’t have an answer. Now the VA is sending me to a Nurse Practioner outside of the VA for further evaluations. All my health records are with Hines for Diabetes, Neuropathy, Open Heart Surgery, Hypertension, Ischemic Heart, sleep Apena, etc,and I still don’t gave an answer from the VA. It’s a tragedy and someone is not doing their job for the VA.
My retirement pay is less than what I was told that it would be, I wasn’t giving any documents telling me WHY the amount was lower than I expected
You’ve granted benefits but at 0 dollars awarded.
Give us that statistics.
I’m so disappointed in the Pact Act as a Vietnam Vet.
I think claims that have all the medical evidence should be completed in less than 60 days since it’s a claimed filed with all medical evidence
Been waiting forever it feels like. Claim submitted on April 17th 2023. C&P exam 17 September 2023. Exams uploaded on 19 September 2023 and moved to decision phase same day. Sitting in the NWQ since then. I get no answers from the VA of what the hold up is. This article with it’s average claim decisions does not fall into your 149 days. My claim is 247 days in the VA’s hands.
Hi, I filed 4 Feb and just got my response 2 weeks ago. My last VA appt for this was in Sep. It will come and best wishes for a positive response!
It can be daunting living without help, but we aren’t without help. They are working as fast as they can on millions of claims. All good things come to those who wait I’d say in this case. Me personally, I’ve been waiting since March 2022 and only just did half of my C&P exams a week and a half ago. The PACT Act claims surge really seems to have thrown a spanner in the works though. You got this, just a little longer.
I need help. You haven’t paid my dependent in 5 months and I’ve tried to make payments on my account but you guys have taken more out then miss counted my check. Been happening since July
Thank you so much for everything you have done. I really appreciate all that you do and have done.
I was a combat eng exposed laud noise and being leaving with ringing on my ears but denied not service connected? I do have sinusitis better yet miss diagnose by va what I have after going to a private provider is chronic sinusitis. So tell me why waste my time with a va doctor telling them my back hurts and they just give me 800 ibuprofen since 1998 drinking kills the pain and the next day all over again. Some doctor don’t believe what we say or takes notes at all.
Sounds good thank you very much sir ma’am merry Christmas and happy New year god bless you all.
Whatever the VA is trying to sell meaning. I would bet everything in my life that maybe 1% of the record number of vets that are applying for CONDITIONS OF AGENT ORANGE will get approved for these benefits in my opinion are bring approved. .Why do i assume this. We have ,been denied twice since june if ,2023. When your military .records show that from 1964 to .1966 that your job duties are in.passenger service stationed. inm ELMONDOLF, Alaska and .you work with agricultural very .closely to make sure that the. ……. C123-C125 coming back .from Vietnam after dropping .very dangerous herbicides .(AGENT ORANGE AND OTHER .DANGEROUS CHEMICALS) TO .MAKE SURE THESE PLAINS .ARE Completely CLEANED AND.. CLEANING THESE SPILLS .UNPROTECTED WHILE MAKING. SURE THAT ALL .AREAS ARE CLEAN before they…. these plains can go back .into action. And your my medical.. conditions are( here .goes the list) Legally blind wet .and dry macular deg disease,. .. .. deaf (Air Force), Gerds, type 2 diabetes, PTSD ,SLEEP APNEA,….. COPD, SERVICE .Connected KNEE INJURY ,NOW ..WITH AMPUTATION , Kidney .disease, hypo and hyper …hypertension, prostate cancer…. in, remission, liver disease,congestive heart failure, heart attack the lust is endless. With only 20% rating and service connected issues are gearing and knee and fighting for his life
DENIED, DENIED, DENIED STILL HAS TO PROVE A CONNECTION. I AM ASHAMED OF THIS COUNTRY. YOU GIVE AWAY FREELY TO Other Countries and forget about the veterans. Its horrible.
I submitted a claim in November 2021, still waiting for decision. Four C&P Exams, Supplemental, submitted digitally for faster processing, expedited status and still can’t get someone to look at it and make decision. Status “Reviewer reviewing documents.” Been that way since June 2023. Don’t tell us how great you are, just do your job. Media has been all over me to cover the story but I told them to wait until I get a decision. 1151 Claim, VA admits fault, med malpractice. Waiting for me to die so my wife will become frustrated and give up. Not going to happen. Might as well process the claim!
The PACT ACT is a joke! My husband is 100% disabled vet who has cancer and dymensia. We have been waiting for an appointment with neurologist for OVER A YEAR.
This another bunch of HYPE! Stop blowing smoke up my behind. My last three submissions for compensation were denied. Including the pact act. Wow what a country we served.
I was given a 20% rating then pushed to 80% after they awarded me the PTSD impairment but hold on it was a mistake and now I’m back to 20% and asked to pay back all the money ey but still was diagnosed with PTSD and mental health problems that was given en to me by 2 of the VA doctors but if I want my rating back I ha e to find a doctor that will write a letter saying that this happend during my service time also have lung problems now from getting double pneumonia twice and almost dieing in basic and hurting both knees all this on file at Ft Dix NJ and still denying my claims LORD help us why get us to defend the country then throw us to the dogs when we need them cause man the things you have to do when they need you is so.etimes deadly
All VA is BS. Why does a vet who never saw combat.. never left the states..no physical problems get 100% but my grandson who’s suffering gets 10% for hearing. He has issues with leg/knee. Back problems and more. He was in Syria.. marines. He saw terrible things that a kid just out of highschool should not have to be a witness to. But our military likes them young so they can mold their minds.. right? He’s not even 30..so sad.
My husband was against any of our grandkids joining the military as he suffered from Agent Orange. He fought for years to get benefits. He passed from it thinking his country turned it’s back on him. AFTER his passing they granted him 100% . He could have used that to help keep him comfortable.
That was 11 years ago..and the same BS is still happening.
I thank you for your service ma’am, and I can relate because my father passed with complications from agent orange with a diagnosis of leukemia and never got approved for it until now December 26, 2014 he left this earth feeling betrayed and now agent orange is approved. I put in a claim in 2018 got a docket number. Then after four weeks ebenefits is saying it’s with a judge and been with the judge first week of December but…
Sorry about your Grandson and Husband, but where you served doesn’t matter. If you were injured in service you deserve to be compensated. You were a soldier 24 hours a day and Uncle Sam is liable
Im disabled combat engineer 84 to 87 I write poems and lyrics and sing on starmaker
I was stationed at Fort Ord Light Fighter unit in Monterey California and I am suffering from neurological disease. I also suffer from PTSD. My wife is also suffering with Tythroid disease as well. Please let me know if I am eligible for Pact Act. My year of service at Fort Ord is from 1987-1990
I have been told that site “varelief@usa.com” will give me $180,000.00 for a payment of 1% to an address in CO. Please reply. I don’t want to get scammed. They are using VA government signage.
[Editor: That is not VA. The federal government will only use a .gov address.]
Majority of the claims were denied 2013-2023. How will it change in 2024??
I was recently awarded 60%. This is the first time I have applied for disability. The percentages add up to 70% but they awarded me 60 %.
What is that all about?
[Editor: A disability percentage is not awarded by addition, since no one can be more than 100 percent. You can learn more here: https://www.va.gov/disability/about-disability-ratings/ or Google “VA Math.”]
I’m a Vietnam blue water vet, and you talk `149 days for a claim and mine took14 months and all got denied, what a bunch of Bullsht you in the VA put out.
[Editor: 149 is the current average.]
How do I apply for my benefits. Where do I get help. Who is the person I should call or text to talk to about my situation. I need help now. Please let me know what to do to get my benefits as soon as possible. Thank you for your time and help.
[Editor: Please click on the blue words “apply for benefits” in the story above.]
You all need to get a lawyer. Cameron law firm took me from 70 to 100 percent and I still had injuries the VA declined before when I had sent them the appropriate paperwork. I wanted these appealed as well to prove a point and I just got the first of these approved by the VA today (another 20 percent).
My VA hospital and dr are better than any civilian one I’ve had but the VA claims and appeal process can be crooked unless you have legal representation
Cameron law firm takes 20 percent of back pay from. What they win for you
I think if you followed m21 you could do them faster. I submitted a second claim with 3 disabilities on it along with this came a DBQ and Nexus statement a copy of the medical evidence. It went to the first stage on Aug 16 and was sent to QTC on September 3 but needed to be sent back because of wrong paperwork. They set up a C&P exam that the DBQ covered and was provided buy my own Specialist (whose medical evidence was used in my first claim although because all those claims were presumtives no DBQ or nexus was necessary. e was also a national fellow in my disability. I go on the C&P exam the next day I get call from QTC that I have to go back because they need an ABI test and the machine was broke so I didn’t get it.I told them I sent this rest in with my claim(it show 100% for each leg) They said it was over 6mo old I asked where I m21 that was a problem I can go on with my problems with these people but the largest was I went back the exam was canceled because the facility didn’t even have the equipment to do the test. My claim went to decision 30 days ago and with the evidence from the 3 C&P exams A PDQ etc it should be simple to make a decision. Now one of the disabilities I submitted will not be one next year the other 2 will be and one should rate 20% and the other 2 100s I need 1 10% to be 100 p&t. because I am 94 now. I explain this because if the dedicated a few examiners to completed claims and not spend good money on outside firms for them then those claims would be done quickly since all the proof of military records are already in the record and only Nexus and medical info needs to be determined along with % requirements. I am not at the 125 days but my case hasn’t even been assigned to someone to determin it
When a Veteran files a claim he or she should be provided the name and contact info of the person handling their. This method would personalize one’s claim and may lead to a much more productive claim process. Presently, all one can do is call the 800 # where individuals can only tell you what they know but looking at your claim. They have no authority to do anything else. Please, please, please make the claim process more productive for all as previously described. Thank you for listening.
TRANSPARENCY! This is “suppose” to be the platform for the Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (Jon Tester). I agree, there should be a way to identify the person handling our Claims!
800 number is a waste of time majority of the time. They have attitudes or don’t know nothing. They work from home and at their own pace. They try to complete your call in 7min to reach quota. Over half have attitudes but not worried about being fired and don’t get fired, but when you try and squeeze a little information about your claim then they concerned about their jobs.
Thank you for your Service as well, it’s very much appreciated.
Fighting for exposure 11 years please help.
I filed over 10 years ago and has been waiting to go to a judge on appeal. What a time I get the benefits I deserve I’ll probably be dead. Nice work VA
the vallet service at columbus va Ambulatory hopspital ,
is outstanding and free ,
the crew is fast & friendly … efficient & caring ?
On tree dif meds for hips and knees yet denied all VA meds
I don’t believe that the VA is looking out for combat veterans like myself one bit. I have been denied so many times its sickening. I have major breathing issues from desert storm and still get denied for breathing issues after I filled out my burn pit registry. My record shows I received a groin injury in the Marine Corps and I’m still denied. The VA is not my friend. I hear of people getting 80 or 90 percent for almost nothing. I have major issues with ptsd and was given 50 percent for it. In my remarks it said because I was not disheveled or suicidal. Not sure why you toot your own horn so much? No wonder so many vets have to get a lawyer or representative. This email is a joke
Hello Joseph, I’m a Vet also. Sorry to hear about your problems w/ the VA. I am having then exact problems w/ the VA. I go to the VA in Ann Arbor Michigan… AND IT SUCKS!! I keep telling them that they should remover the sign on the top of the building that say’s “HEALTH CARE” because as far as i’m concerned I have not got no fcking care of any kind. I am on my 4th primary care (NOT) doctor. This 4th doctor seeems to actually seems to care, but i’ve been going to the VA starting 2003, and the care from the previous 3 doctors (NOT) have totaly fcked ME up mentally physically & mentally!!!! I am 66 years old, Thats not all that old, and right not, asn of 6 months ago I could walk just fine, and now I can stand up and wal without using something,as I a cain or walker. If I was standing with my damn walker, and someone took it away from me, I would just fall to the ground!!! And in order to stand back up, I would have to crawl on the ground to something I can grab onto just to stand up.
I truly bellieve that our fcking government has told the VA to find some way to SORRY but kill us off after we retire at 65 years old. to them we are worth nothing to the country anymore. especially now when thay have to start to pay us our Social Security! And they are talkinf about taking our Social Security away from us. I guess they have forgot they thay are NOT PAYING US, THAY ARE ONLY GIVING OUR MONEY THAT THEY TOOK, BACK TO US. It is our money, and now they are trying to wipe us out, so they don’t have to give OUR money back. Also are about to try to take our guns away. When that starts, they are going to find that NO ONE will ever give up our weapons. When that starts, I will follow our Constitution and exercise my rights. The 2nd amendment is there for just for this. It covers many thing, but the main reason for the 2nd is there for is when, or if a United States Government HAS GONE BAD!!! And that is exactly what,WE, THE TAX PAYING CITIZENS OF THE United States are dealing with right now! These rich bastards in our govenment have completely forgot that they work for us and not he own bank account. IT’S ALL GONE WRONG, AND NEEDS TO STOP.
Thats about is. If this does not make sense to you I guess the I’m trying to say that I agree w/ you and I’m just venting. GOD Be w/ you. Good luck and God bless. FYI… In order to write this to you, I have to disclose my name and e-mail, So I expect a visit from someone from the VA or FBI. So you might as well have it also. Jerry L8R Pal, Fight, but never give up !!! VA SUCKS!!
I’m very happy with the VA and their staff at least until they cut my pension,
Over 10 years I have been waiting for a claim! What is the problem I am having? CAN’T FIND MY MEDICAL RECORDS! So this is my fault???
Couldn’t find my records for years. Went to my Senator’s and they got them for me. Good luck
I am trying to get a Veterans Educational Benefit Certification
Form
I need information
we have had the worst service from Dr’s yanking our chain and not getting serious about actually treating you. Our denture broke 5 times. W asked several times fr a new denture. They just dont care! I feels like a government conspiracy for population control. This is the California loma linda VA . Did you know there is a news article that they hired a convict for murder as the manager down there? I almost DIED in the covid ward because they withheld the good medicine until my wife threated a law suit. They treat us like we are a freeloading burden and they cant wait for us to die. I gave my life for this country as a 30 year LIFER for this garbage? Makes me wish I had never stepped foot in the military.
I received a letter stating that three additional claims i filed for were deferred but the evidence is in my my medical records that i have these disabilities
I received a letter medically retiring me and corrections made etc. W/ dfas or va ..w.e. owing me 40% retro pay back to original date of separation.i got a response in 60 days or less..somehow 40% pay and 70%sc (w deps) pay are the exact same for past 16yrs!?!?? and somehow I still owe 660.60?? for un recouped sev pay?? Doesn’t make any sense!! I’m sorry but if I owed them anything why wasn’t it pd in full from 08-12 when the other payments were taken out and why am I just now hearing about it and MOST OF ALL – why am I getting shafted!?! If they would’ve couciled me at ft.drum back in 06 instead lying about EVERYTHING I wouldn’t be in this section leaving an unsatisfied experience. I’m owed 16yrs retro pay according to one letter and another letter saying as of 6/6/23 that I get NOTHING? And still owe 660.60 for sev pay?? Something isn’t right all I want is what they said that they owe me for the corrections that they made and approved of
[Editor: By law, you cannot receive DoD severance pay and also VA disability compensation. It’s one or the other. If you’ve applied for VA compensation, then you will have to repay DoD (from your monthly VA comp pay). Once that is complete, you will receive the VA compensation pay.]
I received a letter medically retiring me and corrections made etc. W/ dfas or va ..w.e. owing me 40% retro pay back to o.d.o.s. & somehow 40% and 70% sc with deps. Are the same amount for past 16 yrs cause all the nmbrs are the exact same.??
sorry but it .doesn’t make sense. They made the mistakes they made the corrections and they approved it all and now that it’s time to pay me it they are rejecting it ALL!??
What about appeals I have 1 that in February will be 3 years old and in August my other appeal will 3 years old one is for an upgrade and the other is for a correction on retro pay.
I’m in the same boat
The va is sht.sorry u have to go through this
I have every piece of evidence for my common law marriage, and keep getting denied. Since July, this year, another frustrating denial after denial. To get my disability took 17 years to go through, so who knows what’s really going on there?
The VA disability system is always an adventure and often full of hoop jumping and appeals to get accurate disability ratings.
I was on an AF flight line and we were not given adequate protection for our hearing. I was denied a rating for hearing disabilaty because I no longer have an eardrum in my right ear. I am grateful for the cochlear implant but fail to understand that the complete removal of an eardrummm is not a disability?
Denying most Claims is quick and easy. Recently got denied even though my C&P exam clearly showed an increase and even though I was previously 100% and then lowered to 90%
Also got 0% from PACT
What’s the point?
Someone must review this claims before sending the letters.
Majority of the claims filed were denied 2013- 2023. Will that change now for 2024?
Hang in there bro. Don’t give up!!
I myself am sitting at 90% and was denied C&P even after tests revealed that I stop breathing ~60 times/per 2 min.
That last 10% equals an additional $1000.00/mo. As long as your not allowing the claim to expire, you’ll be compensated with back pay once the appeal is approved.
In the mean time, consider other things you might be eligible for. (Ex. Burn-Pits, etc.)
Good Luck!! and Merry Christmas!!
What amount will the 24 benefit go up when your on 100 percent disability? Thanks.
58 YEARS OF TRYING TO PUT IN A CLAIM AND TOTALLY IGNORED, FINALLY GAVE UP TO THE LIES
VIETNAM VET HAVE BEEN IGNORED FROM START AND ARE STILL NET TREATED AS THE OTHER WAR VET
Exactly. My husband was a Nam vet. Agent Orange took him 11 years ago. He fought and fought for benefits.. AFTER his passing they granted him 100% . BUT he died thinking his country betrayed him.
Mr Miller;
I would like to thank you not just for your service, but for your 58 years of trying to help fix the broken system that at times seems to only see us as a number that needs to much work to actually fix. I’m only a fellow veteran that thanks to the men who served in Vietnam was given the tools required to fight and win and survive when it was my turn to deploy. Because of the horrible reception you men got when you returned home our country stepped up, and made sure we were properly welcomed home. Thankfully my entire deployment lasted only 6 months. The vast majority of that time was spent pounding sand once again I thank the vets that came before me for that decisive win. I’m sorry that all I can offer is a simple thank you from an old Cavalry trooper, but I assure you most of us even the gwot guys have never thought of you as anything less than one of us. In most cases one of the best of us.
are their amu programs that help vets with their home mortage?
In progress, Got paperwork in,and received notice approximately 3 to 4 months later.Grreat Job !!!
Spokane Valley, Wa
Thank you for the approved first part of my claim ! It was a great help in the time of my health needs!
I am proud of my service to my country !
May God forever bless our country.
My wife of 65 years died on friday, the 15th of December. Am I entitled to any assistance for her death?
Sorry for your loss… was your wife the veteran?
If so the VA will cover about $230-$300 for headstone!
My claim has been in for over a year!Please get it done so I can know what to expect!
Need VA to provide BETTER updates on pending VA Judge claim cases. My claim to be reviewed by a VA Judge has been open since August 2021, with no action. VA cannot (WHY????) even provide an estimated date of when this will occur. UNSATISFACTORY….why does this take so long?
Listen people all you have to do when you send in your paperwork you send it in to the regional va not your local va i went from 70 to 100 in 1 month
Exactly. And congrats brother. The VA is only going to help those who truly put in the footwork and get things documented and PROPERLY filed. They got my increase done in a month and I just heard that for the remainder I either needed to submit extra stuff or just tell them I wasn’t submitting anything else and once I said I was done BAM it was all good. Using a service officer (DAV, AmVets etc) helps too honestly.
Have the PACT Act disability claims taken priority over all the claims that came before it?
What about court hearing claims and appeals, where do these fall?
I haven’t found any solid information about that
God bless all VA employees who serve our nation vets
Merry Christmas
Cook
USN ret
Vietnam Era
I was dissapointed that my “Aid and Assistance” was denied!! I felt some income was added that was used for funeral services for my husband should have not been include; ie: LIFE INSURANCE.
The reason for a quick turn around is most benefits are being denied. The raters are clueless because they don’t want to read the documents that show the service connection. The C&P quacks are getting kickbacks to lower ratings. Why do the veterans have to fight to keep their benefits when the illegals get free handouts? The VA is broken in a million pieces. The unethical guidelines are killing veterans from terminal illnesses and being denied benefits. This is absolutely criminal.
The patient advocate system in the VA does not work, the advocates always advocate for their bosses, their employer, never take the side of the veteran patient. There should be a system outside the VA who are not afraid of being fired for helping a patient???
My brother was discharged in 1991 he served in the Gulf War – due to wrong codes entered on his discharge papers he has never received a penny in service related compensation nor any PACT ACT compensation. He is a disabled Veteran who served in the Marine Corp . He had a recent Kidney Transplant on 8/20/23 and had become homeless during his healing process . I’m his sister and have tried my best to ensure he’s not living on the streets or his car .
He has waited a long time to see relief – when will he see his $$ from 1991. The casemanger he has is really overwhelmed with cases that I truly believe my Brothers case has been overlooked – so much red tape and political bureaucracies. I even filed a Financial Hardship form to see if the Judge can grant him some relief NOW- it’s been since 9/2023 no response yet – medications out of pocket costs alone eats up what little he gets from SSDI – medical bills would cause anyone to have a panic attack.
Please Help him now please he’s recovering from the transplant but the STRESS of the lack of financial support is more than overwhelming.
The errors on his discharge from 1991 was recently corrected in 2018 after fighting through all the paperwork.
The government owes him a great deal ??
He should contact a local DAV representative to file everything for him. Having any service officer prepare the paperwork such as DAV, AMVETS, VFW etc always goes faster. Usually anyway. Not necessarily always.
Look to the list of VA Accredited Agents in your area. They are not part of the VA office system and are usually more knowledgeable about the rating and appeals process. Nothing here discounting VSO’s in dealing with the local regional VA Office, but the VSO’s may not have the experience in moving a claim through the system at the higher levels, i.e., Board of Appeals (one judge) and Court of Appeals (three judge). The VA website has a list of Agents, which should show those in your geographical area. My two cents!
I am UI at 100% but my dental clinic stopped my dental care because they hired some denture specialists and wanted them to remove all my teeth and give me dentures, because they said it was cheaper, and they needed work for their new doctors. I am trying to get my dental care back on track, but while they had me cut off I lost two permanent teeth that could have been saved. Those are body parts to me, not trash. They are not supposed to be counting dollars with my care, just do whatever is needed. That is the way it was always before????
trying to collect evidence I used for previous claim to appeal with new evidence. the VA downtown seems to be discouraging me and not helping me get the evidence I need to support my appeal. I have proof of an earlier claim date but I need a page from a health record that is a doctors diagnosis from 1971 of what we now call PTSD. It is mentioned in a decision I have from 1999 but I need the original page that I submitted before. How can I get that please?
All of the evidence that you submitted for previous claims should have been uploaded by the VA Officer working that claim. Furthermore, you should have access to all Claim information, past or currently pending, viewable in the (I think) MyhealthyVet portal.
If you don’t remember your case manager mentioning where you can access your claim information, call/make an appointment with ANY case manager from the Department of Veterans Affairs Office and they will walk you through how to access your information. It’s very quick and very easy.
Remember!! Thats the Department of Veterans Affairs. NOT the VA Hospital or the Clinic.
Yeah, this is false!! You guys are very slow!! I already had my exam months ago and still no answers. I have called several times with same answers! This is unacceptable!!
I applied (again) for my benefits and again I was denied. I was informed that am a veteran however my injury that occurred while in training was considered non-service connected. I don’t understand someone with shaving issues or got shot while at reception can get a rating but my injury for which I was seen by the military gets denied.
I’m waiting 2 years on my higher level of review
I served 23 years in the Air Force. I got injured in Afghanistan in 2006 with most of my teeth blown out of my head. I lost my right eye due to the pressure of the incident and the VA has absolutely let me down. Claiming I have no dental benefits because I’m not 100% disabled. I don’t know what classifies 100% but no teeth and blind I’m pretty sure is close. Every Veteran deserves dental care and Congress must pass that into law for all our service members.
I’m a Vietnam vet. Air Force. Been waiting 5 years now for a judges decision on my agent orange claim. The VA here is great. They have taken good care of me.
You should be eligible for dental if that is what your service connection is for. Email me at Clara.Czerwionka@VA.gov so I can try to help you navigate this.
On March 6, 2023, I requested higher level review of my claim. On June 6, 2023, the VA send me a letter that included the line “During their review, the higher-level reviewer identified an error that must he corrected before deciding your case.” Still waiting for that status to change. How long does it really take to correct an error?!?!?! I’ve had only Radio Silence from the VA. I guess I am part of the backlog that’s going to keep expanding and contracting, according to this disheartening news story. File for all your earned benefits, Veterans. With luck you may get them before you are dead.
[Editor: Claims that have been decided are not a part of the backlog. You can read the monthly Appeals Metrics reports, here: https://benefits.va.gov/REPORTS/ama/ ]
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE Mr. Hasley, find an attorney (or VSO) to help guide you through the Higher Level Review!!!!!! That “During their review, the higher-level reviewer identified an error that must he corrected before deciding your case…” BULLSHT is code for “they are trying to find EVERY possible way to deny your Claim!!!!” They are not working in your best interest! DO NOT TRUST THEM; FIND HELP!
The VA screwed me while in mental health care at Mather hospital Sacramento ca I was denied PTSD benefits.
The information that you have provided is good, but I do believe that the VA can do better for all veterans and not just the few elite members that are treated like royalties, the continued popularity practices provided for only a very few veterans must stop, all veterans should be treated equally regardless of where they live or what they look like, I demand fairness and equality to every veteran who has served this great country, thanks sincerely all veterans.
In total agreement with your statement.
We did not wait to serve this country , so they should not allow not no veteran that served to have to wait for their benefits that they so rightfully deserve .
This is just a slap in the face of “Legacy” so called “backlog” veterans, adding more to the LOG. I have an appeal from 2014, which started in 2009, until I filed for the poison water contamination and my claim file..the whole file was sent to Kentucky. Deny, Delay, Deny til they Die!
Wow just unbelievable how veterans are treated . They keep saying they can’t find the paperwork and so many other excuses- Mental Health issues are a concern for many –
Lots of money for illegal aliens and the Ukraine. Not so much for Vets. They closed our local VA clinic last year. This is why no one trusts the federal government anymore. Our government agencies have been politicized and corrupted.
As a veteran who served our country with pride,having a family history of service with my father and three uncles, one son retired and one grandson currently serving, the service to our country is very important to me and my entire family. We appreciate the service the VA has done to be with us and care for us when needed. God Bless you all and God Bless the USA.
What about DIC applications
Like most Vets I’ve been fighting to get my benefits. I was told when I got out not to claim anything cause it could delay me being released from active duty. I was also told that I would no longer receive any kind of benefits from the VA. It wasn’t until 11yrs after being discharged I found out about filling for disabilities. The VA is not gonna tell ya about anything you might be eligible for that’s for sure. I am now fighting to get my rating from 60% to 100 and it’s been nothing but an uphill battle. Title 38 of the CFR code is the standards which the VA uses to rate veterans is the guidelines the VA uses familiarize yourself it’ll help.
The VA provides services to Veterans, not great services but okay at times. Why in the world would the VA help process illegal immigrants and their cases if case loads are so backed up for Veterans? This is what happens when politics come in to play.
Well with out va health care I would be dead & so would some of these whiners sooo. Suck it up butter cup maybe if some running for office in this country did not make crying & playing poor me victim so fashionable life would be better in this country God bless our country & the va & staff.
Yeah, I sucked it UP! The Poison water down at Camp Lejeune, soooo how much Sucking did you do, was it Agent Orange? Because you sound Brain damaged. Over a million people at CL, but all over the US, military bases..abandoned or not..are contaminating millions citizens and denying it. All of those people do not have what you do..VA and staff ??
My husband applied for years for benefits and was denied every time finally in december 2017 he received 100% disability rating service connected but he died 3 months later only received 3 checks..I received DIC benefits..is there anything concerning the pact act I need to apply for ?
I filed for PACT and for disability and have not gotten a word back from anyone!! It is sad how us Vets get treated for fighting for your country in the US ???
Pact act.i was at ft Gordon spring of 71. it was sprayed agent 0range 67 69.i was wondering if the spray lingers
I would be up the creek without the VA.the health care is what’s keeping me alive.
What is being done about the appeals process? I have some that are 4 years old.
All the vets with long back logged cases, if your case is solid it is going to be a really nice pay day. I understand money now is optimal but it’s not as if you will lose the time when you are waiting for the decision.
If it takes 3 or 4 years, so be it. My 70% decision took almost 5 years but my back check was over $76,000. It will pay off eventually, just hang in there!
What was your process? Did you have a court hearing?
How are you defining the use of the word process. What exactly does the term process mean?
Sad the VA gives us the run around my claim was denied because not service connected. Now do appeal not sure after reading comments below. Sad the US veterans are short staff have to use a call center that staff are very limited in giving you information on your claim. My husband RIP knows I tired. Best of luck to you all.
Up my pay!!!!!
But overall, you guys do a good job
Thabmnks for your hard work
Up my pay!!!!!
Yep! It has been long enough. I know VA does not do that. You work with what you have and I have always appreciated that.
I thank you for your efforts!
My original claim was filed in January 2012 and is still awaiting final resolution! A “presumptive” disability means nothing to the VA. They are totally incompetent. My appeal is still pending from May 2020.
Thanks to all the hard working claim coordinators at the VA! The negative comments are from fools that probably didn’t file correctly. I have also learned that you do need to be proactive, ask questions and be patient.
You guys are doing a good job processing claims
I was honorably discharged in 1972. Not eligible for VA medical benefits because my income is too high. I was not told that back when I entered the U S Army. Kinda like when FDR told us Social Security would not be taxed as income. I love my country. The Government? Not so much.
Just a flat out lie, as you put all pending claims on delay after delay, do pending claims are now severs backlogged an raters are inexperienced an in watched!!! Resolve the backlogged claims first!!!!
I filled a claim with the VA I was awarded disability of 0% I was assaulted while on active duty at Aberdeen Proving Grounds Edgewood MD taken off base to Hospital got scaring on forehead almost bled to death I want to apply for a upgrade can you help me
I realize there is a horrendous amount of claims to be processed, however some of us applicants and our county/parish VSO’s feel the contract employees handling interviews are incompetent in the service they provide. The nurse at my facility told me I needed to be councilor for PTSD. The psychologist I was interviewed by told me that unless I was with a person who passed I could not have PTSD. So this is to say that all the field medics, nurses, who attended to the wounded, soldiers who listened to mortors, and gunfire night after night can’t suffer from PTSD. To this day smell of hot blood, burnt flesh, certain smells of the oriental foods bothers me, when going out with others I always have to face the door. As I was leaving the psychologists office I told him “good, you won’t be taking any of my guns”. Hiring of people like this DOES NOT HELP the Veteran. Oh yes, this guy was never in the service he said.
What is being done about appeals? I have an appeal that is 2 1/2 years old.
At the very least communication from the Board of Veterans Appeals to the veteran, should be more transparent and up to date. As of now, I get a letter or email occasionally that says the VA is still working on my claim.
Same here, but I have never received any kind of update by mail or email.
VA uses a lot of smoke and mirrors to deny vets…I know first hand and so do many other vets. Believe nothing you hear and half of what you see.
Thank You from a Vet
I’m a 90% disabled veteran. The biggest problem I have with the VA is how long it takes to process travel pay reimbursement. I’m still waiting on September. I can’t afford to go to appointments sometimes because the pay hasn’t been reimbursed. My income is severely limited.
What about back pay can you address this topic. I submitted a claim foroney owed for plus 10/years..single payment but payment with one dependent is what iam required by law of congress to receive..
My appeal has now been waiting for 3 years to be heard by a judge. THREE YEARS
I hear ya. Appealed claims wait times are ridiculous. Not to mention when you get in touch with the BVA, they have no information to give you. It’s damn shame.
I did fill this section out??? I’m not doing it again. Why does this always happen???
I got a $1.00 increase, big deal. That’s really suppose to help.
I am a United States Marine Corps veteran. Rated at 80% service connected. I had to retire from my last job. Due to my disability. I was told that that. Because of this. I should file for an increase in my rating. Having it increased to 100%..But I filed for tdiu and was denied. And when I asked about the PACT act. Due to my deployment and my direct involvement in operations Desert Shield/Storm. And the liberation of Kuwait. I do remember going to a couple burn pits. But my vso. Said unless I have brain cancer. This doesn’t apply to me. I’m not sure what to do. My VA provided psychologist that I have 1hour sessions with. every week for the past 6years. Says my increase to 100% should be automatic. Due to being forced to retire. Because of my service connected disability worsening and could not see it getting any better in the foreseeable future.
I got an increase, big deal, a $1.00 increase
I can attest that the PACT claims seems to handled fairly quickly however, I filed a mixed claim (increases/new) in Jan with all DBQs being received in Jun/Jul, but I’m stuck waiting for the unspecified “secondary action” (which I can’t even find in my file online.
I think the VA is doing an excellent job handling these hundreds of thousands of claims. Us Vets appreciate all of the hard work, God Bless!!
The main reason most vets don’t go to va for medical
Is, the employees and workers treat you like your still in the military
Order you around tell you to shut up or be quiet??
That is so disrespectful to our vets and a lot of vets refuse treatments.
It does not matter how much money you throw at health care and disability benefits.
Nothing will change until
Employees treat veterans with respect.
Why was my first claim not granted for SMC S Housebound! The first decision was on 06/14/2023 and it was missing the VA Form 21-2680 which they receive it on 06/03/2023. The RVSR did not mention it period! The second decision was on 10/11/2023 and again it was missing the VA Form 21-2680 also the DRO said Favorable Findings (You are Housebound). Here we go again because the DRO (Higher Review Officer) miss it also! So what’s going on with the VBA!!!!!!!
I have a claim that is over 125 days!! My back pay is still waiting for a Judge to render a decision!! A believe mine is a Legacy claim! A very old claim!!
Thank You, Thank you, Thank you..
Thank you so much for the update.
Your hard work and desire to help vets like myself is greatly appreciated. Wishing all of our veterans and the VA staffers a happy and safe holiday and great prosperous New Year, God bless !
Thanks for the update information!!!
We veterans need help with some issues including disabilities and serious service connected injuries!!!
Thanks
finally someones beginning to show some care iam a black navy man i been trying to recieve benefits for at least 45 years now.still waiting.
Why does it take months to re-put a child back on?
I went to a small VA center for help. I was told before I could apply I must first go to a doctor pay $250.00 cash bring back the receipt and the process begins. I did not have the cash. I was told I was not eligible then
[Editor: Applying for disability compensation online is free. You can do it yourself at va.gov, or visit a County/State/National Veterans Service Organization to assist you. These are also free and you don’t have to be a member.]
Thank you so much for the update. Thank you for your dedication and service.
Since you claim it only takes 100+ days to get a claim through to a decision, I would like to know why I have had to submit my late husbands by fax, 4 times during 2023? I have been told after the third submission that the VA had all the paper work they needed, at which time I had been asked for my banking information. This week I was asked to resubmit his information for the 4th time. I was told by letter that you are working on this claim. This has been on going for a year. My paper work proves my husband had Ischemic heart disease, approved by the PACT Act. I also submitted a letter and genetics test proving on both that the cancer’s he had was NOT family related but, by his military service!
If your late husband served in Vietnam ischemic heart disease should be auto disability as mine was due to agent orange. I did not apply but have 100% perm/total
I wish that VA could figure out the Caregiver Program. There is something very wrong with the program. I am starting my fourth year for my wife caregiver to be admitted. I was told reapply because my claim may have fell thru the cracks. I feel that causes depression anxiety and ptsd to increase. My care at Northport is the best. Never had a problem in 17 years that can’t be resolver
Has my comment met approval
Stop charging a 20yr veteran for health care because he is not almost during.
I totally agree about the caregiver program, I have turned in every Dr. report on my husband’s heart, and everything related to his health,including a recent stroke, but despite the fact that I am doing everything for him, he is still being denied the Caregiver program.
Thank You the young veterans need this
I can’t say enough for all the hard work in every department of the VA system, I want to wish everyone of you a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year,
The VA has come a long way since I got out in 1973, and it’s folks like you that care and work so hard to have achieved where we are today, not only are we recognized, but now we are taking care of.
Please keep up the fight for us veterans, and we will keep fighting for you
I have been trying to get on Agent Orange for over a year & getting no where. I was in Viet Nam in 1968 Long Bien need help I have been taking heart pills about 4 months after leaving there
I’m proud of the work that the VA is working hard to process our backlog claims because veterans like myself deserve all the help we can get thank you
Your attitude is most reassuring to me as a Veteran of the Vietnam War. Keep up the good work.
Thank you and Merry Christmas.
My son in-law served 8yrs. in the navy as a nuke Eng. he suffered from chemical burns, hearing loss, and injury to his left wrist. When he EAS he wasn’t given his ID card. There for he cannot use on base privileges nor apply for any health care. He separated with an Honorable discharge, and in good standings. Is there any help / Guidance you can give?
His contact info
Nick Pienta
How many online applications did they lose?
I will be retiring soon and is already receiving health benefits. I was advised by a retired veteran to seek assistance by applying for benefits. The process was not as difficult as was previously explained and fair. Thank you for all that you are doing to help the Veterans. I would like for the organization to be able to reach out to more Veterans in need. Also, to educate soldiers and make them aware of these benefits available to them.
This is very important information. Thank you for supporting veterans. Remember to apply for benefits. If you don’t apply you don’t get things we deserve.
What is the update on the camp Lejeune Justice Act pertaining to contamination of the water supply and claims for vets
Meanwhile your burning out your employees with VBA with mandatory overtime with no end in sight.
We are very fortunate, I’m a Vietnam veteran, and all who served anywhere or any time
to have the compassionate and helpful Department of Veteran Affairs doing what you do for us!
The military is an experience of a lifetime.
God bless America and all Veterans.
Maybe apportionment claims will be taken care of faster now!
Pretty much everything va says is false. I tried to get my disability raised and was flatly denied. The people who do the claim paperwork, don’t realized what someone actually feels in pain and discomfort. I can not work due to my disability and got flatly denied from SSDI as well. I just barely survive.
You have 1 year from your VA decision date to appeal. Just because you got denied doesn’t mean your claim is over. Even if you lose the appeal you can ask for a board to review your case.
The SSDI is not VA related but I believe you have a few months to appeal that decision to an administrative law judge. It may take a few years but you get all back pay if you get a favorable decision.
The VA has been doing a great job but you have to know your rights, the process, and you have to do a little leg work.
Mr. Kasprowicz, I tremendously feel your frustration and also don’t trust anything coming out of the VA. However, I must also agree with Mr. Harm in that YOU MUST stay vigilant! LEARN the process and make your appeals before the deadlines, with both the VA and SSDI!! Believe me, the waiting is hard, I know but you still have to do the work.
Great Job. Keep up the good work!
Veteran U S. Army -Military Police
I’ve been waiting for a law judge for a very long time. Is there an update on when this may happen my condition is getting worse with no help I just turned 70 old???
I too would like to say thank you for your work with my fellow veterans. It is not easy for the veteran or you who have to make the final decision on their disability. I am a Vietnam Veteran with a small disability. I am on the Agent Orange registration list. Merry Christmas to some and Happy holidays to all!
Thank you for your help!
A lot of smoke being blown here, at least from my viewpoint. My claim is over 7 years old and I’m still waiting for a decision.
Although an interesting article it does not address the reason for the high number of appeals.
On the day my husband finally received his letter of 100% disability approved, he never knew he got approved after awaiting 5 years as that is the day he died that morning. Many months later I wanted to refinance my house and obtain a lower mortgage rate but I was not approved for the Veterans loan as my husband had to be alive and widows do not have that benefit as they cannot get any loans under the VA! I really think that was terrible on the VA’s part to disqualify me after 50 years of marriage. Yes we did get the back pay benefits for those 5 years he waited to hear from the VA, but he never received a check in the mail going forward as I was not qualified to receive his 100% monthly benefit since he passed away as it dies with him!! This should be changed and the widows should be taken care of n be able to get a VA loan!!
Hire competent personnel to review the claims. The entire experience I’ve had with filing my claims has been almost comical as to the mistakes that have been made. Don’t say that you help develop our claims. The general impression is they are trained to deny until we give up.
Thanks for all that you all do. My husband is a veteran and we are currently still waiting for a decision but we have faith that the VA will ensure that he get the benefits he deserves. Happy Holidays
Why do I have to pay for my medication copay I don’t think I have to only make 1635 dollars a month and have lots of bills please help me thank you.
I would like for you to give an update on how long it takes for service members to get an appeal hearing by a judge. I’ve been waiting to hear on when I’ll be put on the docket for over 270 days and no response on when I’ll receive any notification of any timeline. There should be a deadline on when the Veterans Administration should have service members on the docket and date.
I hope so. It’s been three years since I put in for an appeal and not one word to me or my lawyer. Be nice to hear back from the law judge.
Thanks to all of you who work for the VA. I appreciate all that you’ve done for me and all veterans that participate.
Why is there such a backlog on BVA claims? After being told the best way to do an appeal is to let the BVA decide it for you and it will not take as long. I have been waiting since 2018 for a decision. That is when it was finally forwarded to BVA. My mother has since passed.
Years ago, well the VA was not to great. The past 20 plus years the VA has taken great care of this veteran. The folks in Little Rock and North Little Rock are to be commended. As a vet and 100% as well as homebound I have been through the process. I get some priority on the count of I am old. As of late the system has seemed to grind to a halt. Last Spring the VA found and error on their part and sent it to be corrected, seems simple enough, over 8 months later it still sits there now with dust on it. To me it seemed cut and dry, the documents are there and very clear. Why in the hell am I gripping? The VA has kept me alive and continues on that path for as long as I do not mind the meds or the knife. Thank You
This is good but you need to focus on all the appeal cases that have been pending for years.. Not to take away from well deserved Vets for Pact Act but these appeals need processing as well faster..
maybe put some of those people on the caretaker program… that would be nice since i was denied 14 months ago and still have no clue where im at in the appeal process… not really sure why a vet who cant use the toilet, tub, dress, cook, take meds or make any decisions without help got denied in the first place but here i am… and here my wife is STILL not working because my broken ass is useless!!
Sent my information in quie while ago no response
We appreciate the work that the VA does.
Thank you and your staff for your dedication and hard work. We realize there are a lot more claims than normal and many more coming. Even though many of us don’t think things are moving as fast as they should, we do recognize without your team’s hard work, nothing would happen at all.
So thank you and please keep up the good work.
Great work on reducing the time, but denying most claims (at least initially) is not reflected in these numbers. Also, at some point the VA should show the number of Veterans who take their own lives, while waiting for an Appeal to be heard, not a claim to be processed. Help End Veteran Suicide!
Thank you for the positive update. I know it will encourage Veterans claimants. Well Done.
This is my 3rd filing for my late Husband’s service time served 1960 to 1966 On the USMC.
Thanks for all your help VA. You guys have really busting your humps, especially with Pact Act claims this year. Your support to the veterans is definitely appreciated.
That’s funny I’ve been waiting for 365 days for as of December 21st for the VA Administrative Law Judge in Washington DC to make a decision on my claim with supporting evidence,it shouldn’t take that long.
Quit lying to us Vets, My an appeal claim has been waiting to be sent to judge for 18 mos..
I’VE BEEN DEALING WITH THE DVA FOR DECADES AND BEEN VERY SATISFIED WITH ALL THE DIFFERENT SECTIONS, EDUCATION, HEALTH, AND COMP TO NAME A FEW. NO FEDERAL AGENCY DOES MORE FOR THE VETERANS. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK.
Roughly 40% of claims are backlogged over 125 days. And don’t take credit for a completed claim by granting a 0% for one condition and deferring five others. What are you doing about claims that are 4-5 months over their suspense dates with no action?
Would be nice to get a breakdown on the types of categories of claims? How many are simple getting dependents added or readded? Those should be easy to complete especially if they have all the documentation needed even if they don’t ask for it. 149 day average? I am about to finish on my 6th month on the dependency readd. Prior two adult children were less than a week for the same reason but at least I received notice prior to cut-off so no benefit cut-off. My original claim took 18 months over a decade ago so much improved. Yes, there have been claims expansion with first Vietnam veterans and now the PACT Act but this last one was known for months in advance of being finalized in Aug 2022. Now, you think you need more processing employees over a year later? You started out leading the wave by getting those already in the system to get VA appointments to review history but somehow you got lost and that wave has overcome you from the claims.
[Editor: John, VBA has been publishing this information each Monday for years:
All reports: https://benefits.va.gov/REPORTS/
Characteristics of claims: https://benefits.va.gov/REPORTS/characteristics_of_claims.asp
Weekly data and sortable buckets: https://benefits.va.gov/REPORTS/detailed_claims_data.asp
Annual report, then click “compensation: https://benefits.va.gov/REPORTS/abr/ ]
My supplement claim was filed in June 2018, and denied in 2019. I to the Board of Appeal before the court and the judge found 4 errors and sent back for remand back in 9 September 2022 and I still haven’t heard anything.
BVA filed October 2020 for hearing how much more time on the docket can I expect
Having access to where a particular claim sits in the backlog would be extremely helpful to my mental health. I’m at 20 months with no idea how much longer I will wait. It’s awful.
What am I eligible for.
I take thyroid pills every day my primary doctor said this could be service related.
I have been applying for benefits for Asthma since July of 2021 and skin conditions as a result of exposure to agent orange. I have been turned down three times. I’m very frustrated as a result of these turn downs. My name is George Taylor Any help would be appreciated.
[Editor: NEVER post your SSN or sensitive information on the internet! I have removed it from this comment.]
Perhaps you can help. In Nov 2022 I got married. I was unable to add her as a dependent initially, because I couldn’t get into va.gov. in the spring of this year, I was finally able to get into the website. I filled out the information for adding a dependent, or so I thought. Turns out, the VBA wants an explanation as to why my wife’s SSN isn’t on the application. Easy! She’s never been issued a SSN, as she isn’t a US citizen, has never been to US, and we live overseas 100%. After resubmitting the paperwork with the explanation, it’s been since 24 July, complete silence from the VBA…
Great job ??
I just waited 24 weeks for a decision on my claim and Thank The Lord, I got my benefits claim approved! I originally applied in 2003 and was denied; however, at the urging of my Primary Care, I opened a new claim last summer and Viola! Success!
Thank you to the Veterans Administration personnel one and all.
I have already made a claim to have my benefits increased from 80% to 100%. I applied for this increase priouvously but was denied
Sounds rosy. I first applied and have been reapplying and appealing since 2020 for benefits.
VA admits my exposure to Agent Orange caused my problems. VA grants me zero percent compensation. Plus, I still must pay a copay for every VA hospital visit.
Yes, I finally hired an attorney. Not holding my breadth.
Outstanding
The VA has to properly screen the C@P examiners. I recency submitted a FDC and it got denied solely based on his poor and incomplete exam. The VA should have discovered his rush job and faulty mistakes, but rather weight the evidence solely on his statements. VA went with the C@P exam. Now it goes to a higher level review. This never should have happened. This is why there’s such a back log!!
So not true they have been sitting on my claim since August of last year. Now im 3 days from eviction after i lost my job 2 months ago.
VA has saved my life before, and take good care of me now. Ty to all VA employees who make it all possible. Happy holidays everyone
The DAV unit out of Valparaiso In. certainly helped me to get my VA benefits! I was heading for homelessness and the VA has upheld their part Thank you very much!! I would also say thank the Jacki Walorski VA center in Mishawaka In. is a great place!!
Thanks for the article. Unfortunately, claim has been waiting to see a judge since SEPTEMBER 2022. Hopefully, things get better.
I am 70% disabled. How do I apply for a higher percentage?
Excellent report. Thank you for all your hard work with our claims.
I have been denied 6 times in the last 3 yrs, so the va is not working for me, system is broken for some like me””’
That all sounds really nice, but I have been waiting for over a year for my claim to be settled and paid. Calling the VA has gotten me nowhere. The status of my claim is still “pending review”.
Thank you for all your help
I am a retired VBA claims examiner. I spent 18 years working VA Disability claims. I was never in a supervisory or management position. About 5 years before I retired, someone with 30 years of claims experience said “There will always be a backlog because people need to get their points.” A current regional director told a large group of claims examiners “There is no teamwork here; you are competing against each other”. I could go for hours, but the bottomline is until their is a culture of teamwork and VA managers act like public servants( not self servants), the backlog will never go away
iF CLAIMS ARE ONLY TAKING ROUGHLY 149 DAYS SO Y IS MINE GOING ON 781 DAYS IT IS IN APPEAL PROCESS BUT FOR MY INITIAL CLAIM IT TOOK 16 YEARS SO FOR MYSELF I DONT BELIEVE YOU
[Editor: Appeals are not claims, they are disagreements with the decision on a completed claim.]
There is no $100,000 Death Gratuity for those survivors older survivors whose spouses were active duty for 20 years or more of honorable service? Is there any news of this benefit, possibly, being enacted? Just wondering if there are any new Bills proposed for this.
Thank you.
Your doing a great job just applied for hypertension /high blood press. 12/14/23. All went well great folks at VES waiting for my %results. Nam vet. 66/67 happy holiday to all at va
Seriously? My claim has been “on the docket” /”Awaiting to be sent to a judge”/(Appeal status) since May 18, 2022. STILL haven’t heard anything from the VA.
[Editor: This means that your claim was completed and that you disagreed with the decision, making it an appeal, no longer a claim.]
Well, the PACT Act turns out to be an empty promise if you have hypertension that is controlled by taking several drugs to keep it below stroke level. The VA will tell you if you can control it even if you take 3-4 scrips to keep it down then they will tell you it’s service connected but award you ZERO compensation The only way a vet with hypertension can get compensation is to stop taking your meds and let your B/P go way up near 200 for systolic pressure. Then if you don’t stroke out you may get something. But maybe not.
Josh Jacobs that’s bullsht about giving veterans the benefits that veterans deserve because I can’t get shut and I was abused in boot camp by the DI
I’m been through 3 evacuations and I’m 15 months and waiting on an initial decision, a long time in suspense.
Is there any updates timeline on legacy appeals?
I know I myself am above 1,000 days.
Sounds like a lot of activity at the VA. More transparency into the claims process would go a long way towards easing the anxiety being experienced by the applicants who have no idea of how their claim(s) are progressing – the current VA website ‘window’ into this is almost meaningless to us vets. In closing, I’d like to thank the folks at the VA who are working a very difficult tasking…we appreciate the effort.
Good Work, We definitely need it THANKS FOR YOUR HARD WORK ?
Good Work, We definitely need it THANKS FOR YOUR HARD WORK ?
The VA has again denied every claim I have filed, I am surviving on just SSDI, and facing homelessness again
Y’all are doing a wonderful job, as a Disabled Vet I wouldn’t know what I would do without the Benefits I receive . I would like to know about burial insurance though, something affordable it just seems I don’t have enough money to pay for life insurance and I do as many my age need.again Thank y’all for your Commitment to we Veterans.
You’ll have done a great job for us old 100% Disable Vietnam Comb Vets. the only thing I wish you could do for me is I have been trying to get me a little trained newborn or young trained Papillon a female or a male SERVICE DOG for FREE. I have had 11 different types of major cancer all over my body and I have only one right kidney and I have to wear a urinal bag the rest of my life and I have been on Dialysis for a little over 14 months, taking treatments 3 times a week 4hrs. each time. I want a little Papillon SERVICE DOG to help go to and from of my both VA Hospitals in +
Augusta, Ga. and help my Wife with me going to different places. I just can’t afford to pay out $3,000.00 up $6,000.00 that different web sites want because I am on a fixed income and pay that kind of money for one. I hope you can help me out getting me a Little Papillon SERVICE DOG Thank You Ernest Wayne Toney Sr. MERRY CHRISTMAS.
Thank you for your hard work to help us out here. If it weren’t for you nothing would get done.
Have a happy holiday.