I have a ton of questions but let's assume the worse...find another VSO or, understand the process yourself just enough to submit your claim with evidence. DKGVF meets with Veterans online nationwide.
I never used one of the VA claim companies but I’m glad they are another choice for Veterans to use if they choose. No one ever forced a veteran to use these companies. We know we can’t rely on VSO’s or the VA for that matter and it’s for that reason why these companies are so successful. 🤷♂️
All of them are garbage. VA attorneys are the truth because the have heels digging in the dirt to get you the highest rating you deserve. I'm glad I do with the attorney because I wouldn't be at the VA Special Compensation level now
There is most definitely a time and place for Attorney's to get involved. For initial claims, highly recommend local VSOs that the Veteran feels comfortable with.
You are absolutely right. If these claims consulting companies weren't good, they wouldn't have had the success that they are having. Which is what stresses the underlining theme of the content here...VSOs and the VA absolutely have to do better, especially if they are taking an option away from Veterans that don't mind paying a fee. Although paying that fee is objectively wrong (per 38 CFR), it still doesn't change reality.
The problem I see is the NEXUS LETTERS and C&P examiners asking you questions to try and trip you up doing evaluation!!! How to get a NEXUS when you only use VA doctors!!! My last Psychology video call I was ask three time “so nothing else has changed “ I responded three time yes things have changed. Not sure if she heard the first time she asked. I reported it on the feedback card.
VA Healthcare certainly isn't perfect and you're right...not all providers, I'd actually argue most providers are not going to write an medical opinion (nexus) or complete a DBQ for the disability side of the house. This is where private opinions and DBQs come into play but then again, there's some things to understand about THAT process, too.
This is an extremely sad reality. VSOs need to be pushing Fully Developed Claims, backed by hard medical evidence, and if FDCs aren't possible, then as close to it as what IS possible.
This is why I got a VA accredited attorney and in months got me from 80% yo SMC S and I did had to pay $10,000. Hill and Ponton referred me to another attorney and they wre successful to get e 100% P and T and SMC S under a year turn around. These non VA accredited companies that charged a high fee don't even get you to 100 P and T and still charge you a high fee. Veterans Guardians wanted me to used them for their service, they was going to get me TDIU and I told them, I have claims that will get me P and T. They were trying to sell me the TDIU and I told them no dice and I'm glad I did. My attorney did go further than TDIU, He went to SMC S and still seeking a higher level. Lawyers knows the VA law and they can work in your favor.
I'm glad you decided to use an accreditation! Especially in appeals...Could a solid VSO that understands the "Big 3" get you there? Absolutely...Does that always happen? Absolutely not. Good on you for not giving up. Big 3: th-cam.com/video/ZcNXv0vKtCs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tJw6roMqksshKCyf
I agree. Since OIF/OEF vets are far more knowledgeable about their benefits and are applying for them far more than Vietnam and WWII vets did I can see some form of lobbying against vet services since they know how to "word" your claim correctly to get you compensated properly. The government just started paying out for Agent Orange 3 years ago, I don't expect them to be happy about actually paying vets for disabilities in mass now.
Eh, I'd probably argue that these companies charge an extreme amount of money for a free service and targets vulnerable Veterans. Now that doesn't make me right...but it's certainly an issue of contention within the VA and companies this law effects.
It is important to point out that nobody has to use a 3rd party company like VACI. The reason people do use these companies is because the VSO, DAV, and so on have failed them. By removing paid companies from the mix we are taking options off the table for veterans who are having trouble getting service connected. Do we really want the government deciding who we can get to represent vets in need of assistance.
Well, that's the golden question. I'd ask a counter question... Do we really want vulnerable Veterans to pay $1,000s, sometimes upwards of $10-15, maybe $20,000 for a VA Disability Claim?
@@AccreditedVSO Do we really want veterans to pay $100k for a Ford truck? It is up to the individuals to pay for what they want and what they want to pay for. If you think you have the answer for everybody else then why not run for dictator? For reference, people who use a lawyer for social security disability pay too. Do you expect people to work for free? Do you? I wouldn't use an expensive VA claim service, but I certainly would not deny someone else the right to. What you are trying to do is say you know what is best for everybody else. You don't. CivDiv and other channels provide information to assist veterans in pursuit of their benefits. Should they need further help they have the right to use a company like VACI, or others. I don't see a problem with that.
VSO hassled both of us, different years/generations Openly hostile, VA still isn't doing anything about that either. So can you still hire for appeals or what
This sounds like a nightmare experience with a VSO and I couldn't imagine. If you are in New Jersey, you can absolutely hire accredited attorneys to handle your appeals as this falls within the confines of 38 CFR.
I can understand and probably agree with this new law but, at the same time I often feel that we are not represented by competent veterans advocate services when preparing the complex paperwork for a successful claim. Therefore, many rely on private professionals to help us with complex cases. In some of my more complex claims the VA hired professionals to work against my case and they did. Why I cannot do the same to represent me?
I 100% agree. Their is power in private IMOs and DBQs, especially in appeals. It's important that Veterans understand what an IMO and DBQ means and is used for. Specialists on the 'top of the food chain' will generally be a great option IF you are going down that route.
For all of the success stories, there is another one where the veteran and even widows were financially exploited. Some of these charge large fees even when the claim is denied. I think there should be a cap on how much they can charge.
Find a local VSO, or county, and start that process. Each VSO is responsible for training and accrediting VSO Representatives. That's the short answer.
I wish I can be a VSO, but can't even train for one because I can't work for the government at the same time. I would have to quit my job first, maybe if I ever get into the hundo club.
Many people, especially Veterans deal with this same problem. Legalities when it comes to accreditation. I (Clay) am also a Civilian for the Federal Government which is why my role is strictly Volunteer and here on Social Media. I'd encourage those with this dilemma to explore other ways, like volunteer roles to give back to the community if you feel passionate about helping Veterans in that capacity.
So; if you are an attorney or VSO who owns his own consulting company, and you charge Veterans for legal advice and to assist in claims in NJ, than this law would make your actions illegal?
ANYONE charging Veterans outside the confines of 38 CFR, yes. Accredited attorneys and Claims Agents fall within 38 CFR as long as they aren't charging for APPEALS and more than 33.3%. VSOs cannot charge in any way, shape or form and if they are, let me know name and contact information please.
@@AccreditedVSO So NJ has capped charges at 33%, and made charging for appeals civilly illegal. So; this could have a negative effect. One possibility is that organizations who normally handle cases, might say, “Hey, you live in NJ, we no longer accept clients from that state.” Also; appeals can be timely and labor intensive. If I were attorney, I’d definitely refuse to handle appeals if I can’t charge for them.
I wish I had this back in 2020 it costed me $13,000 over a 1 year and a haft. For 2 difference claims they helped with 1/2 of my disability payments VACI, VA claims insider. I was appreciated them helping me but the cost was to much.
Those that do will need to put more effort into understanding their VA Disability claim as it pertains to them and ensure their VSO (or themselves) are doing what's right and following the Big 3. Big 3: th-cam.com/video/ZcNXv0vKtCs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tJw6roMqksshKCyf
Combat veterans generally speaking are more prone to injuries due to training work-ups and then the experiences of combat. But...combat doesn't dictate disability, either. I LOVE to see other Veterans helping other veterans. Stick with the Big 3 and you can't go wrong. Big 3: th-cam.com/video/ZcNXv0vKtCs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tJw6roMqksshKCyf
Thanks for posting. I’m still unpacking how I feel about this.
Thank you for commenting!
My VSO isn't returning my phone calls, or emails. What can you do?
I have a ton of questions but let's assume the worse...find another VSO or, understand the process yourself just enough to submit your claim with evidence. DKGVF meets with Veterans online nationwide.
looks like I gotta move to jersey
All of a sudden Jersey looks pretty nice!
The concern shown by the government is because more people are qualifying for benefits because of outside help
I did not need a company to get VA medical care these companies just want your VA money.......
Absolutely
I never used one of the VA claim companies but I’m glad they are another choice for Veterans to use if they choose. No one ever forced a veteran to use these companies. We know we can’t rely on VSO’s or the VA for that matter and it’s for that reason why these companies are so successful. 🤷♂️
All of them are garbage. VA attorneys are the truth because the have heels digging in the dirt to get you the highest rating you deserve. I'm glad I do with the attorney because I wouldn't be at the VA Special Compensation level now
There is most definitely a time and place for Attorney's to get involved. For initial claims, highly recommend local VSOs that the Veteran feels comfortable with.
You are absolutely right. If these claims consulting companies weren't good, they wouldn't have had the success that they are having. Which is what stresses the underlining theme of the content here...VSOs and the VA absolutely have to do better, especially if they are taking an option away from Veterans that don't mind paying a fee.
Although paying that fee is objectively wrong (per 38 CFR), it still doesn't change reality.
The problem I see is the NEXUS LETTERS and C&P examiners asking you questions to try and trip you up doing evaluation!!! How to get a NEXUS when you only use VA doctors!!! My last Psychology video call I was ask three time “so nothing else has changed “ I responded three time yes things have changed. Not sure if she heard the first time she asked. I reported it on the feedback card.
VA Healthcare certainly isn't perfect and you're right...not all providers, I'd actually argue most providers are not going to write an medical opinion (nexus) or complete a DBQ for the disability side of the house. This is where private opinions and DBQs come into play but then again, there's some things to understand about THAT process, too.
VSOs I’ve dealt with turned out to be a waste of time.
This is an extremely sad reality. VSOs need to be pushing Fully Developed Claims, backed by hard medical evidence, and if FDCs aren't possible, then as close to it as what IS possible.
This is why I got a VA accredited attorney and in months got me from 80% yo SMC S and I did had to pay $10,000. Hill and Ponton referred me to another attorney and they wre successful to get e 100% P and T and SMC S under a year turn around. These non VA accredited companies that charged a high fee don't even get you to 100 P and T and still charge you a high fee. Veterans Guardians wanted me to used them for their service, they was going to get me TDIU and I told them, I have claims that will get me P and T. They were trying to sell me the TDIU and I told them no dice and I'm glad I did. My attorney did go further than TDIU, He went to SMC S and still seeking a higher level. Lawyers knows the VA law and they can work in your favor.
I'm glad you decided to use an accreditation! Especially in appeals...Could a solid VSO that understands the "Big 3" get you there? Absolutely...Does that always happen? Absolutely not. Good on you for not giving up.
Big 3:
th-cam.com/video/ZcNXv0vKtCs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tJw6roMqksshKCyf
Just my two cents but I think states and the feds want to stop these for profit business because they are effective.
I agree. Since OIF/OEF vets are far more knowledgeable about their benefits and are applying for them far more than Vietnam and WWII vets did I can see some form of lobbying against vet services since they know how to "word" your claim correctly to get you compensated properly. The government just started paying out for Agent Orange 3 years ago, I don't expect them to be happy about actually paying vets for disabilities in mass now.
Eh, I'd probably argue that these companies charge an extreme amount of money for a free service and targets vulnerable Veterans. Now that doesn't make me right...but it's certainly an issue of contention within the VA and companies this law effects.
Facts!!!!
It is important to point out that nobody has to use a 3rd party company like VACI. The reason people do use these companies is because the VSO, DAV, and so on have failed them. By removing paid companies from the mix we are taking options off the table for veterans who are having trouble getting service connected. Do we really want the government deciding who we can get to represent vets in need of assistance.
Well, that's the golden question. I'd ask a counter question...
Do we really want vulnerable Veterans to pay $1,000s, sometimes upwards of $10-15, maybe $20,000 for a VA Disability Claim?
@@AccreditedVSO Do we really want veterans to pay $100k for a Ford truck? It is up to the individuals to pay for what they want and what they want to pay for. If you think you have the answer for everybody else then why not run for dictator? For reference, people who use a lawyer for social security disability pay too. Do you expect people to work for free? Do you? I wouldn't use an expensive VA claim service, but I certainly would not deny someone else the right to. What you are trying to do is say you know what is best for everybody else. You don't. CivDiv and other channels provide information to assist veterans in pursuit of their benefits. Should they need further help they have the right to use a company like VACI, or others. I don't see a problem with that.
If people think it's for the vet's benfit, they are wrong. This is too make it harder to make an educated claim.
VSO's were absolutely useless for me. I think location is a big factor aa far as finding a competent VSO.
Location is certainly a factor, along with many others like personalities of all parties. This is a sad reality.
VSO hassled both of us, different years/generations Openly hostile, VA still isn't doing anything about that either.
So can you still hire for appeals or what
This sounds like a nightmare experience with a VSO and I couldn't imagine. If you are in New Jersey, you can absolutely hire accredited attorneys to handle your appeals as this falls within the confines of 38 CFR.
I can understand and probably agree with this new law but, at the same time I often feel that we are not represented by competent veterans advocate services when preparing the complex paperwork for a successful claim. Therefore, many rely on private professionals to help us with complex cases. In some of my more complex claims the VA hired professionals to work against my case and they did. Why I cannot do the same to represent me?
I 100% agree. Their is power in private IMOs and DBQs, especially in appeals. It's important that Veterans understand what an IMO and DBQ means and is used for. Specialists on the 'top of the food chain' will generally be a great option IF you are going down that route.
For all of the success stories, there is another one where the veteran and even widows were financially exploited. Some of these charge large fees even when the claim is denied. I think there should be a cap on how much they can charge.
This is a great perspective and there are TONS of horrible experiences and Veterans that were turned away due to the complexity of their claim.
I think that they shouldn’t be paid unless your VA claim is approved
VA claim company rip me off and tried to charge me 20000 for assists me with my claim.
There are TONS of stories and bad experiences with claims consulting companies.
How do you become a VSO?
Find a local VSO, or county, and start that process. Each VSO is responsible for training and accrediting VSO Representatives. That's the short answer.
I wish I can be a VSO, but can't even train for one because I can't work for the government at the same time. I would have to quit my job first, maybe if I ever get into the hundo club.
Many people, especially Veterans deal with this same problem. Legalities when it comes to accreditation. I (Clay) am also a Civilian for the Federal Government which is why my role is strictly Volunteer and here on Social Media. I'd encourage those with this dilemma to explore other ways, like volunteer roles to give back to the community if you feel passionate about helping Veterans in that capacity.
So; if you are an attorney or VSO who owns his own consulting company, and you charge Veterans for legal advice and to assist in claims in NJ, than this law would make your actions illegal?
ANYONE charging Veterans outside the confines of 38 CFR, yes. Accredited attorneys and Claims Agents fall within 38 CFR as long as they aren't charging for APPEALS and more than 33.3%. VSOs cannot charge in any way, shape or form and if they are, let me know name and contact information please.
@@AccreditedVSO So NJ has capped charges at 33%, and made charging for appeals civilly illegal.
So; this could have a negative effect. One possibility is that organizations who normally handle cases, might say, “Hey, you live in NJ, we no longer accept clients from that state.”
Also; appeals can be timely and labor intensive. If I were attorney, I’d definitely refuse to handle appeals if I can’t charge for them.
@bcliciousus well lawyers don't cases they can't win.
@@prentfaiyazethical ones do, but I do know some attorneys and VSOs who love throwing mud at the wall, and just seeing if it will stick.
They didn’t hear you! Say it again Clay! “FDC as the Standard!” and “Properly Rated!”
THIS IS A SLOGAN!
I wish I had this back in 2020 it costed me $13,000 over a 1 year and a haft. For 2 difference claims they helped with 1/2 of my disability payments VACI, VA claims insider. I was appreciated them helping me but the cost was to much.
The cost is definitely a bit much especially to a vulnerable population
Big news!!
HUGE!
Really glad I don't love in new jersey.
Those that do will need to put more effort into understanding their VA Disability claim as it pertains to them and ensure their VSO (or themselves) are doing what's right and following the Big 3.
Big 3:
th-cam.com/video/ZcNXv0vKtCs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tJw6roMqksshKCyf
I just tell my veterans from what I have learned. I can usually land a veteran who has been in combat anywhere from 60%-100% with SMCs.
Combat veterans generally speaking are more prone to injuries due to training work-ups and then the experiences of combat. But...combat doesn't dictate disability, either. I LOVE to see other Veterans helping other veterans. Stick with the Big 3 and you can't go wrong.
Big 3:
th-cam.com/video/ZcNXv0vKtCs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tJw6roMqksshKCyf
NJ paving the way!
They certainly did! I am really excited about this and I hope the buck continues