VA is transforming the way Veterans learn about and apply for compensation benefits through a new video tutorial highlighting the digital Disability Compensation Benefits Claims tool, released earlier this year.
Built with Veterans, for Veterans, the Disability Compensation Benefits Claims tool is a development process that incorporates user testing and human-centered design principles. The tool gives Veterans more control over claims submission and represents an innovative leap forward in VA services.
“The Disability Compensation Benefits Claim tool lessens the administrative and paperwork burden for Veterans, and shortens the processing timeline for benefits claims,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “This innovative tool, along with the companion tutorial video series, represents VA’s commitment to providing Veterans quality service through digital transformation.”
The accompanying five-part video tutorial series is accessible on VA’s Office of Information and Technology (OIT) YouTube page. The tutorials describe steps Veterans can follow to complete disability compensation claims applications online using the new digital tool. The videos feature:
- An overview of the online tool’s user-friendly platform, and its efficient functionality that streamlines the claims submission process.
- Log-in instructions for starting the process of filing a disability benefits claim, and how Veterans can track existing disability compensation claims.
- Instructions on how the tool automatically checks the Veteran’s record to find out if there is an active intent to file date already pending.
Visit the full tutorial series for instructions.
Click here for more information about disability compensation.
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That’s how “YOU” see it. DIFFERENT STROKES FOR DIFFERENT FOLKS. Just be all ‘YOU’ can be and let’s let other Veterans be all ‘THEY’ can be..
Being denied compensation 5 times for hear loss due to use ing generators , was given hearing aids . I was told that my hearing lost was not bad enough to receive compensation. Huh , what , what did you say , can you say that again. My wife and co workers are tired of it . And so am I , I have no idea on how to appeal there decisions.
Perhaps as I tell the truth after working with and around the VA rating system since 1988, and have personally dealt with every possible situation including documentation, PEB trials, appeals, COVA, TDRL, the PDRL, the VFW, The DAV, and VA employees and rating exams of every sort, this website is refusing to post any comment I make. I know the truth hurts, and they can’t stand it. So they sensor like I was in N. Korea. Which leaves me more certain that ever that this whole thing is just another example of censored and ‘adjusted’ Vet comments to follow the current party line.
Can someone please tell me how it’s legal or even ACCEPTABLE for all of these so-called disability claims that an individual can be discharged from service…then provided a disability rating granting them a disability monthly payment for the rest of their LIVES and then turn around and DOUBLE DIP by getting a full-time civilian job that is in conflict with there so-called injury??? For example, a Soldier with a back injury who volunteers as a local fire fighter and is seen wearing heavy equipment to enter burning buildings without any impairments. A Soldier with a disability rating who is selected to be on the TV reality show “Naked and Afraid” who seems to function without any impairments but is exposed to multiple elements and physical obsticals. A Soldier with multiple herniated discs who works as a Paramedic responsible for performing CPR (which is extremely laborious) and lifts heavy patients on a chronic basis without any evidence of impairment. This blatant fraud and the failure of a system with no checks and balances is costing America BILLIONS in disability benefits. I’m sick and tired of Soldiers filing frivolous claims for PTSD but then boost about watching violent movies on TV. Some of you failed to pass PT, others hated their deployments because you could not get promoted or disliked your chain of command. While others had relationship issues while deployed and believe it’s the GOVERNMENTS fault for all of it. It’s time to expose this corrupt fraud for what it is. You failed to achieve 20 yrs. of service to be awarded a proper military pension that you KNOW you would have to wait until the age of 60 to collect. So, instead, you create a bogus medical claim like J.G. Wentworth and claim, “It’s my money, I want it now” syndrome. SHAME ON THOSE OF YOU ABUSING THIS SYSTEM…SHAME ON YOU.
The author is a RETIRED SSG following 23 yrs. of QUALIFIED service who won’t see a F**King penny until age 60.
The VA needs to establish a process to ensure Veterans are getting a accurate c&p DBQ. The doctors are lazy and they lie. They don’t fill out the DBQ and they don’t ask you all the questions. They just put what they want. It needs to be a neutral party at the c&p exams at the VA or at locations they send you in order to avoid an appeal in a strong claim. There are too many strong claims going thru the appeal process that should not. The doctors gate veterans and will do all they can to file a negative report. Make the doctors fill out a complete DBQ because if not the computer will put No Answer provided and it will hurt your claim.
The website still allows for a rep to fill out the paperwork online. You can log in and track the status of the submission as the designee fills it out for you.
I only recently started a claim after finding my separation physical while I was tracking down paperwork for a VA backed home loan. I was in 10 years and my separations physical stated I had high blood pressure on page 4. Attached were two dozen medical reports that showed my blood pressure was high. I was never once informed by AF medical personnel I had high blood pressure, I was never treated for high blood pressure.
I had separated about two years later I went in because I was having nose bleeds and headaches and was immediately treated by my civilian doctors. I wasn’t in the mindset of service connection or ‘presumption of’ anything. I’m displeased that my doctors never treated me while I maintained worldwide deploy-ability.
I’m looking forward to the ‘process’.
Burn pit and gulf war issues need to be worked on.
I have applied to get into the VA health system 3x over the years, each time I get denied because I actually have a job and make good money and am turned down because of it. I am now getting close to retirement and would actually use the benefits in a few years but I guess I need to be destitute in order to get any of the benefits I was promised…
So tell me again what your so-called disability is? Clearly, you can demonstrate you can hold down a job, function in society and earn “good money” but yet you believe you are entitled to a disability benefit that will allow you to “double dip”??? SERIOUSLY? The amount of fraud you people are committing is sick, deplorable and unorthodox. Some of you have learned how to use a system to your fullest advantage. Sad!
The Salt Lake VA has been phenomenal to work with. I have nothing but positive and good things to say. It’s unfortunate I hear so many negative stories where veterans were unfairly treated or wrongly denied. I have two service connected disabilities. One was initially denied, but overturned on appeal. Don’t do it alone. Get representation and include everything!! The more information you provide the better.
I retired12 years ago with over 25 years of service. As I get older all the fun and games of military life are catching up with me I have tried to file for additional compensation with repetitive denials because there are no medical records. I was taught early in my career to “suck it up”. When will the VA and DOD realize career military wear out faster than others their age.
Joseph G. Reddick; you do not have to suck it up.
Have you called and requested to see your Claims folder? Also known as your C-file from the VA. You have every right to.
When a Vet files a claim the VA will begin a Claims folder/C-file which contains ALL of the information pertaining to your claim. This is all evidence for that claim. BUT..way too often what the VA has in your file verses what is suppose to be in that file may differ, be incorrect, or is missing completely. So you have every right to straighten your C-file accordingly. If not…this is why many Vet’s claims keep getting denied.
Do not give up, fight that VA!!
Tamie, Certified Veteran Advocate (NVA)
J. Reddick,et al,
No mater the vast amounts of propaganda the VA has been spewing in the last year, it is designed for public relations, recruitment and a general cover-up of the actual VA claims performance and how proactive they’re being on the average of 22 Vet suicides a day, some right in VA parking lots or even inside . Which brings me to the point. The first is you have no business filing your own disability claim on-line. You are in an adversarial relationship with the VA whether you know it or not. Through incomplete military records (that are often unreadable due to illegible notes, MASH type conditions or just never filed), the burden of proof is on you to PROVE your claim. Often C& P exams are incomplete or slipshod. As in the old expression, a person who represents himself has a fool for a client. You will instantly be out of your depth and the first denial often leads to years of appeals and frustration. I advise against using counsel remotely connected w/ the VA, even it is DAV, VFW, AM Legion etc. Let alone an actual VA employee. The use of an experienced STATE VA rep. if available is the closest I would get. Use of an NVA, WW Project, or similar including a private experienced lawyer (if you have an actual SC disability) will be the smartest move you can make. Get It right from the start and civilian Dr’s letters and reports are often the best thing you can have in a C-File. Removing bad info and adding all the right info is critical. It has to be the kind of brief that gets filed in a real court. You MUST be patient, honest, and have professional help to jump through the hoops. Never settle for less and never give up. The system will work, but it takes work,time and patience.So good luck, There’s no such thing as a free lunch, No matter who the Rep. is, you are going into a system that is long and hard, perhaps to make sure the truth will come out and it eventually will. .Struggling with the VA can seem to be an endless circular lifetime struggle but it will end eventually. You must be calm, organized, and have faith; don’t let the process drive you to desparatation or despair.
VA also accepts buddy letters / sworn statements from those who witnessed when you were injured.
I’m sorry, but you believe revisiting your military service from years ago should qualify you TODAY for a military disability because you were told to “suck it up”. You entered the military knowing the risks, including the possibility of death but you feel because of “getting older” your entitled to a disability? Not only is this logic troubling, it demonstrates that some of you will go to massive measures to receive a compensation you DO NOT DESERVE. As a Soldier, you should SUCK IT UP, that’s what makes a Soldier. What a joke. Let me guess, you want a disability so you can then go get a civilian job and DOUBLE DIP without anyone raising the issue of why you can do a civilian job that you claim the same job in the military is responsible for creating a “disability”??? Please explain?
Wow this is incredible.
In the determination order for the Vet that I care for one of the awards was Aid and Attendance. That was approximately 12 years ago and he (I) have never received a penny. Why? How do we obtain it?
You can try checking with your local county Veterans Service Officer or Congress person. You can also try calling 1 800 827 1000 and wait till your choice.is aive person and they can check. They will very likely not tell you. But will tell the Vet. Or he can be there with you on speaker,.or give them permission to talk with you. Good luck.
Stacie Avery,
Aid & Attendance is not an award, it is a Pension for the Veteran who requires the assistance by someone with everyday living.
Wow…12 years ago, I would be re-applying. Use (va.gov), use search box for Aid & Attendance VA Form. Print it off and will have to go to Vets Primary for them to fill it out and sign it.
Also use a Veteran Service Officer (VSO), is their job to assist the Vet with the claim, make sure everything is filled out and signed by the Veteran. Then VSO will submit it. Takes approx. 6 months for a reply.
Best wishes,
Tamie, Certified Veteran Advocate
I injured my knee on the ship and applied for benefits after I got out of the service. I keep getting denied because I didn’t have any follow-ups after I got out of the service. Well, I moved back to my home in Tennessee, which is in the hills and the closest VA hospital was over and hour away. I managed with motrin and ice packs for a couple of days then back to work, till the next time I hurt it.
Now, some years later, still no benefits and me knee has deteriorate so much I need a cane to walk safely.
Folks tell me to keep trying, but what’s the use, VA will say the same..right?
VSO’s are a waste of taxpayer money! New, more concerned, and efficient organizations like: Wounded Warriors, CVA, Fold for Honor and Code of Vets are doing a more caring and professional job taking care of veterans. VSO’s are controlled by local, and county governments, and staffed by people who believe veterans are getting a “Free” service, NOT an earned benefit! Close them all!
Claims are being slow walked, and classified/shuffled dependent on new and inappropriate classifications. Government employee’s need to be kicked in the butt, and made to work until their job is done .United States has been under a National Emergency designation since December of 2017, but government employee’s act like they are being imposed upon by veterans applying for their earned benefits!
The VA is in more disarray than at anytime I have seen. No uniformity of care throughout the country! Secretary’s being assigned that have no clue where to start, and money being thrown inti buildings and structure to continue the Dog and Pony show to make themselves look good!
Stop the madness. Get every medical hospital on the same page. Operate consistently and professionally. Request Congressional Inquiry, if you are not happy or see something wrong!
The VA is embarassingly bad with handling claims. There are combat vets and guys that actually deployed that get denied while guys that didn’t even make it out of bootcamp get compensated.
You are absolutely correct
I was approved for vocational rehab to be able to study something I am passionate about to be able to work in a field and make substantial income with gainful employment. UNFORTUNATELY, I been turned away 4 times already. 1st time the University was to expensive. The second time The technical school was very cheap; I was told these technical schools are for people with years of experience to brush up their skills or obtain a license? The 3rd time I picked a university to get a AA Degree in web development, since technology is in high demand and artificial intelligence in the future. I was turned away again and told even if I go to school for that I won’t be able to get a job in that field since they require 3 years of experience? The 4th time I decided to go to the cheapest community college for business administration to be told to submit all my paperwork again which they already have on file causing me to miss another semester. I then lost my patience due to my PTSD and tried to reason with my consular and expressed my feeling telling her since I’m not the same race as her, no gay like her, nor the same sex as her she discriminating against me and restricting my entitlements. I told her I been very patient and positive to do everything they tell me, it feels personal the rejection and didn’t wanna go above her head to her supervisor to file a complaint. She then got upset took me to the supervisor and started talking before I could say my side of the story and lying and putting words in my mouth. I interrupted her and told her everything she saying is a lie. I want to speak with supervisor only with no interruptions which he refused, He told me to I was better off finding employment than going to school. That moment I realized they don’t care about allowing me to use my benefits. I served my country been to combat and have to go through all this drama to get develop skills for the work place for better employment to be turned away. I kept thinking these illegal immigrants enter this country and have it easier than a veteran. I walked away because I didn’t want to seriously hurt these animals working for the V.A. I never went back and still struggling to find employment and the jobs available or low paying and definitely something I am not passionate about. I pray God have a better plan for me.
I was denied for aggravated conditions caused by my duties in the military after serving 20 years. Denial said my conditions were caused by a motorcycle accident prior to my second re-enlistment. So I dropped the whole fight after attempting 3 times since 1998. When I went in for my retirement physical in 1998, the doctor said I needed a hernia repair.. I had that done and he nicked a blood vessel.. my scrotum swelled up size of a softball and I could not walk or even get out of bed while I was on terminal leave. So my separation physical was just signed off and never completed.
Mark, so you believe what happened to you is a “disability”? It sound like a malpractice case. You certainly seem entitled to a medical discharged but your M/C accident was not caused by the military, why do you believe you are entitled to a disability payment for an accident not in connection to your military service?
J Montgomery,
Have you ever considered applying for a high level position with the VA. All you’ve left out is public praise for the current administration. The bigger the better. A slot on Fox and friends would do the trick. You seem to be extremally well qualified to pass out instant decisions based on little or no actual facts of other peoples service, injuries, or veracity. You seem to come to concrete rating and/or fraud decisions based on statements made by Vets who may be crippled mentally or physically on a social media site who are trying to make a case with no paperwork, representation, and background. This is pretty much how the VA rating system works and you should qualify for at least a senior rating officer. You are the one who should be ashamed of yourself. I hear there’s openings on the border stuffing little children into cages without their mothers.
My second VA claim has the wrong birth date on it and resulted in the VA creating a duplicate record. My new claim for additional compensation is been held up for a year so far. When speaking to people on the phone, we are told they do not have the ability to merge records but they are working on it! Really? Same old story, frustrate the Veteran and perhaps he will go away. We did that once, but won’t any longer. Already in the hands of my Congressman.
Seek legal representation, sometimes we must go for what’s going to be the most practical thing for us to do.
I have refiled many times over the years. I keep being told not enough or new evidence. I had my wife right a statement who has watched my issues get worse over the years. We constantly argue over my hearing loss. And back issues. I had a accident in the Marine Corp and they didn’t service connect my issues. Doctors have said over the years my issues are from the accident but nobody will put it on paper. I just had left knee surgery and in December they are doing surgery on my right knee. That’s just the beginning with my back and right hip acting up. What do you recommend? Thank You.
You just keep making it more difficult to understand, don’t you? Whomever you are, you must get paid enormous amount of money to confuse, defray and abuse veterans. We hope you enjoy your life.
I submitted my claim. It was denied. It was denied because they didn’t even bother to read the evidence. They had my service dates wrong in their reply and they said I wasn’t even stationed there. I sent my LES from the time I served and they get TWO YEARS to reply? That’s just insane.
Howard, you need to get a new rep. If there is a state office of veterans’ services in your state go there.
As to this story, I haven’t even bothered to read it. Why? The title says it all. This is just more of the VA getting rid of the human contact and support that is so important to all veterans. And the VA says there’s a suicide epidemic, imagine that. You’re a veteran in crisis and the VA can’t even be bothered with you IN PERSON to help out. Now, the VA is telling veterans to apply online for compensation. Great! No support, no help from organizations like DAV, so VA can deny more claims.
And what should we do Concerning the VA when we have been Intentionally deceived for five decades and are at the end of life? What does the VA do for a Vietnam Veteran and his dependents when his medical records were intentionally withheld after he was medivac’d out of Vietnam with a skin disease, and purposely told his medical treatment records were lost, and even while he was still on active duty? Were all ill Vietnam veterans forced to work for insurance coverage or was it just us exposed Agent Orange victims? I was intentionally and unjustly denied all service connection for any and all illness, injury, and diseases incurred in service. I was unjustly denied access to and deceived about my medical treatment records. I was not assigned a PEBLO, even though I was a “CODE: U”. I was treated dirty, repeatedly and intentionally deceived and misled, deprived of a lifetime of benefits including those for my dependents, and denied justice on every level. I was permanently disabled in the line of duty, and lost my family due to brain damage from Agent Orange Ingestion and a Tropical Disease. Today’s disabled veterans are guided on filing claims, while I was manipulated to not file!
I’ve always had prompt service related to my claim status, my AMVETS rep was amazing at framing and submitting my increase claim, you need to find the right rep, and a shout out to the American Lake VA hospital in Lakewood Washington, #bestcareever
I’ve always had prompt service related to my claim status, my AMVETS rep was amazing at framing and submitting my increase claim, you need to find the right rep, and a shout out to the American Lake VA hospital in Lakewood Washington, #bestcareever
I keep getting denied for an increase in my PTSD rating, even with new relevant information. I have a DAV rep, James Ferguson , and he is very hard to contact as he is the only rep in his office at James A Haley ..
Pleae advise!
You are absolutely correct….
Howard, what is this new “relevant” information. The last I checked, because I work in the medical field, there is no significant diagnostic test available to prove PTSD! PTSD rating are based on your interview with a healthcare professional and a behavior health assessment. What makes you believe you are entitled to an increase?