I fought against myself and my pride, and finally 16 years after getting out I am rated at 80% and still have some claims going through. Don't be your own worst enemy, it isn't worth it. Get the help you need, because no one else will be your biggest advocate
Same here, it took me 24 years to file a claim. Even then I only did it because it hurt more watching my wife see me suffer. As men we are so used to just not complaining but the people closest to us can tell something is wrong. The MRI and nerve conduction test only confirmed what I had been dealing with all along regarding back pain and weakness and numbness in my legs. It actually felt good being able to prove none of this was in my mind or being exaggerated.
Something I would add is when you go to your rating appointment, you need to go in with the mindset of, What is the worst I feel in a day, with this issue. You’ll rarely go on a day you feel your worst. You have to be sure that you tell the doctor about your worst of that issue. Whether it’s physical or mental. And BE HONEST with yourself and that doctor. If it’s not a big deal to you, it won’t be to that doctor or your file.
I try to tell all my boys that are still in the infantry to make sure they get everything documented. First try I got 70%, working on 100% now. Made life so much easier when you get out.
Youre exactly right @Austin. Combat arms are the most stubborn in that category, but one of the most deserving. It makes life SO much easier when you arent worried about where your next meal is coming from.
@Shay Gordon, it is not a matter of needing or wanting. It is a matter of getting what you deserve. The VA makes the call if you deserve it, it’s that simple.
Well said! I was Infantry (11B & 11H) and was hospitalized at the transition from Basic to AIT (OSUT at Ft. Benning) with a dangerously high fever and a very bad Sinus Infection. Still waiting for my STR to come from being admitted to Martin Army Hospital. The National Archives is slow and, sadly, records weren’t yet computerized in the 80’s which makes paper the only route for recovery. I’m fortunate I was admitted to the hospital as opposed to just having gone to “sick call.” Oh yeah, I was lead squad leader for all of OSUT (only squad leader that never lost their leadership position), so going to sick call wasn’t allowed-Drill Sergeants made it known that anybody who tried to would be replaced and face consequences! Things were so different before Hipaa, video cameras and computer documentation… troops today have no idea. I’ve suffered through so many medical complications over the years related to my high fever, and chronic sinus issues (depression, anxiety and other things). Ignoring my issues served no one, and only caused me to lose out on being the best I could be all that time. I missed out on years of benefits that I should have been receiving, but that’s my own fault! I will eventually get the benefits I rightfully earned…
I love searching TH-cam for vets that help other vets. All this information lit a fire under me and I went from 10% to 90% in 3 months going for 100% this month. I just let life get in the way, kept getting fired and losing my shit on a daily. I did everything myself (wouldn't recommend it!) It taught me a lot about the process though so I help who I can. Countless hours of reading court documents and teaching myself the correct verbiage the VA uses. Good content bruh...
I’m just now getting out and been through hell so I didn’t even fight (70%). Everyone was saying “fight for that 100” but I literally had been f-ked over
@@majikk9123 that is correct. I literally did nothing..it was all referred via MH due to multiple incidents of mistreatment in my career field. I just couldn’t take the BS anymore-I told them they could just kick me out💯
@@ladyt9000 I hate you had to experience that while trying to do something commendable like serve your country! Anyway, this is the point from all your past experiences. You'll never be the same again and neither will I!? It took me over 15 years to file and when I finally took it seriously I saw progress. I'll help anyone that served because I know the shit they pull. I don't know your life personally but it's worth going for it...I personally won't stop until I'm dead because I'm angry as fuck...
@@majikk9123 I understand. I’m not angry just highly disappointed on the level of injustice within a justice system (I was a police and the legal situation overall). It made me not look at just my workers differently, but the career field expanding to humanity overall. I don’t think I’ve slept normally, without a nightmare in over 4yrs now
@@sowop248 That is a good question. I wish I had an answer. At least the payment is retroactive to the day I filed. I would give the money up to be cancer free.
Your health is your wealth. Thank you for your military service. I've heard that if you set foot on Vietnam soil, just to step off an airplane, you qualify for agent orange. Do your research and good luck. Hope this helps someone. And, THANKS for your service. Great video my man!
I’ve been injured several times during my 27 years reserve status. They never gave me an LOD but I always have documented everything and have had Tricare the whole time. I will definitely call DAV! Thanks for the tip!
Howd it go? I have been injured multiple times training for the reserves but have never complained while on drill weekend, so VA is telling me nothing is service related. However I have everything documented.
My last year of service, I got lucky and talked to a lot of vets that worked on base. They talked to me about everything I had to do and helped tremendously. I am in a way better situation now than I would have been with a wife and 3 kids.
So true! It’s helps with stress of the transition when you know you have some sort of support and income coming in. I didn’t even talk about the peace of mind aspect
My dad was a director of a VA regional office and kept telling me to complain about my injuries from jump school. He didn't say why and never told me about secondaries. For years I was stuck at 20% and I complained about tinnitus all the time. I didn't know tinnitus could be a service-connected disability, he didn't mention it even though he heard me complain all the time. I wish TH-cam was around when I was getting out.
I had to call my congressman and get him involved to get my disability. I was paid disability severance and received 0% rated. So when a couple years later I thought I would try a reserve unit to finish my time I was told I was too disabled. Ok I'm thinking 0% let me back in, I just can't run. Still no, go to VA and they say you're not disabled enough to get paid lol. So congressman called and said either let him back in or pay him. Magically rated at 40%. Now I'm at 70% because every time they do surgery it causes more scar tissue in my knees and ankle. DON'T EVER GIVE UP!!!
I definitely agree with everything you said. Especially do everything BEFORE you get out, I have some battles now that didn't make the claims and are out then decided to make claims. I say screw acting touch or deal with the pain, cause at the end of the day, NOBODY in the military will pay your bills for you. Get your worth
Went through BDD and in less than 5 months got my 100% P&T rating, officially retired 1 aug and by 11 aug the VA had my rating back, the program does work.
BDD = benefits delivery upon discharge. You start the process within 180 days of separation or retirement with the goal of getting your benefits paid out to you starting at or soon after your DOS.
I asked a friend if he filed any claims with the VA upon leaving service, and he said that he felt fine and wasn't going to file. I told him it's not up to him to decide if he feels fine, rather it's up to the VA to decide what your medical issues are. If it leads to compensation then good for you, if not then you applied and made the VA aware of your physical condition. Also, the VA is there for more than just reviewing and deciding claims. The VA can offset your medical costs with Doctor visits, treatment, prescriptions, hearing aids, and prosthetics to name just a few. Plus with the new Community Care Program, you can get an authorization for local treatment, physical therapy, and surgeries.
Thank you for this video, I've been separated for a long time and thought that everyone had ringing ears. Just shows me, you don't know what you don't know. I get headaches and struggle to sleep at night. And now it seems so obvious as to why.
Dude you are VERY helpful. I ETS'd last year February so im coming up 2 years now. Been battling with myself as to whether or not to claim disabilities from Afghanistan since i know first hand many other vets who have it far worse than me. But thanks to you I am going to start tomorrow (its Sunday today) and visit my local VSO who is 13 minutes away as well as a wellness exam with my provider. It just takes that initial step with honest intentions. Thanks again brother.
Check with your POA, VSO, or Accrediting Agent and determine which of your service connected disabilities are "static." If they are static they are permanent and cannot be reduced unless you file for an increase exam and the exam finds your condition improved or the Veterans Service Center (VSC) observes that there was a Clear and Unmistakable Error (CUE) associated with your being given the rating. The most common example of this is associated with character of discharge (COD). When a COD that does not meet qualifications for compensation were erroneously awarded a rating will get severed even if they are static. Summary: If your disability is deemed static and you have an honorable discharge you will not have a follow-up exam for it (with the exception of any CUE's or should you get a reduction due to filing for an increase and your condition being found to have improved). 38 CFR 3.327 (b)(2) explains the protections of static disabilities from routine future exams. Google 38 CFR 3.327 and you should find the list of conditions.
Thank you .Awesome video. I'm at the tale end of my over 20+ year Army career. Former Combat Engineer now something else. And have been hammering out my ailments, injuries, and aches and pains with the clinic inside and outside of post. And was that young combat arms Soldier that "sucked it up" for years and luckily in a position in my unit that gives me ample time to go document my past injuries and such. Great motivational video. Keep up the great work. Army Strong!!
Alot of this is easier said than done when your active duty and you will be discouraged about all this until your out and hopefully find a VA in whatever town your in.
I was like that..."Don't complain" until the pain was just to much to bare.I left the service with a 90% rating thanks to the doctor that f'ed me up.I filed again for my migraines,ankles and shins (which was documented while I was in but they didn't give me a percentage for it).Please my fellow vets...do not wait until it's to late.
I’ve been out 2 years and have severe depression, anxiety, ptsd, a hip impingement, and arthritis. The hip impingement has put me walking on a cane but I work a manual labor job. My hip impingement and mental deterioration make it next to impossible to keep up anymore. I need disability. I was active duty army, I mostly only went to sick call for shin splints… what should I do?
@@ewrgaming Make appointments to be seen by a doctor and tell them where you have pain.Also make appointments with a therapist to be seen for your anxiety and depression.Make sure to ask for a copy of your medical records and any notes that the doctor may have taken during the appointment.Make a paper trail first and then file for VA compensation.That's what I did.I made sure while I was in I left a paper trail and kept documentation of everything.
@@Unique2U05 Yeah I didn’t leave much of a paper trail unfortunately. That’s why I’m working on making one now and the doctor’s notes are specifically noting that the issue was caused by the service.
Do the right thing friends, don’t push everyone to get a rating, not everyone should be entitled to nor deserves it. Those of us who have legitimate ailments, both combat and noncombat, were heavily scrutinized due to the malingerers out there making false claims. I agree that if you’re injured, mental and/or physical, you should seek the VA’s help. It should be for the RIGHT reasons friends, not a paycheck, but a rating for future medical care. Your honor is valued brothers and sisters, and thank you for your sacrifices! God bless!
Good info. Anyone that didn't tell you the same thing during your career (in current times anyway) set you up for failure. I hope everyone hears this loud and clear.
You’re right but unfortunately this is rarely spoken about until its too late. Thanks for the comment brother. Please share with other service members!
Tnx for this. I just had a heart attack and receiving care, one of our trailers hit my back too and bn on physical therapy and pain management. I’m just hoping to medboard. My ets is in 13months and it’s brought to start my process.
Couple of things to add to the conversation. I totally lucked out and got the best VA rep possible to help me with filing my claim. I was under the misunderstanding that VA was for guys that were tore up in combat, etc. I now have Bluetooth hearing aides that help me function considerably. I don’t know if you can shop for a VA rep, but at least ask around. Second, if you are nearing military retirement, get your medical jacket and keep hard copies of everything. Air Force acquaintance of mine copied everything out of his medical jacket every time he changed assignments. When he retired and went to VA and a considerable amount of his medical jacket had been cleaned out. Don’t know by who or why but he had hard copies of everything throughout his career. Made his VA experience a lot easier.
ive documented my sexual assault, and my decent into psychosis and an eventual diagnosis that caused me to be seperated. the fact i have my entire story in my hands, the fear of hearing that my struggles were not significant enough for a 100% would absolutely crush me
Listen I I have worked for the VA 9 years now and im also a Veteran. I'm telling you and begging you from one veteran to another please go and file and have your story heard and make sure you have a representative it is very important that you have a representative that understands VA disability law. I know it's hard to even talk about those traumatic events I'm telling you I understand please believe me but it is very important that you be compensated for what you sacrificed and what it has caused you. There are vso's and lawyers out there waiting to help you. I personally know someone who utilized a law firm called Jan Dils and they helped us Veteran get compensated every step of the way.
@@ddjj8 thanks for showing your support man. i got in contact with a vso and were going to talk more about my case later today. im anxious as all hell but im ready to finally do this
@@deepfriedicecream576 Thats incredible please keep me posted on the progress. Prepare yourself in case you run into any road blocks. Do not stop there keep going and be pesistent!👍🙏
@@DaleNAdams-mx4lt I did go through with the process and I used a local law firm to help build my case for me. A few days after I saw him, i got my appointments scheduled. I had one already and the psychiatrist diagnosed me with PTSD after I explained my entire situation. Tomorrow I have a C&P exam to see what my rating is. I encourage you to do the same. Search up lawyers in your area that will help you build your case, and if you get a rating you disagree with, they will help you get a higher one. If you win, the lawyer will take payment in the back pay you would’ve decided from the increase in percentage. If you don’t win, you owe them nothing. Good luck brother
Mike, First and foremost, thank you for your service! I always try to share the love with fellow Vets. Secondly, great video, great content and very well presented. I got out in ‘16 and I did NOT have these great tips available. To everyone watching the video, take FULLL advantage. Being a prior Marine, I was very hesitant at first and as Mike mentioned, once you’re out, you realize, you’re on your own. God Bless you, brother! Semper Fidelis!
@Papa Diagne thank you for the kinds words and thank you for your service as well. I have heard many stories like yours and it pains me to know that not every military leadership is sharing this knowledge to their soldiers, marines, seamen, etc. I feel honored that you find this information valuable. Thank you.
I’m always getting all kinds of different answers, but my service officer DAV was very realistic with it. Bottom line is with my disabilities, I just got a second knee replacement, have sleep apnea, PTSD, lower back issues, and I’m still stuck at 90%.
Thank you for breaking this down in a simple to understand way. I really appreciate you taking the time to explain the process when those around me would not.
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Truly, investing has changed my perspective on how one can succeed in life; working multiple jobs isn't the optimal way to attain financial freedom and unfortunately, we discover this later in life. Currently earn as much as 12 grand weekly and this has improved my financial life
Wow. I'm a bit perplexed seeing her been mentioned here also Didn't know she has been good to so many people too this is wonderful, I'm in my fifth trade with her and it has been super
I got out in 2007 and Noone even bothered to talk about disability because they literally thought if they didn't tell you,you couldn't apply for it.I didn't know until 2014 my injuries could even be claimed! I had to fire my PA and file it myself.Im now 60% and getting worse by the day and I'm really not looking forward to the fight to 100% because I can barely even work right now and I don't make enough to even pay all my monthly bills.
That hurst me to hear that. In that is the unfortunate reality we live in. We are hoping by spreading the word more vets can learn about it sooner in their career.
I am a retired Reservist (28 years). I am at 60% VA disablity. I did have some medical evidence from active duty, but for other conditions it was all from my civilian chiropractor. It seems that the VA does not understand that Reservists cannot make a medical appt and go to a military medical facility since we are on duty for a limited amount of time and do not usually see miltiary doctors for anything other and a 4 or 5 year physical or emergency. So how have other people addressed this challenge when making a VA disability claim? I am curious, please share your experience.
Hello, I have anxiety and depression caused by the military and I need to convince Mental Health to get me out of the military ASAP. My base is very neglecting in documenting me to leave the military. Please help me in getting out of the military
You are right my friend!!!! Dont do like us old soldiers did!!!! Wait 10, 20, or even 30 years to file!!!!! Then it's an uphill battle with VA!!!! JUST DO IT!!!!! I'm enjoying my 100% P&T!!!!!!
I must be the luckiest veteran. I submitted my first claim 10 years after separation from the military. Everything was documented and my XO officer and Command Sergeant Major made letters for me. 8 months later I got 100% P&T. Everytime I tell the story, most veterans don't believe me. I think the key is hospitalization. A lot of veterans fear hospitalization. But in reality, hospitalization is the best thing you can have on your record. I am not saying to seek hospitalization or do things to force a hospitalization. What I'm saying is that sometimes a VA doctor will recommend hospitalization and most veterans deny it because they have jobs or are afraid of being around other folks with problems. That's my humble advice.
You advised the DAV which I have used twice and all they did was fill out the forms and send them in. No advice or how to express what was going on with me and the second time I used them I got the same guy who extremely rude and basically told me to get when I had questions. This person was enough to send veterans in the other direction . I can only hope they were behind the scenes to help.your video was way more helpful then this guy was . Again thanks .
That’s horrible. I’m sorry to hear that. It would make sense that the service is probably only as good as the person working your case. There are a ton of other VSOs as well. The DAV just worked for me
Here is my issue. I have been out of the service for 35 years. I was a paratrooper and did 28 jumps over a 4 year period. Problem is I never have been on sick call for anything. Also due to horse play by some other soldiers and I was pushed into and fell off a building railing and 10 feet to the ground. I was unconscious in the hospital and they released me after a 3 hour stay in the hospital. Fast forward I am 63 years old and for the past 10 years I have been experiencing knee pain in both knees I had my doctor tell me it was arthritis. Every since I left the military I have had office jobs never did anything that put a lot of stress on my body. I am wondering if my knee pain was contributed to my military paratrooper jumping or maybe even that fall I experienced. I must say my time in the military my body went through a lot of stress from during PT in jumpboots to hauling heavy military communications equipment. I have always thought the military would turn me away and say old age is the reason for your problems.
I got a locked knee while in the service and actually had two surgeries for it but wasn't able to get any disability even though I jumped in and out of a semi truck all day. What actually caused me to go to the hospital was a injury on the basketball court. I believe that my knee was weakened or injured due to the climbing in and out of the truck. Is this actually claimable? I never thought about this until I saw your video. Aloha
For sure that is something that can be considered for a claim. The process would be you would file a claim for your knee. The doctor you see will determine the extent of the disability. If it falls within a range (percentage) of disability then that will be added to your overall disability claim.
I got a back fracture from a rush march, was documented and in hospital records, also suffered ptsd from abuse, the mental injury from this abuse has affected my living activities ever since. The sergeants of the company were also jagged, some got demotions, so in the legal books. Do you think i qualify 100 for fracture, concussion from physical assault, and ptsd from harsh uncivil treatment?
So if they are considered severe (affecting your abilities or lasting effects) then you will likely receive a high rating in each of the individual categories. They would then combine those categories for your overall rating. Not sure if it would be 100% but it would be a good start
I joined the army in 1981 and a month later I was diagnosed with perforated ear drum and was given a honorable medical discharge am I eligible for benefits? remember I had just started basic training only served less than 30 days.
The dumbest mistake ive ever made was not filing a claim when i got out the army. Missed out on over 100k. Now i have 60% va disability. They giving me problems on claims secondary to my ptsd. My back and ankle has gotten worse. Filed a claim for a increase. But was denied.
Most vets don't know its an option or the impact it could have on them later. Its much harder to come back afterword's and try to get the claims from what I hear. Let us know if you try again and how it turns out.
My experience.....I was awarded 60% in 2009...PTSD.....my lawyer filed SSDI & i was awarded that...we went back to VA & i was awarded 100% PTSD...my VA service advisor helped a great deal, as well as my psychiatrist....she was born in Poland....american Dr's ?? lol....
I tried to get physical therapy for my broken wrist and I wasn’t allowed to go. Luckily I had to go to the hospital so it’s documented. I never went to any doctors outside because I was worried about the cost.
If its not documented, can I still apply? I have many ailments now that I know is service related but I was being Mr. tough guy so there’s nothing to go back to. Even in civilian I did this. But today I am suffering. What should I do?
As long as your requests are submitted with proof and evidence, the VA should not downgrade you. I am 80 and now working on 90, then 100. Bottom line is your documentation and the ever important nexus letters.
downgrading comes with proof of recovery or if you fail to respond to any VA direct inquires. I dont forsee that being a major concern for you. You should be ok
So true that people loose their ratings. I work at the VA and very angry Vets come in frequently because they received a letter downgrading their disability rating. It is very sad when Vets are counting on those benefits to survive.
If you could do this, being as how you have an insiders knowledge, it might be helpful to list the top 5 reasons why they get downgraded, it may help some to avoid that situation. Thanks☺
Denise, I will be 55 at the five year mark, and my c file indicates that my conditions are static and no future exams. Is it safe to say i won't be called for a future exam? Thanks
@@freedomisbrightestindungeons Alternatively, they are able-bodied with dysfunctions, hence the rating. Disability doesn't only mean your legs don't work.
Yea, not all VA's are created equal. I actually wasnt a fan of the Fort Bragg VA system. But as soon as I moved to Charlotte it changed the game. They were on top of it
Mike, great video. Thanks for taking the time and share some wisdom. I am personally getting close to my 20th anniversary and have thought in retire. Now, as you mentioned, claim while active, but claiming while active does not affect the career with a possible early medical discharge? Taking away the retirement option? I have spent most of my time in SPECOPS with several surgeries and non-visible issues. What are your thoughts?
Negative. Claiming does not automatically put you on the chopping block for medical discharge. Medical discharge is it’s own beast. Where you can’t even do your current job at all! A claim is just a compilation of all of your ailments over time.
I am curious, I am 70% service connected disability with a 30% unemployablity and get paid at the 100% rate, my question is: Is there any reason to continue applying for the 30% disability? I have heard rumors of them (government) trying to discontinue the unemployability rating.
How do you document everything? I’ve went to sick call for minor injuries that still bother me. How do I know for sure everything is documented? I’m still in and I get out next year
If got a sprained ankle and a overcompensated leg because of ruck march, I got documents and went to rehab, since I got out the army I had problems with my legs, stiffness, ankle pain and even sometimes its hurts while resting. Can I file?
I guess I am just lazy. I filed for a back injury in 2004 (lower back pain) and it was denied. I tried again in 2018 and it was denied because I did the paperwork wrong. So this week I was instructed (by the VA) to fill out a form to appeal my initial denial from 2004! So now the wait begins. I have had back pain for over 30 years.
That sucks, i don’t think you were lazy just uninformed. Military does a shit job in this department. glad they’re reevaluating for you! Keep us updated. If you found value in this please share.
I got out in 2008 & didn't file until 2013 but made the mistake of filing it myself and the VA literally *lied* and claimed that I never broke bones during training even though the Army took X-rays and had me walking on crutches with a brace on my ankle. They denied my claim almost ten years ago but now I'm realizing that the constant ringing in my ears is also probably from my military service. I was in Signal and someone saw a picture of me wearing a headset that the Army quit using a long time ago because apparently everyone that used it ended up with ringing in their ears. I just never connected the dots and realized it was from the headset until somebody else mentioned it and it's always in my left ear - probably because I always took the right side off so that I could hear what was going on around me and because the door was to my right (it's the kind that cups over your whole ear and has a microphone that hangs down in front of your mouth). My vision also got worse while I was in and I'm not 100% certain that was caused by my military service but I've heard that high powered radio frequency can cause vision problems and chronic fatigue syndrome so I guess that's something else I'll have to look into. I don't think I have CFS but I know for a fact that I was exposed to high powered RF because sometimes when we were in a hurry we didn't even mount the feed horn onto the nine meter antenna mast, we just placed it on top of the vehicle shelter and even if you're behind the feed horn there's still backscatter that can hit you. I even have photos of the antennas placed on top of the vehicles, literally inches above my head just because I thought it looked funny. Didn't realize until recently that it could have been causing medical problems *or* that those photos might be used as evidence that they weren't following safety protocols. I just thought that the antenna mast placed the feed horn higher in order to get clearer signals; lower Signal to Noise Ratio etc but it also placed the feed horns far enough above our heads that it reduced our exposure. We once did a CAX with Air Force, they set up a satellite shot for us and told us that if birds fly directly in front of *their* satellite dish you'll see that bird drop out of the sky, dead. I was careful to stay away from that thing but didn't have a choice with our own transmitters because that's where the NCOIC placed them. The only other concern I have is back pain from constantly having to lift an antenna bag by myself (93 lbs). That's supposed to be a two man lift but one guy was always setting up the network on the inside while the other set up the antennas on the outside and always in a hurry, doing it over and over and over to improve our efficiency and every time you set up they decide it's time to "jump sites" to simulate that our site got overrun and we have to move because that's what happens in real world situations. Thank you for this video, this has probably been the most helpful thing I've found on TH-cam so far. It's ridiculous that they don't even *tell* us that these benefits are available and then by the time you find out it's too late. I didn't even know until after I'd been out for five years and then they do nothing to help you. You have to fight them for the benefits we're legally entitled to and I've heard that they literally have people at the VA who get *bonuses* for denying claims! People who never even served are literally stealing money and benefits from people who *did* serve.
Sometimes the VA does do C&P Reexamination check ups, sometimes they do NOT, sometimes they simply forget about you as far as reexams go. If your ratings are in the system as STATIC RATINGS, meaning you have had that same exact rating for over 5 years, or the VA records show LITTLE to ZERO improvement for your situation, with 0 Future Exams, likely you won't get reexamined. Yes, still go & get treated, especially for Mental Health, & still, if your ratings are static with 0 Future Exams scheduled they may still bring you in for a reexam if after a HIGH rating you continue to file claims with the VA, moreso if your rating is already pretty high. You see that a'lot with folks already rated at 100%, surprisingly. I guess for some even 100% still is NOT enough
This is a great point. I always recommend if you feel you need treatment then definitely seek it. But if you were seeking it purely out of greed it can definitely bite you in the ass
@@hellosunshine5 You would need to request it either from your Veterans Service Organization, that they get it for you, or a Law Firm, if you retained a Law Firm for your VA claim. "IT'S CALLED A VA RATING CODE SHEET." That was how I got mine was through the Law Firm that I used. Everybody's VA issues are different & unique. Some folks do just fine using their VSO's, others like me fired their VSO & went the Lawyer route because I knew that what I wanted to claim was solid, my VSO laughed at my claim but my lawyer did not at all. I could have even went the 100% IU route but at my age I just didn't feel ready for that yet because once you go 100% IU or TDIU ur saying on the record that you can't work anywhere & that you can't even exercise or work out at all. That was why I declined IU years ago, I just am NOT ready to wear that hat yet for the rest of my life, if that makes any kind of sense. I get VA & a Federal Retirement so between the 2 I myself get by fairly well right now
Im screwed, i was never properly introduced to these information even during ets. Now I have no way to prove some of the pain in my body. I work as a supply guy/armorer. Im constantly on my feet, lifting, up and down the truck, etc. I dont even know if I can get rating for these ailments that i have now.
You know, I would encourage you to still try. I’m not sure if you will have any luck but it won’t hurt to try. It won’t cost you any money to try unless you hire a lawyer
From your visitors to civilian doctors, did you have to keep your medical records they gave you? I’m sure several people assume they will send those records to the military hospital. Is this true?
So I served for about 6.5 years in a combat arms MOS and deployed to Bosnia. I have been out for 20+ years and didn't start having back problems till after I got out. I had no problems with my back while in the army so there is no documentation of back issues in my records. I didn't hurt my back, just started to have lower back pain and now its so bad I can hardly stand to cook dinner some times. So I don't think I have a leg to stand on as far as being able to claim anything related to my back. I haven't started any process because I think its going to be a total waist of time. That is the only problem I am having so is it really even worth it to attempt with out any documentation?
If I understand, you're saying a vet who was disabled in basic training and got medically discharged before hitting their first duty station, correct? In that case, I would only say that you may have a difficult time trying to do that. You're medical records will only reflect those few months you may have been in. If it was something as severe as paralysis, then that may be a different story. However, with out extensive medical documentation that may be the only information you can use.
after i got out of the military, I went to so many doctors appointments throughout different states that i lived in for stuff that is service connected like anxiety and knee pains. It's been around 12 years since I separated from the service and my symptoms have gotten a lot worser and I'm trying to file for an increase. Do I need to go find and get all those medical history myself when I file for the increase? Or can the VA go back into my files and look at them? I dont even know how to get all those medical history
I fought against myself and my pride, and finally 16 years after getting out I am rated at 80% and still have some claims going through. Don't be your own worst enemy, it isn't worth it. Get the help you need, because no one else will be your biggest advocate
I would like to pick your brain on this ive been out for 12 years and havent gotten started yet.
@@marcaurelius2k226 Been out since '92. Haven't started yet either. G.L.
Same here, it took me 24 years to file a claim. Even then I only did it because it hurt more watching my wife see me suffer. As men we are so used to just not complaining but the people closest to us can tell something is wrong. The MRI and nerve conduction test only confirmed what I had been dealing with all along regarding back pain and weakness and numbness in my legs. It actually felt good being able to prove none of this was in my mind or being exaggerated.
Not easy for some, even if we get help theres a lot of barriers. Specially applying for that VA claim.
@@billkaminsky6255 Same here. First meeting with VSO 9-1-22
Something I would add is when you go to your rating appointment, you need to go in with the mindset of, What is the worst I feel in a day, with this issue. You’ll rarely go on a day you feel your worst. You have to be sure that you tell the doctor about your worst of that issue. Whether it’s physical or mental. And BE HONEST with yourself and that doctor. If it’s not a big deal to you, it won’t be to that doctor or your file.
Great Point!!! This is so important to understand. And most of us will not be honest with ourselves, let alone a random doctor. Smh so true
for me it was easy. i would clean my house the day before. would barely be able to move my right side the next day lol
@@richardcaldwell5313 lol
@Bob Donald well said brother
I honorably served in combat and these people make me sick
Complete scammers
c and p examiners are for the va so highly convence them that you have a major problem bring in current medical record ie copy bring your meds if any
I try to tell all my boys that are still in the infantry to make sure they get everything documented. First try I got 70%, working on 100% now. Made life so much easier when you get out.
Youre exactly right @Austin. Combat arms are the most stubborn in that category, but one of the most deserving. It makes life SO much easier when you arent worried about where your next meal is coming from.
I'm surprised at how many of my old joes aren't getting any documentation built up.
Disability is for vets who need it
You don’t use something you don’t need
@Shay Gordon, it is not a matter of needing or wanting. It is a matter of getting what you deserve. The VA makes the call if you deserve it, it’s that simple.
Well said! I was Infantry (11B & 11H) and was hospitalized at the transition from Basic to AIT (OSUT at Ft. Benning) with a dangerously high fever and a very bad Sinus Infection. Still waiting for my STR to come from being admitted to Martin Army Hospital. The National Archives is slow and, sadly, records weren’t yet computerized in the 80’s which makes paper the only route for recovery. I’m fortunate I was admitted to the hospital as opposed to just having gone to “sick call.” Oh yeah, I was lead squad leader for all of OSUT (only squad leader that never lost their leadership position), so going to sick call wasn’t allowed-Drill Sergeants made it known that anybody who tried to would be replaced and face consequences! Things were so different before Hipaa, video cameras and computer documentation… troops today have no idea. I’ve suffered through so many medical complications over the years related to my high fever, and chronic sinus issues (depression, anxiety and other things). Ignoring my issues served no one, and only caused me to lose out on being the best I could be all that time. I missed out on years of benefits that I should have been receiving, but that’s my own fault! I will eventually get the benefits I rightfully earned…
I love searching TH-cam for vets that help other vets. All this information lit a fire under me and I went from 10% to 90% in 3 months going for 100% this month. I just let life get in the way, kept getting fired and losing my shit on a daily. I did everything myself (wouldn't recommend it!) It taught me a lot about the process though so I help who I can. Countless hours of reading court documents and teaching myself the correct verbiage the VA uses. Good content bruh...
I’m just now getting out and been through hell so I didn’t even fight (70%). Everyone was saying “fight for that 100” but I literally had been f-ked over
@@ladyt9000 So you have 70% now and your trying to get to 100% correct? What did you try to claim and what happened if you don't mind me asking...
@@majikk9123 that is correct. I literally did nothing..it was all referred via MH due to multiple incidents of mistreatment in my career field. I just couldn’t take the BS anymore-I told them they could just kick me out💯
@@ladyt9000 I hate you had to experience that while trying to do something commendable like serve your country! Anyway, this is the point from all your past experiences. You'll never be the same again and neither will I!? It took me over 15 years to file and when I finally took it seriously I saw progress. I'll help anyone that served because I know the shit they pull. I don't know your life personally but it's worth going for it...I personally won't stop until I'm dead because I'm angry as fuck...
@@majikk9123 I understand. I’m not angry just highly disappointed on the level of injustice within a justice system (I was a police and the legal situation overall). It made me not look at just my workers differently, but the career field expanding to humanity overall. I don’t think I’ve slept normally, without a nightmare in over 4yrs now
It took about 18 months but I finally got 100% permanent disability. $3100 per month is a poor price for agent orange cancer but it is appreciated.
The amount we receive for what we sacrifice is small for sure. As you mentioned though it is appreciated and used.
why did it take so long
@@sowop248 That is a good question. I wish I had an answer. At least the payment is retroactive to the day I filed. I would give the money up to be cancer free.
Thank You for your service! and your right it is a poor price!
Your health is your wealth. Thank you for your military service. I've heard that if you set foot on Vietnam soil, just to step off an airplane, you qualify for agent orange. Do your research and good luck. Hope this helps someone. And, THANKS for your service. Great video my man!
You have always been helpful buddy, thanks for the update well I just got a $11k relief check from an NGO and its been very helpful
you can correspond with a relief officer on the Telgram appp use rna me below
Fundingusa00
I live in Montana, and I'm on SSDI can I apply?
@@sophiafindley4553 absolutely dear
These same check helped me a lot when my last check came in late
I’ve been injured several times during my 27 years reserve status. They never gave me an LOD but I always have documented everything and have had Tricare the whole time. I will definitely call DAV! Thanks for the tip!
Thanks for watching and commenting! Please share this vid with other servicemembers. We all need this info. www.militarycashflow.com
I just retired from the Guard, and did the exact same thing. Leave no stone unturned.
Howd it go? I have been injured multiple times training for the reserves but have never complained while on drill weekend, so VA is telling me nothing is service related. However I have everything documented.
My last year of service, I got lucky and talked to a lot of vets that worked on base. They talked to me about everything I had to do and helped tremendously. I am in a way better situation now than I would have been with a wife and 3 kids.
So true! It’s helps with stress of the transition when you know you have some sort of support and income coming in. I didn’t even talk about the peace of mind aspect
That is awesome to hear man, so true 😀🙌
You got lucky you didn’t lose a limb in combat son
Then you would actually be disabled
The last place you should go to file a claim is a VSO. I made a mistake one time and ended up getting denied. The only place to go is DAV.
My dad was a director of a VA regional office and kept telling me to complain about my injuries from jump school. He didn't say why and never told me about secondaries. For years I was stuck at 20% and I complained about tinnitus all the time. I didn't know tinnitus could be a service-connected disability, he didn't mention it even though he heard me complain all the time. I wish TH-cam was around when I was getting out.
You can still file to change or increase your rating.
I had to call my congressman and get him involved to get my disability. I was paid disability severance and received 0% rated. So when a couple years later I thought I would try a reserve unit to finish my time I was told I was too disabled. Ok I'm thinking 0% let me back in, I just can't run. Still no, go to VA and they say you're not disabled enough to get paid lol. So congressman called and said either let him back in or pay him. Magically rated at 40%. Now I'm at 70% because every time they do surgery it causes more scar tissue in my knees and ankle. DON'T EVER GIVE UP!!!
I definitely agree with everything you said. Especially do everything BEFORE you get out, I have some battles now that didn't make the claims and are out then decided to make claims. I say screw acting touch or deal with the pain, cause at the end of the day, NOBODY in the military will pay your bills for you. Get your worth
One of the best short vids on what I need to do while I’m still in I’ve seen so far. Thanks man.
Went through BDD and in less than 5 months got my 100% P&T rating, officially retired 1 aug and by 11 aug the VA had my rating back, the program does work.
That is awesome to hear. So happy it worked out for you. We have plenty of content on the channel regarding transitioning out.
What is dbb?
BDD = benefits delivery upon discharge. You start the process within 180 days of separation or retirement with the goal of getting your benefits paid out to you starting at or soon after your DOS.
About to start now (I'm still on AD looking to retire this fall). Any advice is appreciated.
I asked a friend if he filed any claims with the VA upon leaving service, and he said that he felt fine and wasn't going to file. I told him it's not up to him to decide if he feels fine, rather it's up to the VA to decide what your medical issues are. If it leads to compensation then good for you, if not then you applied and made the VA aware of your physical condition. Also, the VA is there for more than just reviewing and deciding claims. The VA can offset your medical costs with Doctor visits, treatment, prescriptions, hearing aids, and prosthetics to name just a few. Plus with the new Community Care Program, you can get an authorization for local treatment, physical therapy, and surgeries.
Thank you for this video, I've been separated for a long time and thought that everyone had ringing ears. Just shows me, you don't know what you don't know. I get headaches and struggle to sleep at night. And now it seems so obvious as to why.
Dude you are VERY helpful. I ETS'd last year February so im coming up 2 years now. Been battling with myself as to whether or not to claim disabilities from Afghanistan since i know first hand many other vets who have it far worse than me. But thanks to you I am going to start tomorrow (its Sunday today) and visit my local VSO who is 13 minutes away as well as a wellness exam with my provider. It just takes that initial step with honest intentions. Thanks again brother.
Best of luck. I’m glad this was helpful
We need that 5 and 10 year VA check up videos!
I will definitely be setting up those videos as well
Make sure to hit the notification bell and be on the look out for them when they release.
Check with your POA, VSO, or Accrediting Agent and determine which of your service connected disabilities are "static." If they are static they are permanent and cannot be reduced unless you file for an increase exam and the exam finds your condition improved or the Veterans Service Center (VSC) observes that there was a Clear and Unmistakable Error (CUE) associated with your being given the rating. The most common example of this is associated with character of discharge (COD). When a COD that does not meet qualifications for compensation were erroneously awarded a rating will get severed even if they are static.
Summary: If your disability is deemed static and you have an honorable discharge you will not have a follow-up exam for it (with the exception of any CUE's or should you get a reduction due to filing for an increase and your condition being found to have improved). 38 CFR 3.327 (b)(2) explains the protections of static disabilities from routine future exams. Google 38 CFR 3.327 and you should find the list of conditions.
That man is so knowledgeable!! Content is extremely valuable. Im sure we would all appreciate the other part that speaks about the check ups!🔥🔥
Thanks for the comment bro! Please share this vid with others so they know what to do
I appreciate you man. Hope you’re doing well out there
Thanks brother, this is probably the best video on this I’ve seen. Appreciate ya! 🙏🏼🤙🏼
Thank you .Awesome video. I'm at the tale end of my over 20+ year Army career. Former Combat Engineer now something else. And have been hammering out my ailments, injuries, and aches and pains with the clinic inside and outside of post. And was that young combat arms Soldier that "sucked it up" for years and luckily in a position in my unit that gives me ample time to go document my past injuries and such. Great motivational video. Keep up the great work. Army Strong!!
Thank you so much. I’m glad to hear that your unit is flexible and allowing you to catch up on everything. Let me know how it goes. Best of luck.
Excellent Mike! I very much appreciate the information, stuff I don't hear nowhere else. Glad I found you!
Alot of this is easier said than done when your active duty and you will be discouraged about all this until your out and hopefully find a VA in whatever town your in.
Thanks for taking the time and making this video . Just had my 3rd surgery during active duty. This is amazing news .
Glad we could add value brother, make sure to share the vid with any other servicemembers that may find it useful
Going through the BDD, just did my last VES appointment today. Now I sit and wait for the results.
I was like that..."Don't complain" until the pain was just to much to bare.I left the service with a 90% rating thanks to the doctor that f'ed me up.I filed again for my migraines,ankles and shins (which was documented while I was in but they didn't give me a percentage for it).Please my fellow vets...do not wait until it's to late.
I’ve been out 2 years and have severe depression, anxiety, ptsd, a hip impingement, and arthritis. The hip impingement has put me walking on a cane but I work a manual labor job. My hip impingement and mental deterioration make it next to impossible to keep up anymore. I need disability. I was active duty army, I mostly only went to sick call for shin splints… what should I do?
@@ewrgaming Make appointments to be seen by a doctor and tell them where you have pain.Also make appointments with a therapist to be seen for your anxiety and depression.Make sure to ask for a copy of your medical records and any notes that the doctor may have taken during the appointment.Make a paper trail first and then file for VA compensation.That's what I did.I made sure while I was in I left a paper trail and kept documentation of everything.
@@Unique2U05 Yeah I didn’t leave much of a paper trail unfortunately. That’s why I’m working on making one now and the doctor’s notes are specifically noting that the issue was caused by the service.
3yrs 5 months it took. when the claim was determined, 100% rated.
SSDI took 105 days.
CRSC took 10 months
What is crsc?
Combat related special compensation
Was SSDI hard to get?
Very good tips! I will be sure to utilize what I’m deserved.
Do the right thing friends, don’t push everyone to get a rating, not everyone should be entitled to nor deserves it. Those of us who have legitimate ailments, both combat and noncombat, were heavily scrutinized due to the malingerers out there making false claims. I agree that if you’re injured, mental and/or physical, you should seek the VA’s help. It should be for the RIGHT reasons friends, not a paycheck, but a rating for future medical care. Your honor is valued brothers and sisters, and thank you for your sacrifices! God bless!
Good info. Anyone that didn't tell you the same thing during your career (in current times anyway) set you up for failure. I hope everyone hears this loud and clear.
You’re right but unfortunately this is rarely spoken about until its too late. Thanks for the comment brother. Please share with other service members!
Marines didn't care about this stuff one bit.
Tnx for this. I just had a heart attack and receiving care, one of our trailers hit my back too and bn on physical therapy and pain management. I’m just hoping to medboard. My ets is in 13months and it’s brought to start my process.
Couple of things to add to the conversation. I totally lucked out and got the best VA rep possible to help me with filing my claim. I was under the misunderstanding that VA was for guys that were tore up in combat, etc. I now have Bluetooth hearing aides that help me function considerably. I don’t know if you can shop for a VA rep, but at least ask around. Second, if you are nearing military retirement, get your medical jacket and keep hard copies of everything. Air Force acquaintance of mine copied everything out of his medical jacket every time he changed assignments. When he retired and went to VA and a considerable amount of his medical jacket had been cleaned out. Don’t know by who or why but he had hard copies of everything throughout his career. Made his VA experience a lot easier.
That's the military and VA for you!!! Lie, denied, and wait till they die!!!!
Thank you for this INFO!!! New Subsciber from Los Angeles!
Great info to get what is justified for my ailments over the last 30 years of service!
ive documented my sexual assault, and my decent into psychosis and an eventual diagnosis that caused me to be seperated. the fact i have my entire story in my hands, the fear of hearing that my struggles were not significant enough for a 100% would absolutely crush me
Listen I I have worked for the VA 9 years now and im also a Veteran. I'm telling you and begging you from one veteran to another please go and file and have your story heard and make sure you have a representative it is very important that you have a representative that understands VA disability law. I know it's hard to even talk about those traumatic events I'm telling you I understand please believe me but it is very important that you be compensated for what you sacrificed and what it has caused you. There are vso's and lawyers out there waiting to help you. I personally know someone who utilized a law firm called Jan Dils and they helped us Veteran get compensated every step of the way.
@@ddjj8 thanks for showing your support man. i got in contact with a vso and were going to talk more about my case later today. im anxious as all hell but im ready to finally do this
@@deepfriedicecream576 Thats incredible please keep me posted on the progress. Prepare yourself in case you run into any road blocks. Do not stop there keep going and be pesistent!👍🙏
@@deepfriedicecream576 Hey i was just wondering if you decided to go through with the process? And what VSO did you use? I am also in this position.
@@DaleNAdams-mx4lt I did go through with the process and I used a local law firm to help build my case for me. A few days after I saw him, i got my appointments scheduled. I had one already and the psychiatrist diagnosed me with PTSD after I explained my entire situation. Tomorrow I have a C&P exam to see what my rating is.
I encourage you to do the same. Search up lawyers in your area that will help you build your case, and if you get a rating you disagree with, they will help you get a higher one. If you win, the lawyer will take payment in the back pay you would’ve decided from the increase in percentage. If you don’t win, you owe them nothing.
Good luck brother
Mike,
First and foremost, thank you for your service! I always try to share the love with fellow Vets.
Secondly, great video, great content and very well presented.
I got out in ‘16 and I did NOT have these great tips available. To everyone watching the video, take FULLL advantage.
Being a prior Marine, I was very hesitant at first and as Mike mentioned, once you’re out, you realize, you’re on your own. God Bless you, brother! Semper Fidelis!
@Papa Diagne thank you for the kinds words and thank you for your service as well. I have heard many stories like yours and it pains me to know that not every military leadership is sharing this knowledge to their soldiers, marines, seamen, etc. I feel honored that you find this information valuable. Thank you.
Thanks for adding airman 12:20 🤣🤣🤙🏼🤙🏼
Good information for the young men and women it wasn’t there during nam
Thank you. We want the next generation of service members to be better equipped then we were.
Been in for 18 years I need to document all the things I been pushing aside.
Outstanding video! Keep this stuff coming. Would love to see the follow up videos about the periodic VA checkups.
I’m always getting all kinds of different answers, but my service officer DAV was very realistic with it. Bottom line is with my disabilities, I just got a second knee replacement, have sleep apnea, PTSD, lower back issues, and I’m still stuck at 90%.
Hell yeah! Thanks for the info
Thank you for breaking this down in a simple to understand way. I really appreciate you taking the time to explain the process when those around me would not.
I appreciate that bonus tip. I didnt know that so thank you!
Absolutely. We aspire to help as many vets and service members as we can.
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You're right, with my current crpyto portfolio made from my investments with my personal financial advisor Stacey Macken , I totally agree with you
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This video helps me out a ton right now, thanks man
Im glad to hear that!!
Thanks for this. Genuinely helps
Happy to hear it. That is what we strive for.
Thanks, for the video. Just trying to get what I’m owed! It might be just ten percent for me, but still owed it!
That is 100% right!!! Get what youre owed
I got out in 2007 and Noone even bothered to talk about disability because they literally thought if they didn't tell you,you couldn't apply for it.I didn't know until 2014 my injuries could even be claimed! I had to fire my PA and file it myself.Im now 60% and getting worse by the day and I'm really not looking forward to the fight to 100% because I can barely even work right now and I don't make enough to even pay all my monthly bills.
That hurst me to hear that. In that is the unfortunate reality we live in. We are hoping by spreading the word more vets can learn about it sooner in their career.
I am a retired Reservist (28 years). I am at 60% VA disablity. I did have some medical evidence from active duty, but for other conditions it was all from my civilian chiropractor. It seems that the VA does not understand that Reservists cannot make a medical appt and go to a military medical facility since we are on duty for a limited amount of time and do not usually see miltiary doctors for anything other and a 4 or 5 year physical or emergency. So how have other people addressed this challenge when making a VA disability claim? I am curious, please share your experience.
I definitely would like to know as well
Hello, I have anxiety and depression caused by the military and I need to convince Mental Health to get me out of the military ASAP. My base is very neglecting in documenting me to leave the military. Please help me in getting out of the military
You are right my friend!!!! Dont do like us old soldiers did!!!! Wait 10, 20, or even 30 years to file!!!!! Then it's an uphill battle with VA!!!! JUST DO IT!!!!! I'm enjoying my 100% P&T!!!!!!
I waited 30 years and finally got my rating for tinnitus. never knew I could file for it
Thanks, very helpful!
Thank you for this video, I appreciate you taking the time to make this..
I’m glad it helped
I must be the luckiest veteran. I submitted my first claim 10 years after separation from the military. Everything was documented and my XO officer and Command Sergeant Major made letters for me. 8 months later I got 100% P&T. Everytime I tell the story, most veterans don't believe me. I think the key is hospitalization. A lot of veterans fear hospitalization. But in reality, hospitalization is the best thing you can have on your record. I am not saying to seek hospitalization or do things to force a hospitalization. What I'm saying is that sometimes a VA doctor will recommend hospitalization and most veterans deny it because they have jobs or are afraid of being around other folks with problems. That's my humble advice.
You advised the DAV which I have used twice and all they did was fill out the forms and send them in. No advice or how to express what was going on with me and the second time I used them I got the same guy who extremely rude and basically told me to get when I had questions. This person was enough to send veterans in the other direction . I can only hope they were behind the scenes to help.your video was way more helpful then this guy was . Again thanks .
That’s horrible. I’m sorry to hear that. It would make sense that the service is probably only as good as the person working your case. There are a ton of other VSOs as well. The DAV just worked for me
Here is my issue. I have been out of the service for 35 years. I was a paratrooper and did 28 jumps over a 4 year period. Problem is I never have been on sick call for anything. Also due to horse play by some other soldiers and I was pushed into and fell off a building railing and 10 feet to the ground. I was unconscious in the hospital and they released me after a 3 hour stay in the hospital. Fast forward I am 63 years old and for the past 10 years I have been experiencing knee pain in both knees I had my doctor tell me it was arthritis. Every since I left the military I have had office jobs never did anything that put a lot of stress on my body. I am wondering if my knee pain was contributed to my military paratrooper jumping or maybe even that fall I experienced. I must say my time in the military my body went through a lot of stress from during PT in jumpboots to hauling heavy military communications equipment. I have always thought the military would turn me away and say old age is the reason for your problems.
Very good job. I wish I did all of this when I was in, instead of just gutting it out and bearing it. Thank you for sharing.
I’m glad it helped
I got a locked knee while in the service and actually had two surgeries for it but wasn't able to get any disability even though I jumped in and out of a semi truck all day. What actually caused me to go to the hospital was a injury on the basketball court. I believe that my knee was weakened or injured due to the climbing in and out of the truck. Is this actually claimable? I never thought about this until I saw your video. Aloha
For sure that is something that can be considered for a claim. The process would be you would file a claim for your knee. The doctor you see will determine the extent of the disability. If it falls within a range (percentage) of disability then that will be added to your overall disability claim.
My second appointment tomorrow I’m so ready the army jacked me up 🤦🏽♀️😂
Great! Let is know how your appointment goes!
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On Moday Im going my claim for Sleep Apnea, any tips?
Great video! I went to the ER for the first time after a bad landing on an Airborne Op. I’m keeping ALL documentation from the Hospitals!
Sorry to hear about the jump yet I perfectly understand. You’re doing the right thing by making sure it’s documented for sure.
I got a back fracture from a rush march, was documented and in hospital records, also suffered ptsd from abuse, the mental injury from this abuse has affected my living activities ever since. The sergeants of the company were also jagged, some got demotions, so in the legal books. Do you think i qualify 100 for fracture, concussion from physical assault, and ptsd from harsh uncivil treatment?
So if they are considered severe (affecting your abilities or lasting effects) then you will likely receive a high rating in each of the individual categories. They would then combine those categories for your overall rating. Not sure if it would be 100% but it would be a good start
Awesome video with great advice, thanks!
Im glad it was helpful man.
Great video brother. I appreciate you!
I appreciate you taking the time to drop a like and comment brother
I’m glad you got something out of it
Thank you for this. This is great information. Much needed info.
I’m glad it helped
I joined the army in 1981 and a month later I was diagnosed with perforated ear drum and was given a honorable medical discharge am I eligible for benefits? remember I had just started basic training only served less than 30 days.
I never went to sick call while I was in and I filled three years after I got out. 😭 I also went to the VA to file my claim. I think I screwed myself.
I feel your pain😭😭😭😭
Yes because there's no documentation and the military will actively deny it due to lack of records.
Amazing video! Thanks for the info.
Hope it helped
The dumbest mistake ive ever made was not filing a claim when i got out the army. Missed out on over 100k. Now i have 60% va disability. They giving me problems on claims secondary to my ptsd. My back and ankle has gotten worse. Filed a claim for a increase. But was denied.
Most vets don't know its an option or the impact it could have on them later. Its much harder to come back afterword's and try to get the claims from what I hear. Let us know if you try again and how it turns out.
My experience.....I was awarded 60% in 2009...PTSD.....my lawyer filed SSDI & i was awarded that...we went back to VA & i was awarded 100% PTSD...my VA service advisor helped a great deal, as well as my psychiatrist....she was born in Poland....american Dr's ?? lol....
Does your lawyer work in florida?
I tried to get physical therapy for my broken wrist and I wasn’t allowed to go. Luckily I had to go to the hospital so it’s documented. I never went to any doctors outside because I was worried about the cost.
Yea cost of non-VA doctors can be an issue. You can try to request an off post referral. But those aren’t guaranteed either
If its not documented, can I still apply? I have many ailments now that I know is service related but I was being Mr. tough guy so there’s nothing to go back to. Even in civilian I did this. But today I am suffering. What should I do?
Great Stuff.
Thanks. Hopefully it will help some people
Great information. Thank you for sharing it.
Glad it was helpful!🙌
I retired in 1998 with 80%, since then lots of stuff has happened and want to try for 100, but worry about reducing it!
As long as your requests are submitted with proof and evidence, the VA should not downgrade you. I am 80 and now working on 90, then 100. Bottom line is your documentation and the ever important nexus letters.
downgrading comes with proof of recovery or if you fail to respond to any VA direct inquires. I dont forsee that being a major concern for you. You should be ok
Do you guys find it better to work with the VSO or DAV?
Thoughts?
Thanks!
The DAV is just one of many different VSO’s. You can choose whichever one fits your communication style
Thanks for the video and the information. I've been out a few years but I will be following up.
Awesome. Glad to hear
Thank you
So true that people loose their ratings. I work at the VA and very angry Vets come in frequently because they received a letter downgrading their disability rating. It is very sad when Vets are counting on those benefits to survive.
If you could do this, being as how you have an insiders knowledge, it might be helpful to list the top 5 reasons why they get downgraded, it may help some to avoid that situation. Thanks☺
Denise, I will be 55 at the five year mark, and my c file indicates that my conditions are static and no future exams. Is it safe to say i won't be called for a future exam? Thanks
Sadly the vets you speak of are able bodied healthy men with all their limbs. They need to be downgraded and go back to work
@@freedomisbrightestindungeons Alternatively, they are able-bodied with dysfunctions, hence the rating. Disability doesn't only mean your legs don't work.
Seattle Region VA is JACKED UP. Broken system.
Yea, not all VA's are created equal. I actually wasnt a fan of the Fort Bragg VA system. But as soon as I moved to Charlotte it changed the game. They were on top of it
This is awesome thank you!
Thank you so much for giving us feedback! Have you applied for disability?
@@MilitaryCashflow I just emailed a VSO to start a VA disability claim. I am planning to file it within 180-90 days till EAS. Hopefully, it goes well!
Mike, great video. Thanks for taking the time and share some wisdom. I am personally getting close to my 20th anniversary and have thought in retire. Now, as you mentioned, claim while active, but claiming while active does not affect the career with a possible early medical discharge? Taking away the retirement option? I have spent most of my time in SPECOPS with several surgeries and non-visible issues. What are your thoughts?
Negative. Claiming does not automatically put you on the chopping block for medical discharge. Medical discharge is it’s own beast. Where you can’t even do your current job at all! A claim is just a compilation of all of your ailments over time.
@@michaelsglaspie thanks for your wisdom and clarification. I am looking forward to seeing more videos. Stay safe.
New video with Mike every Tuesday and New Podcast episode every Thursday.
Make sure you hit that notification bell to not miss another upload 😀🙌
I've seen people get kicked out because they went to sick call too much...
True story
I can believe that for sure
this really helped thanks !!
I am curious, I am 70% service connected disability with a 30% unemployablity and get paid at the 100% rate, my question is: Is there any reason to continue applying for the 30% disability? I have heard rumors of them (government) trying to discontinue the unemployability rating.
How do you document everything? I’ve went to sick call for minor injuries that still bother me. How do I know for sure everything is documented? I’m still in and I get out next year
If got a sprained ankle and a overcompensated leg because of ruck march, I got documents and went to rehab, since I got out the army I had problems with my legs, stiffness, ankle pain and even sometimes its hurts while resting. Can I file?
I guess I am just lazy. I filed for a back injury in 2004 (lower back pain) and it was denied. I tried again in 2018 and it was denied because I did the paperwork wrong. So this week I was instructed (by the VA) to fill out a form to appeal my initial denial from 2004! So now the wait begins. I have had back pain for over 30 years.
That sucks, i don’t think you were lazy just uninformed. Military does a shit job in this department. glad they’re reevaluating for you! Keep us updated. If you found value in this please share.
I got out in 2008 & didn't file until 2013 but made the mistake of filing it myself and the VA literally *lied* and claimed that I never broke bones during training even though the Army took X-rays and had me walking on crutches with a brace on my ankle. They denied my claim almost ten years ago but now I'm realizing that the constant ringing in my ears is also probably from my military service. I was in Signal and someone saw a picture of me wearing a headset that the Army quit using a long time ago because apparently everyone that used it ended up with ringing in their ears. I just never connected the dots and realized it was from the headset until somebody else mentioned it and it's always in my left ear - probably because I always took the right side off so that I could hear what was going on around me and because the door was to my right (it's the kind that cups over your whole ear and has a microphone that hangs down in front of your mouth).
My vision also got worse while I was in and I'm not 100% certain that was caused by my military service but I've heard that high powered radio frequency can cause vision problems and chronic fatigue syndrome so I guess that's something else I'll have to look into. I don't think I have CFS but I know for a fact that I was exposed to high powered RF because sometimes when we were in a hurry we didn't even mount the feed horn onto the nine meter antenna mast, we just placed it on top of the vehicle shelter and even if you're behind the feed horn there's still backscatter that can hit you. I even have photos of the antennas placed on top of the vehicles, literally inches above my head just because I thought it looked funny. Didn't realize until recently that it could have been causing medical problems *or* that those photos might be used as evidence that they weren't following safety protocols. I just thought that the antenna mast placed the feed horn higher in order to get clearer signals; lower Signal to Noise Ratio etc but it also placed the feed horns far enough above our heads that it reduced our exposure. We once did a CAX with Air Force, they set up a satellite shot for us and told us that if birds fly directly in front of *their* satellite dish you'll see that bird drop out of the sky, dead. I was careful to stay away from that thing but didn't have a choice with our own transmitters because that's where the NCOIC placed them.
The only other concern I have is back pain from constantly having to lift an antenna bag by myself (93 lbs). That's supposed to be a two man lift but one guy was always setting up the network on the inside while the other set up the antennas on the outside and always in a hurry, doing it over and over and over to improve our efficiency and every time you set up they decide it's time to "jump sites" to simulate that our site got overrun and we have to move because that's what happens in real world situations.
Thank you for this video, this has probably been the most helpful thing I've found on TH-cam so far. It's ridiculous that they don't even *tell* us that these benefits are available and then by the time you find out it's too late. I didn't even know until after I'd been out for five years and then they do nothing to help you. You have to fight them for the benefits we're legally entitled to and I've heard that they literally have people at the VA who get *bonuses* for denying claims! People who never even served are literally stealing money and benefits from people who *did* serve.
Sometimes the VA does do C&P Reexamination check ups, sometimes they do NOT, sometimes they simply forget about you as far as reexams go. If your ratings are in the system as STATIC RATINGS, meaning you have had that same exact rating for over 5 years, or the VA records show LITTLE to ZERO improvement for your situation, with 0 Future Exams, likely you won't get reexamined. Yes, still go & get treated, especially for Mental Health, & still, if your ratings are static with 0 Future Exams scheduled they may still bring you in for a reexam if after a HIGH rating you continue to file claims with the VA, moreso if your rating is already pretty high. You see that a'lot with folks already rated at 100%, surprisingly. I guess for some even 100% still is NOT enough
Where would one see If they have a static rating or not? It is on the website?
This is a great point. I always recommend if you feel you need treatment then definitely seek it. But if you were seeking it purely out of greed it can definitely bite you in the ass
@@hellosunshine5 You would need to request it either from your Veterans Service Organization, that they get it for you, or a Law Firm, if you retained a Law Firm for your VA claim. "IT'S CALLED A VA RATING CODE SHEET." That was how I got mine was through the Law Firm that I used. Everybody's VA issues are different & unique. Some folks do just fine using their VSO's, others like me fired their VSO & went the Lawyer route because I knew that what I wanted to claim was solid, my VSO laughed at my claim but my lawyer did not at all. I could have even went the 100% IU route but at my age I just didn't feel ready for that yet because once you go 100% IU or TDIU ur saying on the record that you can't work anywhere & that you can't even exercise or work out at all. That was why I declined IU years ago, I just am NOT ready to wear that hat yet for the rest of my life, if that makes any kind of sense. I get VA & a Federal Retirement so between the 2 I myself get by fairly well right now
Im screwed, i was never properly introduced to these information even during ets. Now I have no way to prove some of the pain in my body. I work as a supply guy/armorer. Im constantly on my feet, lifting, up and down the truck, etc. I dont even know if I can get rating for these ailments that i have now.
You know, I would encourage you to still try. I’m not sure if you will have any luck but it won’t hurt to try. It won’t cost you any money to try unless you hire a lawyer
90% , because an army guy pulled my card. My medical records is like a bible of Mike.
From your visitors to civilian doctors, did you have to keep your medical records they gave you? I’m sure several people assume they will send those records to the military hospital. Is this true?
Yes I had to keep them and turn them into the medical facility personally. Or hold it until I was ready to claim
I have a VA podcast coming soon. Vets helping vets.
That's awesome man good luck with it. 🙌
Let me know when it comes out and how I can help
@@michaelsglaspie thank you brother, have a blessed day.
How many claims can you submit to the VA. Is it one claim at a time or can you claim multiple claims?
@Justin Gonzalez thanks
@Justin Gonzalez is right about submitting as much as you want at once. I love his insight on the 2-4 at a time too.
@Justin Gonzalez awesome!
So I served for about 6.5 years in a combat arms MOS and deployed to Bosnia. I have been out for 20+ years and didn't start having back problems till after I got out. I had no problems with my back while in the army so there is no documentation of back issues in my records. I didn't hurt my back, just started to have lower back pain and now its so bad I can hardly stand to cook dinner some times. So I don't think I have a leg to stand on as far as being able to claim anything related to my back. I haven't started any process because I think its going to be a total waist of time. That is the only problem I am having so is it really even worth it to attempt with out any documentation?
Any suggestions how a basic training disabled vet move up his claim...I'm 40% now tryin to move up
If I understand, you're saying a vet who was disabled in basic training and got medically discharged before hitting their first duty station, correct? In that case, I would only say that you may have a difficult time trying to do that. You're medical records will only reflect those few months you may have been in. If it was something as severe as paralysis, then that may be a different story. However, with out extensive medical documentation that may be the only information you can use.
after i got out of the military, I went to so many doctors appointments throughout different states that i lived in for stuff that is service connected like anxiety and knee pains. It's been around 12 years since I separated from the service and my symptoms have gotten a lot worser and I'm trying to file for an increase. Do I need to go find and get all those medical history myself when I file for the increase? Or can the VA go back into my files and look at them? I dont even know how to get all those medical history