Another great interview with lots of encouraging news for those of us struggling with the initial filing. I am mostly angry with myself for not appealing the 2004 denial of PTSD. So this time I am coming with TWO letters including diagnoses and nexus as evidence, which I recognize will be ignored by the Regional Office but set up my forthcoming decade(s) of appeal. What an awful system!
Thanks for the video and info...a vet should never give up on their claims and get help if needed...I won my case after 38 years and got back pay(huge$$$$) for 38 years......I went from 20% to 100% P&T.
I've gone to multiple veteran organizations to get help with claims. VOS just tell me print out this form. Fill it out and send it in. I even quite my local VFW due to not getting any help with Disability issues. I'm 80% with VA and on SS Disability. My SS Disability is from my Service connected issues. Well Tom glad you were able to get what you deserved. I'm sure that back pay $ was pretty sweet.
@@supasav6667 I see you didn't get a reply: I believe the answer is "YES" you need a Nexus Letter linking the Service connected disability with the secondary disability. I am treating the secondary sleep apnea with the same amount of effort as the direct PTSD. Just make sure you are setting up your appeals from the very beginning. Some helpers recommend "Higher Level Review" before filing appeal to the Board of Veterans Appeals because BVA has been allowed to virtually come to a stand still with multi-year delays before they even hear our appeals.
I am working on recovering from these mistakes. Thank you for providing information to help everyone in this battle. I wish that I could afford to hire an attorney.
Most VA-accredited attorneys, like us, charge nothing upfront, Robert. We work on a contingency fee meaning we only charge when and if we win the case.
I had lung cancer at age 42 in 1988. I served in USAF for 4 years including American Occupied Okinawa, Japan. I lived in old barracks in Texas, Okinawa and Florida for 4 years all with asbestos including lead and asbestos in paint. I was honorable discharged in 1971 and in 1988 was diagnosed with lung cancer and the pulmonologist at the time said the best way to go is to have a total R Lung Pneumonectomy and I did that. I did not file a claim with VA back then due to ignorance and I was young with a good job after recovery. I just had my bladder and prostate removed in May 2023 and I am now filing for the cancer and residuals. I am doing it myself. I filed intent on Sept 3 and almost ready to submit. I did a lot of research and decided not to hire VSO or a coach, etc. I am hoping to get TDIU as with an Ostomy and severed COPD now I cant work. I live in Cape Canaveral and will get help if I have to appeal. m
A little piece of advice for veterans. Do not get out of military with a honorable discharge. Always file a medical discharge when your EOC date is up. I broke my back, hip and have severe ptsd. It took 10 years to get 20%. A civilian doctor rated me at 70% and I only got 10% from the VA. I spent a 8 years of my youth in the middle east. Then 10 to try to get 100 bucks. Literally a spit in the face if you ask me.
I disagree with medical discharge. I was rated for 90 percent one year after filing. Do your research into how to win with what you developed in the military. Never give up.
Im a reader. I filed my own claim. (Would not recommend). Im at 100 p and t. It is incredibly difficult to understand all the issues. Getting all the right documents, etc....DONT GIVE UP!
Made my claim directly the day I separated and got a call from a guy that was a regional claim personnel in St Pete, FL 10 months later. He said his name was Lee. Lee called Me to inform me my claim was LOST. It was on his desk and then it wasn’t. I asked where it went. He said I misunderstood. That it got to his desk and it wasn’t on his desk anymore. I asked for his manager and was told I could not ask for his or her last names or be told where my claim went. They told me to refile. I found my original claim paperwork. What do I do?! Also my dept lied saying they took care of my dental needs prior to separation. And I brought up my sleep studies and they disregarded my needs prior to my separation. I was literally just shown the door with sign here and here
@Davey Jones: I see that you did not get a reply. My non-VSO / non-attorney suggestion is you file as if you never filed before, and cite that the original date of submission WILL be the determining effective date since it is not hyour fault the VA "lost" your file. Set your mind for a long battle. The VA is the enemy. They absolutely do NOT assist you with your claims. Consider interviewing VSO's, most of whom are kind of dim but nice old people wanting to help out. Also, if you want to learn more, consider watching everything "Combat Craig" has on RUclips. He is very knowledgeable and makes an excellent case that we need to become our initial advocates. DO NOT GIVE UP! They must have been really convinced you had a great claim not to even deny it. "Losing it" is absolutely absurd! Who would break into a secured building, go to a particular desk and destroy a particular Claim File. BS! Go get them!
I took an nasty head concussion while in the USAF (totally knocked out) suffering three fractures in the upper jaw. They told me the ringing would eventually go away. I was honorably discharged at the end of my term, but after I applied for my GI bill and the VA said "sorry your under the Veep program and your getting "nothing"!!! After that I didn't want to deal with the VA. It's been 30 years but the ringing has only gotten worse and I have had extrem cognitive issues processing information that has hurt me with employment. And yes I am depressed now having to live and sponge off my elderly father because I can't handle a job anymore. Thanks Uncle Sam, for nothing but pain and frustration.
Please don't give up, fight for what you deserve. I was granted 40% total on January 5, 2023 after 9 loooong years of fighting and received a little over $32,000 retro pay after my attorney got his 20%. It was actually $40,000 plus. I'm now working on secondary. I can't sleep due to back pain so I'm claiming insomnia. Also my anxiety has started back. I dread bedtime because I can't fall asleep and I've had several episodes of panic attacks as I lay here frustrated. Please stay strong and fight... You deserve it!❤🙏 I'm going to pray God's strength for you.🙏
As a female myself, I can tell you women in professional positions often underperform and then they blame it on gender inequality. Both of you women are completely the opposite. Kudos to the attorney for answering the questions well, and big kudos to the interviewer for asking all the questions us viewers wanted to know about!! Great video!
Been fighting the VA for depression for years and still getting turned down secondary to my 40% back rating I do I make sure to get it back dated correctly
I had been given meds for anxiety while still in the service. It took years to decide to file a claim, and the help I received amounted to which form numbers to file. It was 40 years after ETS that I heard about what a nexus letter is, from a you tube video. Next question,where are these doctors? Will that take another 40 years? This system is not vet friendly.
Hi Mike, yes, a Nexus letter can really help to support your claim. We have a great written blog about this that I have linked here www.hillandponton.com/how-to-make-sure-a-nexus-letter-effectively-supports-your-va-claim/ For more help with filing a claim, it would be best to consult a Veteran's Service Officer or Veteran's Advocacy Group as the VA stipulates that an attorney can only work in the appeals process. Thank you and we wish you the best.
I was med boarded and got 60% but I wasn’t allowed to add everything wrong with me. I’ve been out 2 years now, can I start a new claim with all my other issues to boost my rating?
When I got out in 88 I started hurting in my back when I was in I was hit by a 2.5 ton truck into a concrete wall.I just sucked up the pain and kept going had a lot of people pressuring to make a claim and get to the VA. I didnt feel right I figured other people needed more then me.well in the nintees after going to doctors and chiropractors I finally gave in I was denied for back and neck but 10 percent for tennitise well now I cant work and on state disability I tried to claim it again and last month denied again. Hope you can help me in my struggle.
I'm basically in the same situation as you and you have a big headache coming your way if you think the veterans administration is going to compensate you on your back. You have a long fight my friend and they will keep playing games with you. I went an got myself an attorney and they're playing the same games with him now asking for all different types of criteria that we already sent them. This is what they do they do their best to wear you out.
I tried and was denied and it made me believe I am not disabled so when I went to work at a fast food restaurant, everything came and hit me and I just couldn’t go to work and I had to quit. It made me upset because I wondered what’s my deal? My deal is I have a serious mental health issue and it’s time to acknowledge that and be compensated for the things if done
You are most definitely not alone. We see and hear very similar stories all the time. Responsible people who want to work but cannot due to mental health issues. Check out our video series with a licensed psychologist for learning what to expect with mental health claims and C&P exams here: ruclips.net/video/9_BdPGGp2Rg/видео.html
Good question Wen, so typically we recommend filing that initial claim with the help of a free Veterans Service Officer near your area. They can help you get started with your claims and show you which forms to fill out. We as attorneys can step in when a veteran has been denied benefits or given an incorrect disability rating or effective date.
@@HillAndPonton I hear about this a lot - attorneys stepping in only after a claim is denied. But isn't it just as important to provide evidence and supporting documentation for the initial claim, in which case, an attorney can be very helpful? Please explain.
@@tammyl.9254 Legally we cannot enter a fee agreement or contract with veterans who haven't filed a claim yet. This is something the VA has maintained. That's one of the reasons we release these videos for free. We know help is needed
It is hard not to be cynical with the VA's rating system, when it has been based upon denial all of these years...Denial about the dangers and life-threatening diseases caused by Agent Orange exposure, until the proof emerges and too many hapless veterans, who served there country with pride and honor, die without compensation and recognition. The only advice I can give, to add to the comments already made here, is to fight for your rights, in the same manner that you were trained to fight the "enemy" when you went through basic training.
c&p exams are 100% disgusting , last one was 5 hours long/ the examiner copied and pasted and repeated statements made by other CP examiners over the last 20 years from my records errors for PTSD / MST 25 years denied/ appealed denied Appeal , medical records , /social actions records / had to Attonrney’s, involved my congressman etc!. Just went to BVA hearing . To hear the Judge tell me that the DRO in my regional office should have finished my claim in 2018 / and in 2018 the DRO said it was out of his jurisdiction to give retro / effective date back to 1996 that the BVA had the means to do. After 23 years first time ever did my claim For PTSD/MST get called by their names and put on/ in the records as such! And was told that clear and unmistakable errors was found ....this story of this veteran has been rehashed, retold , for now 25 years to be told March 16 , 2020 BVA hearing in Washington DC, again be told BVA is in disagreement with The DRO at Winston Salem VA This will be rehashed again . Why Why! Another 6- years to wait! You have no idea the cry’s, the anguish, SUiCIDE attempts 16 / there is not enough space here to write/repeat repeat every detail of details etc etc!!
I am so sorry to hear about your struggles. Do you currently have an open claim? Please feel free to give us a call at 386-257-2100 to see if we may be able to assist. Thank you.
I hurt my back in the army but it was minor at the time and I didn't go to the clinic now I am going into surgery 20 years later. Can I file even if it's not on record?
What if you got a decision and settled bc you didn't rock the boat and it wasn't until years later that you learned you were lowballed? How does one file in that case?
I'm U.S. army vet, i'm currently at 90% and i have 70% from ptsd. my question is Do i claim Migraine separately or do i apply that as secondary to my PTSD. I get Migraine from my anxiety and depression that it's hard for me to sleep at night and focus during that day.
Can you give me advice on applying? I need to apply for a hip impingement and PTSD, Im close to losing my job over both and need VA disability. I’ve gathered medical records and I’ll receive my old army medical records by mail soon. Im having people who know me writer buddy statements corroborating my condition as well. Anything I should know before starting?
Depends on if you complained of headaches in service. However if you claim secondary, the VA technically should address direct theory of entitlement. If you are a SWA vet, you could try that route as well.
I need help with my VA benefits case, I have been jerked around since I was aproved 100% in May and began to receive my benefits in July 2001, in January 2003 the VA assigned a custodian to my case, she lasted 1 year, and managed to steal approximately $20,000 from me and the VA didn't do nothing in the matter, so she got the VA permission to keep my money, then they assign a second custodian as of March 2004 through October 26, 2015 when she had a stoke, she was mailed a check for a large sum of money, that legally belonged to me, which I never received any of the payment from a class action lawsuit, and again the VA assigned a third custodian in December 2015 up to March 2017 when I was reevaluated 100% competent to handle my money. But June 2019 I received $140.00 and since July I have not received a check for a cent, I did receive a letter in May 2019, that as of July the VA will withhold $145.00 because of a overpayment, but without any notice they decided to keep the whole amount of my check and the worst part of it, is that I haven't found not one person to help me with the matter in which has put a tremendous burden on me, and a continues hardship, to the point of being evicted, no funds, no food, no transportation, I am hanging up by a thread, at my witts end. My name is Elizabeth Rivera , I can be reach at (310) 912-9986 hopefully someone can and is able to help get my life back, after all this has been my only source of income since 2001. Tania Tamargo is my daughter.
Thank you for the question, no we don't work pro bono but do not have any upfront fees. Our fee is 30% of the retroactive benefits paid and we work on a contingency basis, if we do not win you don't owe us anything.
I am a Veteran honerable discharge in 2001. I have documentation on nerve damage in both my elbows and I have PTSD. My PCP is the VA. Any suggestions on the route I need to take on disability?
@Ashton Shaw: I see you did not get an answer. Here is my non-VSO / non-attorney response which I hope will help. Same basic rules for all Direct Service Connection Claims: 1) medical proof that your disability is "Service Connected," and has a nexus (link) from active duty to current condition. 2) Evidence supporting the extent of disability, e.g. #1 caused you to use a device to keep breathing, that without the device you have "X" apnic events per hour / night, as a result of the sleep apnea you cannot hold a regular job or had to change to a lesser paid job, etc. "Evidence" often ignored by the VA until higher authority or appeal level review is your statement in support of your claim, statements of others in support of your claim (e.g. sleeping partner, "buddy" from active duty recalling the time youi inhaled toxic materials, etc.) #3) ... sorry, my mind just went blank on the 3rd leg of the BEAT VA AT THEIR OWN GAME stool. Hopefully you can get a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) that can help, or get geared up to be your own advocate by watching every Hill and Ponton and "Combat Craig" RUclips video. DO NOT GIVE UP! All the best.
I have a disability for anxiety disorder and insomnia. My question is can I file for PTSD wc is on my medical record at my private doctors diagnosis. I’ve been seen by a psychiatrist for almost 2 years and I’m taking medicine a narcotic pills since 1990. The VA claims agent says it’s the same as anxiety disorder which I have already as a disability. Is he right?
You can file for PTSD, just make sure your PTSD is related to some traumatic event that occurred in a combat zone or is combat related. You'll need to know time frames of when the traumatic event occurred.
I was involuntarily separated from the Air force 20 years ago after reporting being bullied and harassed which caused me severe anxiety and ptsd. It was an honorable discharge that was labeled as a personality disorder and they have denied me and I feel helpless and violated. I don't know what else I can do
@Mina Motivates: over 30 years ago, my sister, who was a brilliant doctor and a disabled veteran herself, did the impossible for a veteran in a similar situation. All the veteran service officers told us that it was “absolutely impossible to ever get a diagnosis of “personality disorder” overturned and that it had never been done”. But my sister did it! I will try to explain her winning strategy: The veteran she helped was a nurse who had succumbed to a major depression and was misdiagnosed with personality disorder and honorably discharged, which left her with no VA benefits whatsoever because she had been in less than 2 years. So my sister took all her medical records and she looked at all the psychiatric criteria for each diagnosis that had been tossed around for her. Then she made a spreadsheet chart with all the criteria for the different diagnoses across the top and all the diagnoses down the side, since there is some overlap between them all. Then she went through the records writing on the chart each date and time a symptom was noted and each time a diagnosis was mentioned. Using the Air Force’s own documentation, she was able to map out that they had fully documented the pattern for Major depression and NOT a personality disorder!!! She submitted this information to the VA in an appeal and she WON for the veteran a 10% service connected rating! The reason this is huge is that now the veteran had her veteran status restored, now the VA would pay for her medication and the rating of 10% could always be appealed for a higher rating. Sadly, my dear sister was never able to win her own disability claim for “service aggravation” for chemical sensitivities. Only now are veterans beginning to win such claims. But the VA waited until she was dead. She helped me win 40% with the Air Force, which I appealed up to 100% with the VA. When I won, I wept because she never won her appeals. At least I take comfort that she is not suffering anymore. And I know nothing would make her happier than for you to win with her strategy. If I can help answer questions or explain what she did better, let me know. I am so glad I saw your comment. I would be thrilled to have helped you have real hope and to see you do the “impossible”, too. I wish you all the best.
@@minamotivates you are absolutely welcome! Something I forgot to specify is that my sister used the criteria from the Psychiatric “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV”, or the “DSM IV” which by now has probably been revised and is another volume number. The point is, she used the exact criteria the military had claimed to have used. That’s very important. Something else, probably the reason your claim was denied is because personality disorder is considered inherited and therefore not service connected. So the huge task is to prove it is a misdiagnosis, and that’s what my sister achieved with her strategy. I would love to know when you succeed, but I know it takes a long time to get answers.
My boyfriend has a 70% rating for depression and anxiety but he keeps telling me that he is sure it’s ptsd. The symptoms are so closely related but it seems that ptsd is easier to get the proper rating. Does it benefit him to be evaluated for ptsd for a 100% rating?
The VA can only give one psych evaluation percentage if granted. At this point, it is more about the severity of his psych symptoms than what his psych diagnosis is, from what you are saying. It won't hurt to put a claim in for PTSD, but a PTSD diagnosis itself won't pay better unless his psych symptoms have gotten worse.
Hello. Does a secondary condition have to show in your Medical Record ? My rating was 30% now it’s 70% for my back. But my left side of my neck, shoulder and foot pain due to my back Am I eligible for a secondary condition ? I am afraid to go back to VA Bcus I assuming they will take my 70% away
Hi there, sorry for the delay. You can give us a call at 800-257-4400 or request a free case evaluation here: www.hillandponton.com/free-case-evaluation/va-evaluation/
We charge nothing upfront and only charge 30% of the retroactive benefits awarded (the back pay lump sum). If we lose, nothing is owed to our firm. We do not touch any of the monthly benefits moving forward.
What about when you have Severe Stemach Problems then you get a Letter in the Mail and says, Oh by the way while you were ate Camp Lejeune you Drank POISON Water from 1983-1986
Hi Kerry, it may be possible that they are service connected. For help filing an initial claim, it would be best to consult a Veteran's Service Officer or Veteran's Advocacy Group. Thank you for watching.
My husband passed 2 years ago. Im trying to file his claim as a spouse, now widow, to get what a widow suppose to get what we are owed. I'm fighting for my husband's pay for what VA DIDNT give him . He was suppose to get the fullest amount, an I have in black an white saying VA appolitgizes for there mistake . After getting his records of everything happened to him . VA sent me this letter, but my husband passed, carcinoid liver cancer got to him, he couldn't hold on. All Doctors knew this, he went to a bunch of them .I have all kinds of proof
First mistake applying unless your a seasoned paper pusher. Too much bullshit applying and filling out appeal forms. People applying are disabled how the hell does va expect person to understand and fill out lengthy forms.
I am sorry for the trouble you are having. Local organizations exist to help with this type of filing and paperwork. Places like the VFW, DAV, etc. You can also find local Veteran Service Officers by Googling VSO near me. They can possibly provide knowledge on your options.
Could the speaker’s doing this look toward the audience you are speaking too .You both are very hard to understand over talking each other, saying yeah instead of yes.
Another great interview with lots of encouraging news for those of us struggling with the initial filing. I am mostly angry with myself for not appealing the 2004 denial of PTSD. So this time I am coming with TWO letters including diagnoses and nexus as evidence, which I recognize will be ignored by the Regional Office but set up my forthcoming decade(s) of appeal. What an awful system!
Thanks for the video and info...a vet should never give up on their claims and get help if needed...I won my case after 38 years and got back pay(huge$$$$) for 38 years......I went from 20% to 100% P&T.
Hey Tom, I always see you post on Brian Reese and Combat Craig's channel. Congrats on the 100% P&T.. I'm working towards my 100%
@@P8860 good luck and be proactive and have a strategy on how to get there...you will.
@@P8860 What is P&T?
@@alanfreeman7374 it is permanent & total.
I've gone to multiple veteran organizations to get help with claims. VOS just tell me print out this form. Fill it out and send it in. I even quite my local VFW due to not getting any help with Disability issues. I'm 80% with VA and on SS Disability. My SS Disability is from my Service connected issues. Well Tom glad you were able to get what you deserved. I'm sure that back pay $ was pretty sweet.
Wow I made the mistake of not filing for secondary service connected disability - so glad I found you... I contacted your office yesterday
Did you need a nexus
@@supasav6667 I see you didn't get a reply: I believe the answer is "YES" you need a Nexus Letter linking the Service connected disability with the secondary disability. I am treating the secondary sleep apnea with the same amount of effort as the direct PTSD. Just make sure you are setting up your appeals from the very beginning. Some helpers recommend "Higher Level Review" before filing appeal to the Board of Veterans Appeals because BVA has been allowed to virtually come to a stand still with multi-year delays before they even hear our appeals.
@@donalddodson7365 thanks
I am working on recovering from these mistakes. Thank you for providing information to help everyone in this battle. I wish that I could afford to hire an attorney.
Most VA-accredited attorneys, like us, charge nothing upfront, Robert. We work on a contingency fee meaning we only charge when and if we win the case.
@@HillAndPonton thank you for this information. I will go to the website and fill out the form. Maybe I will qualify.
@@HillAndPonton I didn’t meet the requirements to speak to someone. So I will re visit when I can.
I had lung cancer at age 42 in 1988. I served in USAF for 4 years including American Occupied Okinawa, Japan. I lived in old barracks in Texas, Okinawa and Florida for 4 years all with asbestos including lead and asbestos in paint. I was honorable discharged in 1971 and in 1988 was diagnosed with lung cancer and the pulmonologist at the time said the best way to go is to have a total R Lung Pneumonectomy and I did that. I did not file a claim with VA back then due to ignorance and I was young with a good job after recovery. I just had my bladder and prostate removed in May 2023 and I am now filing for the cancer and residuals. I am doing it myself. I filed intent on Sept 3 and almost ready to submit. I did a lot of research and decided not to hire VSO or a coach, etc. I am hoping to get TDIU as with an Ostomy and severed COPD now I cant work. I live in Cape Canaveral and will get help if I have to appeal. m
A little piece of advice for veterans. Do not get out of military with a honorable discharge. Always file a medical discharge when your EOC date is up. I broke my back, hip and have severe ptsd. It took 10 years to get 20%. A civilian doctor rated me at 70% and I only got 10% from the VA. I spent a 8 years of my youth in the middle east. Then 10 to try to get 100 bucks. Literally a spit in the face if you ask me.
I'm sorry to hear about your struggles. Do you currently have an open claim? If so, please feel free to give us a call at 386-257-2100. Thank you.
No way, honorable is the move man if you’re not broken
I disagree with medical discharge. I was rated for 90 percent one year after filing. Do your research into how to win with what you developed in the military. Never give up.
I was rated 70% UNEMPLOYABLE which automatically boosts me to 100%.
@@gokaren420 hi, what made it unemployable if you don’t mind me asking
Im a reader. I filed my own claim. (Would not recommend). Im at 100 p and t. It is incredibly difficult to understand all the issues. Getting all the right documents, etc....DONT GIVE UP!
I filed all my forms. Initial to my 100% P&T in 2019 by myself. Was super easy. .
Greetings and thanks for this great post. I'm at the beginning stages of applying for VA benefits years after service and am in need of guidance????
Made my claim directly the day I separated and got a call from a guy that was a regional claim personnel in St Pete, FL 10 months later. He said his name was Lee. Lee called Me to inform me my claim was LOST. It was on his desk and then it wasn’t. I asked where it went. He said I misunderstood. That it got to his desk and it wasn’t on his desk anymore. I asked for his manager and was told I could not ask for his or her last names or be told where my claim went. They told me to refile. I found my original claim paperwork. What do I do?!
Also my dept lied saying they took care of my dental needs prior to separation. And I brought up my sleep studies and they disregarded my needs prior to my separation. I was literally just shown the door with sign here and here
@Davey Jones: I see that you did not get a reply. My non-VSO / non-attorney suggestion is you file as if you never filed before, and cite that the original date of submission WILL be the determining effective date since it is not hyour fault the VA "lost" your file. Set your mind for a long battle. The VA is the enemy. They absolutely do NOT assist you with your claims. Consider interviewing VSO's, most of whom are kind of dim but nice old people wanting to help out. Also, if you want to learn more, consider watching everything "Combat Craig" has on RUclips. He is very knowledgeable and makes an excellent case that we need to become our initial advocates. DO NOT GIVE UP! They must have been really convinced you had a great claim not to even deny it. "Losing it" is absolutely absurd! Who would break into a secured building, go to a particular desk and destroy a particular Claim File. BS! Go get them!
Good content. Audio is a little weak. They need to be miked up.
I made the first mistake because females that experienced MST were DISAPPEARED or shunned and humiliated.
Very true. Hopefully you have gotten justice now
MST?
@@dave-yj9mc military sexual trauma
@@GandalftheWise What is that? Military Sexual Trauma?
@@dave-yj9mc usually means rape
They make it so hard to file these claims. It's crazy
No kidding, Larry 😫
Is there a walkthrough on paperwork? Literally the only thing i need is guidance on filling out forms.
I took an nasty head concussion while in the USAF (totally knocked out) suffering three fractures in the upper jaw. They told me the ringing would eventually go away. I was honorably discharged at the end of my term, but after I applied for my GI bill and the VA said "sorry your under the Veep program and your getting "nothing"!!! After that I didn't want to deal with the VA. It's been 30 years but the ringing has only gotten worse and I have had extrem cognitive issues processing information that has hurt me with employment. And yes I am depressed now having to live and sponge off my elderly father because I can't handle a job anymore. Thanks Uncle Sam, for nothing but pain and frustration.
I hope they help you
You deserve better. Did you appeal?
File a claum....watch youtuber combat Craig to get inspired . Did they put you in the hospital?
I got awarded 0% right after I filed for it. I gave up. As of right now 01/25/2022 I am trying to reopen the case. Please pray for me.
I hope you get it
At least you get some benefits with 0%.
@@tammyl.9254 Yeah but they’re supposed to help if you got hurt from serving
Please don't give up, fight for what you deserve. I was granted 40% total on January 5, 2023 after 9 loooong years of fighting and received a little over $32,000 retro pay after my attorney got his 20%. It was actually $40,000 plus. I'm now working on secondary. I can't sleep due to back pain so I'm claiming insomnia. Also my anxiety has started back. I dread bedtime because I can't fall asleep and I've had several episodes of panic attacks as I lay here frustrated. Please stay strong and fight... You deserve it!❤🙏 I'm going to pray God's strength for you.🙏
As a female myself, I can tell you women in professional positions often underperform and then they blame it on gender inequality. Both of you women are completely the opposite. Kudos to the attorney for answering the questions well, and big kudos to the interviewer for asking all the questions us viewers wanted to know about!! Great video!
I respect the honesty
Been fighting the VA for depression for years and still getting turned down secondary to my 40% back rating I do I make sure to get it back dated correctly
I had been given meds for anxiety while still in the service. It took years to decide to file a claim, and the help I received amounted to which form numbers to file. It was 40 years after ETS that I heard about what a nexus letter is, from a you tube video. Next question,where are these doctors? Will that take another 40 years? This system is not vet friendly.
Hi Mike, yes, a Nexus letter can really help to support your claim. We have a great written blog about this that I have linked here www.hillandponton.com/how-to-make-sure-a-nexus-letter-effectively-supports-your-va-claim/ For more help with filing a claim, it would be best to consult a Veteran's Service Officer or Veteran's Advocacy Group as the VA stipulates that an attorney can only work in the appeals process. Thank you and we wish you the best.
That's for the video great 👌 information!
Glad you think so!
I was med boarded and got 60% but I wasn’t allowed to add everything wrong with me. I’ve been out 2 years now, can I start a new claim with all my other issues to boost my rating?
When I got out in 88 I started hurting in my back when I was in I was hit by a 2.5 ton truck into a concrete wall.I just sucked up the pain and kept going had a lot of people pressuring to make a claim and get to the VA. I didnt feel right I figured other people needed more then me.well in the nintees after going to doctors and chiropractors I finally gave in I was denied for back and neck but 10 percent for tennitise well now I cant work and on state disability I tried to claim it again and last month denied again. Hope you can help me in my struggle.
You’re injury had to have happened while u were active duty. Did u hurt your back after u got out?
I'm basically in the same situation as you and you have a big headache coming your way if you think the veterans administration is going to compensate you on your back. You have a long fight my friend and they will keep playing games with you. I went an got myself an attorney and they're playing the same games with him now asking for all different types of criteria that we already sent them. This is what they do they do their best to wear you out.
How many claims can you submit to the VA? Is it one claim at a time or can you claim multiple claims?
Hi Johnny, good question. You are able to submit more than one claim if you desire.
@@HillAndPonton Thank you!
I tried and was denied and it made me believe I am not disabled so when I went to work at a fast food restaurant, everything came and hit me and I just couldn’t go to work and I had to quit. It made me upset because I wondered what’s my deal?
My deal is I have a serious mental health issue and it’s time to acknowledge that and be compensated for the things if done
You are most definitely not alone. We see and hear very similar stories all the time. Responsible people who want to work but cannot due to mental health issues. Check out our video series with a licensed psychologist for learning what to expect with mental health claims and C&P exams here: ruclips.net/video/9_BdPGGp2Rg/видео.html
Great information
When we file a claim, should we hire an attorney for the process? Im not sure what the steps are
Good question Wen, so typically we recommend filing that initial claim with the help of a free Veterans Service Officer near your area. They can help you get started with your claims and show you which forms to fill out. We as attorneys can step in when a veteran has been denied benefits or given an incorrect disability rating or effective date.
@@HillAndPonton I hear about this a lot - attorneys stepping in only after a claim is denied. But isn't it just as important to provide evidence and supporting documentation for the initial claim, in which case, an attorney can be very helpful? Please explain.
@@tammyl.9254 Legally we cannot enter a fee agreement or contract with veterans who haven't filed a claim yet. This is something the VA has maintained. That's one of the reasons we release these videos for free. We know help is needed
Why do Va ask for info they know you don't have or can't recall with ptsd
Detailed info..... one example.... geees... i got stressed so much just trying to write my stressor down that Im going on 2 years....
S MH
To deny our asses. SOBs..
How can I apply and be awarded TDIU? I am currently working with a bad back and am only receiving 60% for this so I have to keep pushing through.
Can you make a claim while still in the IRR?
Tie goes to the veteran with IMO, 50 / 50, at least as likely as not that condition was caused by service
Good information which helps my case.
It is hard not to be cynical with the VA's rating system, when it has been based upon denial all of these years...Denial about the dangers and life-threatening diseases caused by Agent Orange exposure, until the proof emerges and too many hapless veterans, who served there country with pride and honor, die without compensation and recognition. The only advice I can give, to add
to the comments already made here, is to fight for your rights, in the same manner that you were trained to fight the "enemy" when you went through basic training.
On the flipside, think about all the veteran's who embellish their injuries to get the highest rating possible.
c&p exams are 100% disgusting , last one was 5 hours long/ the examiner copied and pasted and repeated statements made by other CP examiners over the last 20 years from my records errors for PTSD /
MST 25 years denied/ appealed denied Appeal , medical records , /social actions records / had to Attonrney’s, involved my congressman etc!. Just went to BVA hearing . To hear the Judge tell me that the DRO in my regional office should have finished my claim in 2018 / and in 2018 the DRO said it was out of his jurisdiction to give retro / effective date back to 1996 that the BVA had the means to do. After 23 years first time ever did my claim For PTSD/MST get called by their names and put on/ in the records as such! And was told that clear and unmistakable errors was found ....this story of this veteran has been rehashed, retold , for now 25 years to be told March 16 , 2020 BVA hearing in Washington DC, again be told BVA is in disagreement with The DRO at Winston Salem VA This will be rehashed again . Why Why! Another 6- years to wait! You have no idea the cry’s, the anguish, SUiCIDE attempts 16 / there is not enough space here to write/repeat repeat every detail of details etc etc!!
I am so sorry to hear about your struggles. Do you currently have an open claim? Please feel free to give us a call at 386-257-2100 to see if we may be able to assist. Thank you.
My senior killed him self coming back from Afghanistan keep your head up 1/9 USMC.. he’s not the only one. Semper Fi
Same here.
I hurt my back in the army but it was minor at the time and I didn't go to the clinic now I am going into surgery 20 years later. Can I file even if it's not on record?
Watch combat Craig RUclips
What if you got a decision and settled bc you didn't rock the boat and it wasn't until years later that you learned you were lowballed? How does one file in that case?
Whats the 1, 2,3 steps. Where do I go, who do I tell
Is it okay if I ask the examiner if I may take notes during the c&p exam?
It’s your exam. Bring a note pad and pen. Take notes.
The sound is a bit distorted. Had to turn my tv almost all the way up.
Thank you for this ifo you gave...
I'm U.S. army vet, i'm currently at 90% and i have 70% from ptsd. my question is Do i claim Migraine separately or do i apply that as secondary to my PTSD. I get Migraine from my anxiety and depression that it's hard for me to sleep at night and focus during that day.
Secondary to PTSD
Can you give me advice on applying? I need to apply for a hip impingement and PTSD, Im close to losing my job over both and need VA disability. I’ve gathered medical records and I’ll receive my old army medical records by mail soon. Im having people who know me writer buddy statements corroborating my condition as well. Anything I should know before starting?
Depends on if you complained of headaches in service. However if you claim secondary, the VA technically should address direct theory of entitlement. If you are a SWA vet, you could try that route as well.
I dont have money for attorneys, do you do pro bono cases for veterans?
I need help with my VA benefits case, I have been jerked around since I was aproved 100% in May and began to receive my benefits in July 2001, in January 2003 the VA assigned a custodian to my case, she lasted 1 year, and managed to steal approximately $20,000 from me and the VA didn't do nothing in the matter, so she got the VA permission to keep my money, then they assign a second custodian as of March 2004 through October 26, 2015 when she had a stoke, she was mailed a check for a large sum of money, that legally belonged to me, which I never received any of the payment from a class action lawsuit, and again the VA assigned a third custodian in December 2015 up to March 2017 when I was reevaluated 100% competent to handle my money. But June 2019 I received $140.00 and since July I have not received a check for a cent, I did receive a letter in May 2019, that as of July the VA will withhold $145.00 because of a overpayment, but without any notice they decided to keep the whole amount of my check and the worst part of it, is that I haven't found not one person to help me with the matter in which has put a tremendous burden on me, and a continues hardship, to the point of being evicted, no funds, no food, no transportation, I am hanging up by a thread, at my witts end. My name is Elizabeth Rivera , I can be reach at (310) 912-9986 hopefully someone can and is able to help get my life back, after all this has been my only source of income since 2001. Tania Tamargo is my daughter.
Thank you for the question, no we don't work pro bono but do not have any upfront fees. Our fee is 30% of the retroactive benefits paid and we work on a contingency basis, if we do not win you don't owe us anything.
Why would they help veterans for free? Lol just like everyone else they like vets but they like your money alot more
Hi! I retire from the military in 1.5 years. When should I start my VA claim?
Document everything now :) then go to vso soon
Now!!!!!!
I am a Veteran honerable discharge in 2001. I have documentation on nerve damage in both my elbows and I have PTSD. My PCP is the VA. Any suggestions on the route I need to take on disability?
What about obstructive sleep apnea as a primary issue?
@Ashton Shaw: I see you did not get an answer. Here is my non-VSO / non-attorney response which I hope will help. Same basic rules for all Direct Service Connection Claims: 1) medical proof that your disability is "Service Connected," and has a nexus (link) from active duty to current condition. 2) Evidence supporting the extent of disability, e.g. #1 caused you to use a device to keep breathing, that without the device you have "X" apnic events per hour / night, as a result of the sleep apnea you cannot hold a regular job or had to change to a lesser paid job, etc. "Evidence" often ignored by the VA until higher authority or appeal level review is your statement in support of your claim, statements of others in support of your claim (e.g. sleeping partner, "buddy" from active duty recalling the time youi inhaled toxic materials, etc.) #3) ... sorry, my mind just went blank on the 3rd leg of the BEAT VA AT THEIR OWN GAME stool. Hopefully you can get a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) that can help, or get geared up to be your own advocate by watching every Hill and Ponton and "Combat Craig" RUclips video. DO NOT GIVE UP! All the best.
If I received separation pay when I was discharged from the military20 some years ago would that affect any claim Im putting in
Yes youll have to pay it back before you start collecting. But that is ok, it might take a year or two but after its paid youll recieve your check.
They may not even have record of your sep pay.
If it was instead of compensation it may be a problem.
Hey all im less than a year from ETS, what all hurdles have y'all faced with VA, I want to ensure I have some initiative dealing with this beast.
I have a disability for anxiety disorder and insomnia. My question is can I file for PTSD wc is on my medical record at my private doctors diagnosis. I’ve been seen by a psychiatrist for almost 2 years and I’m taking medicine a narcotic pills since 1990. The VA claims agent says it’s the same as anxiety disorder which I have already as a disability. Is he right?
You can file for PTSD, just make sure your PTSD is related to some traumatic event that occurred in a combat zone or is combat related. You'll need to know time frames of when the traumatic event occurred.
Sure you can file for it but, they will just laugh and bury it somewhere
Do you currently have an open claim? If so, please feel free to give us a call at 386-257-2100. Thank you.
@@noncustody Also I might add that it does not always have to be a combat zone. You can also file for PTSD even if you were never in combat.
@@noncustody it doesn’t have to be combat related u are giving wrong info
Will u help me file. I lost my mom and brother in one week I am had in hard time focus ing they owe me back pay. 2 tux sos etc etc
I was involuntarily separated from the Air force 20 years ago after reporting being bullied and harassed which caused me severe anxiety and ptsd. It was an honorable discharge that was labeled as a personality disorder and they have denied me and I feel helpless and violated. I don't know what else I can do
@Mina Motivates: over 30 years ago, my sister, who was a brilliant doctor and a disabled veteran herself, did the impossible for a veteran in a similar situation. All the veteran service officers told us that it was “absolutely impossible to ever get a diagnosis of “personality disorder” overturned and that it had never been done”. But my sister did it! I will try to explain her winning strategy:
The veteran she helped was a nurse who had succumbed to a major depression and was misdiagnosed with personality disorder and honorably discharged, which left her with no VA benefits whatsoever because she had been in less than 2 years.
So my sister took all her medical records and she looked at all the psychiatric criteria for each diagnosis that had been tossed around for her. Then she made a spreadsheet chart with all the criteria for the different diagnoses across the top and all the diagnoses down the side, since there is some overlap between them all. Then she went through the records writing on the chart each date and time a symptom was noted and each time a diagnosis was mentioned. Using the Air Force’s own documentation, she was able to map out that they had fully documented the pattern for Major depression and NOT a personality disorder!!! She submitted this information to the VA in an appeal and she WON for the veteran a 10% service connected rating!
The reason this is huge is that now the veteran had her veteran status restored, now the VA would pay for her medication and the rating of 10% could always be appealed for a higher rating.
Sadly, my dear sister was never able to win her own disability claim for “service aggravation” for chemical sensitivities. Only now are veterans beginning to win such claims. But the VA waited until she was dead. She helped me win 40% with the Air Force, which I appealed up to 100% with the VA. When I won, I wept because she never won her appeals. At least I take comfort that she is not suffering anymore. And I know nothing would make her happier than for you to win with her strategy.
If I can help answer questions or explain what she did better, let me know. I am so glad I saw your comment. I would be thrilled to have helped you have real hope and to see you do the “impossible”, too. I wish you all the best.
@@fabergeartist5273 thanks so much for this! ❤️❤️❤️
@@minamotivates you are absolutely welcome! Something I forgot to specify is that my sister used the criteria from the Psychiatric “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV”, or the “DSM IV” which by now has probably been revised and is another volume number. The point is, she used the exact criteria the military had claimed to have used. That’s very important.
Something else, probably the reason your claim was denied is because personality disorder is considered inherited and therefore not service connected. So the huge task is to prove it is a misdiagnosis, and that’s what my sister achieved with her strategy. I would love to know when you succeed, but I know it takes a long time to get answers.
My boyfriend has a 70% rating for depression and anxiety but he keeps telling me that he is sure it’s ptsd. The symptoms are so closely related but it seems that ptsd is easier to get the proper rating. Does it benefit him to be evaluated for ptsd for a 100% rating?
The VA can only give one psych evaluation percentage if granted. At this point, it is more about the severity of his psych symptoms than what his psych diagnosis is, from what you are saying. It won't hurt to put a claim in for PTSD, but a PTSD diagnosis itself won't pay better unless his psych symptoms have gotten worse.
What is a NEXUS?
This room setting creates an echo that makes it hard to understand
If u at 100% can u still file a claim?
How can i contact you guys, i need some help
Ok i will, today..
Another Mistake is NOT HIGHERING A LAWYER!! The VSO's are there to STOP you from getting your Compensation!!!
So, its best to do my own claim? because I'm literally searching for a VSO right now to do my
Yeah, I never quite understood why you'd want to work with a VSO - sounds like somewhat of a conflicting interest.
I thought depression could not be secondary as it was absorbed under ptsd as the primary dx.
So If I understand correctly. One can have ptsd as the P.DX and depression as the S.DX?
Hello. Does a secondary condition have to show in your Medical Record ?
My rating was 30% now it’s 70% for my back. But my left side of my neck, shoulder and foot pain due to my back
Am I eligible for a secondary condition ? I am afraid to go back to VA Bcus I assuming they will take my 70% away
How can I hire you for my husband? He appealed his percentage and got denied for sleep apnea and has given up. He is currently rated for 3 things
Hi there, sorry for the delay. You can give us a call at 800-257-4400 or request a free case evaluation here: www.hillandponton.com/free-case-evaluation/va-evaluation/
Info on obtaining a nexus leter
Hi David, I have linked more information from our blog about Nexus Letters here www.hillandponton.com/doctor-write-letter-va/
How much do you charge to bring me from 80 to 100 percent
We charge nothing upfront and only charge 30% of the retroactive benefits awarded (the back pay lump sum). If we lose, nothing is owed to our firm. We do not touch any of the monthly benefits moving forward.
What about when you have Severe Stemach Problems then you get a Letter in the Mail and says, Oh by the way while you were ate Camp Lejeune you Drank POISON Water from 1983-1986
Hi Kerry, it may be possible that they are service connected. For help filing an initial claim, it would be best to consult a Veteran's Service Officer or Veteran's Advocacy Group. Thank you for watching.
Audio is kinda rough.
@@HillAndPonton
Great 🙂👍
My husband passed 2 years ago. Im trying to file his claim as a spouse, now widow, to get what a widow suppose to get what we are owed. I'm fighting for my husband's pay for what VA DIDNT give him . He was suppose to get the fullest amount, an I have in black an white saying VA appolitgizes for there mistake . After getting his records of everything happened to him . VA sent me this letter, but my husband passed, carcinoid liver cancer got to him, he couldn't hold on. All Doctors knew this, he went to a bunch of them .I have all kinds of proof
First mistake applying unless your a seasoned paper pusher. Too much bullshit applying and filling out appeal forms. People applying are disabled how the hell does va expect person to understand and fill out lengthy forms.
I am sorry for the trouble you are having. Local organizations exist to help with this type of filing and paperwork. Places like the VFW, DAV, etc. You can also find local Veteran Service Officers by Googling VSO near me. They can possibly provide knowledge on your options.
Why do they make it so hard for veterans? Thought this country cared about their veterans
Could the speaker’s doing this look toward the audience you are speaking too .You both are very hard to understand over talking each other, saying yeah instead of yes.
You should be making your statements to the veteran not the other lady, vidio needs to be repaid with better audio.