Filing for a VA Disability Claim can be extremely complex and can be a difficult situation for many. This is especially difficult when dealing with a plethora of different conditions. Whether being a veteran that is in the process of rolling into civilian life or has been out of active duty for years it is vital to understand how to tackle a VA Disability Claim. Being able to get the rightful payment you deserve comes first.
At Coskrey Law, our staff is committed to putting your needs first. We want to make sure to give you a great step by step guide into learning and navigating through the VA system. Below is a guide to help aid in the process behind the VA Disability Claim for multiple conditions.
What Qualifies as a Service Condition
Before filing, it is important to make sure the claims are service connected. Conditions may be:
- Directly Service-Connected: An example of this could be an injury sustained during combat or even on duty training.
- Secondary Connected: Caused or aggravated by an issue from a service.
- Plausible Connected: Conditions that will automatically apply to VA Claim from certain exposers.
Medical Evidence
Documentation and evidence of claims are essential, make sure to collect:
- STR– Service Treatment Records
- MIlitary Records
- VA and or Private Medical Records
- Statement from Doctor (Letters explaining the connection of the condition to the service)
- Personal Statements (Statement of recognizing the impact on the person’s daily life, and how they are connected to the service they did)
VA Form 21-526EZ
This form will allow you to list more than one claim in the submission. Make sure when filling out this form that you:
- Make sure to be specific about your situation or injury. Instead of using a broad answer like “hip issues”, go for a more in depth approach. Try using the “labral tear of the right hip” for example.
- Include all conditions, Even if there are some minor issues going on, it is still important to list them and it will only help your case.
- If, a primary condition has led into a secondary condition. For example, if chronic pain has led to symptoms of depression. It is crucial to write this down.
You can file this claim by:
- Mail to regional VA Office
- In person at VA Office
- Online at VA.Gov
- Needed assistance by a trusted representative, like Coskrey Law
Attend C&P Exams
Once filed, the VA will potentially sign you up for a Compensation and Pension exam to evaluate your claims and conditions. It is important that you be honest with yourself and the symptoms you have. Explain your conditions in a detailed, thorough approach to explain how it’s complicating daily life. On exam day, still make sure to explain any flair ups or unwanted conditions that may not be happening that day, but could spark in the future.
Understanding How VA rates Multiple Conditions
The VA uses a combined rating table, and this will determine your disability rating. Although, this is not a simple addition method. For example, two 50% disabilities do not equal 100%. Each of these circumstances and conditions are calculated to help you anticipate what outcome it will be and also prepare you for an appeal if it happens. If so, don’t be afraid to appeal! It is common for some initial claims to be denied or underpriced.
Getting Legal Help
Filing for a VA Disability Claim can be a hesitant task to do by yourself. At Coskrey Law you won’t be alone in this process. Our knowledgeable attorney can help you conquer the claim and receive the benefits you deserve. If you need help getting started, contact us today.