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Filing for VA disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the physical and emotional impact of a service-connected condition. From understanding the claims process to gathering the right documentation, there are plenty of opportunities for confusion or delay. Fortunately, if you’re a veteran living in Virginia, you’re not alone. There are resources available to you, including the support of our team of experienced attorneys, should your initial claim be denied.
Understanding the VA Disability Claims Process
The VA disability claims process is how veterans receive compensation for injuries or conditions that are connected to their military service. It can appear straightforward in theory, but it often involves multiple steps, detailed documentation, and frustrating results.
The first step is filing a claim. This can be done online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person at your local VA office. Veterans must provide evidence that links their condition to their service, known as a nexus. This usually includes service treatment records, medical evaluations, or a variety of other pieces of evidence.
Once a claim is filed, the VA may schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. This medical evaluation helps determine the severity of your condition and how it affects your daily life. Based on the exam results and submitted documentation, the VA assigns a disability rating between 0% and 100%. That said, the VA can use disputed results from a C&P examination as an excuse to reject your claim or reduce your benefits. Further, these C&P examinations are often inadequate and performed bv unqualified medical personnel.
The rating determines monthly compensation and eligibility for other benefits. However, decisions can take months, and it’s not uncommon for claims to be denied or underrated due to missing evidence or incomplete forms. That’s why it’s essential to take tremendous care during every stage of the process.
Common Challenges Facing Veterans During the Claims Process
Unfortunately, there are many pitfalls that can put your VA disability claim at risk. They can crop up at any point during the process, from when you put together your underlying case for compensation to how you respond after getting a result from the VA that you disagree with. Some of these issues include the following:
- Missing Documentation. One of the most common reasons for denied claims is the failure to include all necessary documentation in the application. The good news is that these are errors that can be fixed, particularly on appeal.
- Service Connection. An issue that is one of the most common reasons for denied claims is the lack of service connection. There must be a nexus between your condition and an event that occurred during your service. If you cannot establish one, your claim may be denied.
- Low Ratings. There are few things more frustrating for a disabled veteran than going through the long, drawn-out process of applying for VA benefits, only to receive an unreasonably low rating. While better than a denial, getting a fraction of what you deserve is hardly a reasonable outcome. The good news is that you can appeal in these situations.
- Complicated Process. There are numerous forms that must be filled out, and the steps that go into it are not always clear. Many veterans find it difficult to file a claim or resolve one without help.
These are only a few of the pitfalls that can upend a veteran’s claim for compensation. Regardless of the reason for a denial, Gang & Associates can help with the VA appeals process.
Tips to Strengthen a VA Disability Claim
When filing a VA disability claim, thorough preparation and strong evidence are essential. The following tips can help you build a claim that clearly demonstrates your eligibility and the severity of your condition.
Keep detailed medical records
One of the most important steps you can take is to maintain organized and up-to-date medical documentation. This includes records from both VA and private doctors, test results, prescriptions, and treatment summaries. Make sure these records clearly link your condition to your time in service and show how it affects your daily functioning.
Write a strong personal statement
Your firsthand account of how your condition impacts your life can carry significant weight. Use this opportunity to describe specific limitations, such as difficulty walking, sleeping, concentrating, or working. Include examples of how your condition has disrupted your routines, relationships, or ability to maintain employment.
Gather supporting statements
Buddy statements—from family members, coworkers, or fellow veterans—can help strengthen your claim by offering additional perspectives. These individuals can describe what they’ve observed about your symptoms and how they’ve affected your life over time.
Track your symptoms regularly
Many conditions fluctuate, worsen gradually, or come with invisible symptoms like pain or anxiety. Keeping a journal of your symptoms can help paint a fuller picture of your health. Include dates, severity levels, triggers, and how symptoms interfere with your activities.
When to Seek Additional Support
Navigating the VA disability claims process can be confusing, especially if you’ve been denied benefits or feel your disability rating doesn’t reflect the true severity of your condition. While some veterans successfully handle the process on their own, most benefit from getting extra support. Unfortunately, there are limits on when attorneys can take on clients during the early stages of the claims process.
If you’ve received a denial, a lower-than-expected rating, or feel overwhelmed by the appeals process, it may be time to connect with professionals who are experienced in the VA system.
The key is not to give up. There are knowledgeable and compassionate people available to help guide you through the process, explain your options, and help ensure your case is as strong as it can be, especially if you’re facing roadblocks.
Learn How Gang & Associates Can Help
If your claim was denied or you are unhappy with your rating through the VA disability system, you still have options. Reach out to Gang & Associates today for your free case evaluation.