You are one of the best at helping your fellow veterans out with this difficult disability claims process and we really appreciate you taking the time away from your family to help educate us, thanks from the bottom of heart for all that you are doing. 😊
Dude, thank you!! I really appreciate this. Knowing the information (which in fully believe some creators are bologna) and articulating the information are 2 different skill sets. I’m actually an instructor in my real job and all I do all day is teach concepts to adults so this is natural. - Clay
This was exactly what i needed. The VSO and DAV were making this really complicated while being extremely rude. Man this is a life saver now i know how to do it. I have all my evidence!!! WoooHooo!
Thanks for the tips. My VSO hasn't called back in 3 months and I'm just going to submit my secondary claims myself. Even my providers have suggested it.
Thnx for the video how-to, wished I could have found this when I had filed for my secondary. I goofed up on it so I got a letter coming back stating I needed to file on a "proper form".
Well, sometimes these can also be supplemental claims. I’m assuming that’s your case and you’re going to want to check this out. If not, disregard. ruclips.net/video/S8qSol-zUuo/видео.html - Clay
Awesome video Clay, thanks for what you do for the veteran community! Quick question, when submitting a fully developed claim, is it recommended to upload all the documentation while filing the claim or use quick submit after filing it? Also, is there a specific naming convention for the files we are uploading that we should follow? e.g. "Lay statement_Vet Name_last 4_claimed condition"
Thank you! For a FDC, assuming you’re doing your own claim and not using a VSO…I prefer using Quick Submit. So submit the claim, then use quick submit. As far as naming conventions, simple and basic. Examples: “PTSD lay-statement” “PTSD DBQ” “PTSD IMO” “PTSD STR” “PTSD VAMC” “PTSD Private Healthcare” - Clay
Great video. I just recieved my initial rating this week. Im doing a supplemental claim for allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis both 0% Im also filling a secondary claim overactive bladder due to lumbar sprain. Can I submit them together or it has to be seperate claims
I keep watching this video bro. My recent claim mess up bY VSO I’ll filed last may 9, then when I call VA they told me that nothing is filed, they want me to go back to VSO to check again. I just need to learn your video tutorial how to file claim I hope I can do right.Thanks again
If you have any questions, let me know. This is for increases and secondaries. In the playlist you’ll find initial claims, supplemental claims, and how to upload evidence. - Clay
Been out for a couple month now. Don't really feel disabled but I do have ringing in my ears and sleeping issues. However I never went to medical for them. Only have knees and back issues on file. Friend told me to go and file a claim anyway. Should I go to a VSO or research more and do it on my own?
Both. As of right now it sounds like your claims are: Tinnitus Back pain Knee pain For knees is it both? Right? Left? You’re going to want to do some research at a minimum on those 3. I’d also recommend looking at your service and digging deep into any complaint you may have AND, that you’re able to get a current diagnosis for. I’d also look at your deployments and years of service for presumptive conditions that you can get a current diagnosis for. - Clay
@@TheCivDiv Thanks for the quick reply. I still have a statement from base police that said I fell asleep on the wheel and caused a crash. Will that help with proving I have insomnia while in along with getting a current diagnosis by a doctor?
Great content, getting ready to do this myself. I just got done with my appointment with Dr. Sharma and he had provided a great IMO and DBQ in my opinion. I emailed a couple of questions about it, your thoughts on how i should proceed would be appreciated.
Your videos are great. What is the next step after submission? If you have seen the VA doc after your submission, is their a way to upload the additional documents
Next step after submitting a claim. Look up how the VA rates those conditions. Let me know here and I’ll see what I can do for you. Will your ‘new’ evidence be used in your VA Claim after you submit that claim? It depends on timeframe. When did you submit the claim and when did you get this ‘new’ evidence? To be honest, regardless I would upload the new evidence using quick submit. Here’s how to use quick submit: ruclips.net/video/Rtfv6jPEdF4/видео.htmlsi=RZKPbuqAPswjKj4W - Clay
Simply put obesity in the box to claim. Assuming your evidence is solid and the connection is there, of course. It’s just like every other claim minus the compensable piece. - Clay
Hello. I received a 10% service connection rating for rhinitis (without polyps). I have until September to appeal for an increase. I made an appointment with my doctor for bad allergies. If my doctor give me a diagnosis of rhinitis with polyps, can I file a supplemental claim? Is this new findings/diagnosis relevant evidence for my rating increase? Will VA send me to another Compensation and Pension exam when I submit a supplemental claim with new and relevant evidence? Thank you.
What is the criteria for filing on an already established service connected disability, when the condition worsened and you just received evidence with a new MRI ? I hope this question is not to far off the subject you're discussing.
It’s exactly the subject. If a service-connected disability has worsened, especially if you have material evidence, that would be an increase. Hands down the easiest claim. - Clay
4:33 I started my intent to file for sleep apnea in November while I was awaiting service connection for sinusitis. I got service connected for sinusitis in the beginning of December. Once I got the service connection I went back in to complete my FDC but the drop down menu does not show my new service connected conditions. I called the VA and had them create a ticket in mid December and now it is late January and the issue is still not resolved. What are my options as I am running out of patience. Should I complete FDC as a primary BUT put in comments that the claim is actually a secondary to sinusitis?
There is almost 0 context to this for em to be able to give a recommendation. Let me know what the deal is and feel free to email me if you don’t want this on RUclips. thecivdiv@gmail.com - Clay
Have you known or seen anyone submitting a claim for Sleep Apnea secondary to PTSD using obesity (seems like PTSD caused binge eating) as an intermediate? I have the diagnosis and a cpap from a private sleep doctor. Thanks!
Absolutely and I helped a personal friend of mine file the exact claim. He had other correlating factors like breathing in heavy particulates and medication that leads to Sleep Apnea. They also used Dr. Sharma for the IMO. A 50% rating could definitely be worth it especially if that puts you over to the 100%. - Clay
Hey great video i have 8 conditions direct service connection do i put all in one claim or i have to do 4 and wait for the result and then go back with the other 4 conditions?
You’ll get different opinions on this but here is my take…if you have the evidence, submit everything now. You’ll be losing out on back-pay if you don’t. Side note, your claims will probably take a bit as the VA has to determine service-connection first prior to secondaries. - Clay
Help need! At 2:25, fist page Step 2 of 5 where to choose either or both new condition or increase check boxes, I’m not sure if I chose the wrong option previously on my intent to file, but the screen goes straight into as if I’m adding new conditions only and it doesn’t pull my current conditions. Even if I got back pages (back button), first page of Step 2 of 5 doesn’t give me the page to check “new conditions” or “conditions that have gotten worse”😢
Go through the process and towards the end it’ll give you a summary of EXACTLY what you’re claiming and if it’s wrong just take it off and do it again. - Clay
@@TheCivDiv Unfortunately, it it didn't work for me...I went through all the way to the last page (except submit) but the 21-526EZ online form wouldn't let me remove the one last condition. I scroll pages one at a time back and forth, but for some odd reason, it just would not pull my existing rated conditions (to do an increase or secondary off of). I called the VA (they gave me a number for VA tech support) and they submitted a ticket for me, which they said it could take up to 10 business days. I didn't want to delete my current open application and start-over since I submitted my intent to file before 8/14 PACT Act back-pay deadline. But hopefully VA tech support can fix whatever the system glitch I'm having. Fingers crossed 🙂
Please help I am a combat vet, I have filed my intent to file but have not submitted anything yet. Im confused as to what to claim for the first time. Do I list my laundry list of issues, or just one or two? Like ptsd, and depression?
@@TheCivDiv Thanks Clay. Cause I’m applying for TDIU and still submitting for increase and new condition that’s in my records that I missed to file. I hope I got you tube when I get out the service.
How long do appeals normally take for intent to file dates? I submitted an intent to file on Dec 9 2021 and didn’t submit all paperwork till Dec 8 2022. I’ve been on 2 months now for the appeal.
I made a video and my case was a bit different. This video explains how I claimed lumbar strain and it turned into Radiculopathy L/R. ruclips.net/video/Dq4m1tUegBI/видео.html - Clay
@@TheCivDiv so my thing is I’ve already gotten rated for lumbar .. they gave me 50%. NOW I want to file secondary after i hopefully get diagnosed with Radiculopathy
@@actionpackkooly4576 ah, if you’re already rated, just complain to your primary care about your symptoms. - legs go numb - experience pain in my legs - if I sit or stand too long my legs will fall asleep - I experience tingling feelings in my legs - Clay
Better have a ton of medical records ie military or VA i went for an increase on CFS 40% and in one C&P boom drop to 0% the only explanation givin was that the doctor could not diferentiate sympthoms of my 30% Fibromialgia so be extra carefull with does! Good luck
Lay-statements mean nothing and your private DBQ definitely holds weight. You’re still missing the IMO so yes, you will most likely be required go to a C&P Exam. Now I’m saying this without looking at your evidence… - Clay
![Chino Pacas - Modo Capone (with Drake & Fuerza Regida) [Video Oficial]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/zjv8TQ0gBkg/mqdefault.jpg)
1-stop-shop for VA Benefits: CivDivonline.com
- Clay
You are one of the best at helping your fellow veterans out with this difficult disability claims process and we really appreciate you taking the time away from your family to help educate us, thanks from the bottom of heart for all that you are doing. 😊
Thank you so much!!
- Clay
From all there is available on YT, CivDiv is the best in articulating what needs to be done.
Dude, thank you!! I really appreciate this. Knowing the information (which in fully believe some creators are bologna) and articulating the information are 2 different skill sets.
I’m actually an instructor in my real job and all I do all day is teach concepts to adults so this is natural.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv totally Agreed
Agree and without giving you anxiety.
Agree
This was exactly what i needed. The VSO and DAV were making this really complicated while being extremely rude. Man this is a life saver now i know how to do it. I have all my evidence!!! WoooHooo!
THANK YOU for what you do to help vets! I have learned so much from your videos!
Thank you! I know these ‘How To’ videos don’t do well but…when I meet with Veterans 1-on-1 I can now link these to show them step-by-step.
- Clay
I plan on filing for a secondary later this month and this vid is very informative. Thank you sir
Glad it helped!!
- Clay
Thanks for the tips. My VSO hasn't called back in 3 months and I'm just going to submit my secondary claims myself. Even my providers have suggested it.
You have the ability to submit your own claims and you can absolutely do this.
- Clay
Thnx for the video how-to, wished I could have found this when I had filed for my secondary. I goofed up on it so I got a letter coming back stating I needed to file on a "proper form".
Well, sometimes these can also be supplemental claims. I’m assuming that’s your case and you’re going to want to check this out. If not, disregard.
ruclips.net/video/S8qSol-zUuo/видео.html
- Clay
Just sent my claim bro… thanks again for your videos. Gods bless
Don’t forget the evidence side of the house and thank you very much!!
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv everything is in VA hospital idont go outside or private doctor
@@erwinsagun7643im the same
Good video bro very helpful 👍🏽
Your awesome dude 😎 so much appreciated 👍🙏
Hey thanks!
- Clay
Excellent information. Thanks
Thank you!! These videos aren’t fancy or garnish tons of views, but they are good references Veterans can use.
- Clay
This video wil help me file for secondary condition …. Thanks you sir
Thank you and I’m glad this helps!! Don’t forget to submit evidence-based claims.
- Clay
Thanks for all the info!
Thank YOU!
- Clay
Great content! Thank you.
Keith, as always…THANK YOU!
- Clay
Love you shows- Can you do a Video on the rapid ready for decision program with VA benefits. TIA
Basically submit a fully developed claim
- Clay
Awesome video Clay, thanks for what you do for the veteran community! Quick question, when submitting a fully developed claim, is it recommended to upload all the documentation while filing the claim or use quick submit after filing it? Also, is there a specific naming convention for the files we are uploading that we should follow? e.g. "Lay statement_Vet Name_last 4_claimed condition"
Thank you! For a FDC, assuming you’re doing your own claim and not using a VSO…I prefer using Quick Submit. So submit the claim, then use quick submit. As far as naming conventions, simple and basic.
Examples:
“PTSD lay-statement”
“PTSD DBQ”
“PTSD IMO”
“PTSD STR”
“PTSD VAMC”
“PTSD Private Healthcare”
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv thanks a lot! I'm filing it myself, my VSO is no good.
Great video. I just recieved my initial rating this week.
Im doing a supplemental claim for allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis both 0%
Im also filling a secondary claim overactive bladder due to lumbar sprain.
Can I submit them together or it has to be seperate claims
Supplemental different form and if you do it online those are different, too. Or, just use a VSO and they’ll handle it.
- Clay
When submitting increases does it put you at risk or getting reduced on other sc disabilities to where you have to be reexamined for everything?
I keep watching this video bro. My recent claim mess up bY VSO I’ll filed last may 9, then when I call VA they told me that nothing is filed, they want me to go back to VSO to check again. I just need to learn your video tutorial how to file claim I hope I can do right.Thanks again
If you have any questions, let me know. This is for increases and secondaries. In the playlist you’ll find initial claims, supplemental claims, and how to upload evidence.
- Clay
Been out for a couple month now. Don't really feel disabled but I do have ringing in my ears and sleeping issues. However I never went to medical for them. Only have knees and back issues on file. Friend told me to go and file a claim anyway. Should I go to a VSO or research more and do it on my own?
Both.
As of right now it sounds like your claims are:
Tinnitus
Back pain
Knee pain
For knees is it both? Right? Left?
You’re going to want to do some research at a minimum on those 3. I’d also recommend looking at your service and digging deep into any complaint you may have AND, that you’re able to get a current diagnosis for.
I’d also look at your deployments and years of service for presumptive conditions that you can get a current diagnosis for.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Thanks for the quick reply. I still have a statement from base police that said I fell asleep on the wheel and caused a crash. Will that help with proving I have insomnia while in along with getting a current diagnosis by a doctor?
@@suhbro5928 it won’t hurt.
- Clay
Great content, getting ready to do this myself. I just got done with my appointment with Dr. Sharma and he had provided a great IMO and DBQ in my opinion. I emailed a couple of questions about it, your thoughts on how i should proceed would be appreciated.
I will definitely check your email!! I’m currently on travel but give me tonight or tomorrow and I’ll get to it.
- Clay
@TheCivDiv good deal, I got the intent to file in so no real big rush
Your videos are great. What is the next step after submission? If you have seen the VA doc after your submission, is their a way to upload the additional documents
Next step after submitting a claim. Look up how the VA rates those conditions. Let me know here and I’ll see what I can do for you. Will your ‘new’ evidence be used in your VA Claim after you submit that claim? It depends on timeframe. When did you submit the claim and when did you get this ‘new’ evidence?
To be honest, regardless I would upload the new evidence using quick submit.
Here’s how to use quick submit:
ruclips.net/video/Rtfv6jPEdF4/видео.htmlsi=RZKPbuqAPswjKj4W
- Clay
Thank you for another great video. If I want to add obesity as an intermittent step, how do I do that when filing for a secondary claim?
Simply put obesity in the box to claim. Assuming your evidence is solid and the connection is there, of course. It’s just like every other claim minus the compensable piece.
- Clay
Can my previously denied service connected claim now be filed as a supplemental under a secondary claim to an approved service connected disability?
Exactly
- Clay
Hello. I received a 10% service connection rating for rhinitis (without polyps). I have until September to appeal for an increase. I made an appointment with my doctor for bad allergies. If my doctor give me a diagnosis of rhinitis with polyps, can I file a supplemental claim? Is this new findings/diagnosis relevant evidence for my rating increase? Will VA send me to another Compensation and Pension exam when I submit a supplemental claim with new and relevant evidence? Thank you.
So is it better to submit evidence via quick submit or directly on the va application as you’re filling it out?
Doesn’t matter. Whichever you prefer.
- Clay
Would you do video showing how to file for preservice aggravation
I will add this to my list!
- Clay
What is the criteria for filing on an already established service connected disability, when the condition worsened and you just received evidence with a new MRI ? I hope this question is not to far off the subject you're discussing.
It’s exactly the subject. If a service-connected disability has worsened, especially if you have material evidence, that would be an increase. Hands down the easiest claim.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Thank you , your information is always very helpful !
4:33 I started my intent to file for sleep apnea in November while I was awaiting service connection for sinusitis. I got service connected for sinusitis in the beginning of December. Once I got the service connection I went back in to complete my FDC but the drop down menu does not show my new service connected conditions. I called the VA and had them create a ticket in mid December and now it is late January and the issue is still not resolved. What are my options as I am running out of patience. Should I complete FDC as a primary BUT put in comments that the claim is actually a secondary to sinusitis?
Should I get another (new) Exam to show whats changed BEFORE I file a new claim? Thank you
There is almost 0 context to this for em to be able to give a recommendation. Let me know what the deal is and feel free to email me if you don’t want this on RUclips.
thecivdiv@gmail.com
- Clay
Have you known or seen anyone submitting a claim for Sleep Apnea secondary to PTSD using obesity (seems like PTSD caused binge eating) as an intermediate? I have the diagnosis and a cpap from a private sleep doctor. Thanks!
Absolutely and I helped a personal friend of mine file the exact claim. He had other correlating factors like breathing in heavy particulates and medication that leads to Sleep Apnea. They also used Dr. Sharma for the IMO. A 50% rating could definitely be worth it especially if that puts you over to the 100%.
- Clay
Hey great video i have 8 conditions direct service connection do i put all in one claim or i have to do 4 and wait for the result and then go back with the other 4 conditions?
You’ll get different opinions on this but here is my take…if you have the evidence, submit everything now. You’ll be losing out on back-pay if you don’t. Side note, your claims will probably take a bit as the VA has to determine service-connection first prior to secondaries.
- Clay
Thanks for answer me back, i do have all the evidence for all of them including deployment diagnosis and current treatment
@@afvet1946 send it!!!
- Clay
I`ve always used third party filing, so curious how do you submit your own va medical records. I have c file but big file. Does va do it for you.
What do you mean by 3rd party filing?
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv I use trajectory
@@richardhogeland8597 oof I’m sorry to hear
- Clay
Help need! At 2:25, fist page Step 2 of 5 where to choose either or both new condition or increase check boxes, I’m not sure if I chose the wrong option previously on my intent to file, but the screen goes straight into as if I’m adding new conditions only and it doesn’t pull my current conditions. Even if I got back pages (back button), first page of Step 2 of 5 doesn’t give me the page to check “new conditions” or “conditions that have gotten worse”😢
Go through the process and towards the end it’ll give you a summary of EXACTLY what you’re claiming and if it’s wrong just take it off and do it again.
- Clay
Thank you, I’m going to try that 🤞
@@TheCivDiv Unfortunately, it it didn't work for me...I went through all the way to the last page (except submit) but the 21-526EZ online form wouldn't let me remove the one last condition. I scroll pages one at a time back and forth, but for some odd reason, it just would not pull my existing rated conditions (to do an increase or secondary off of). I called the VA (they gave me a number for VA tech support) and they submitted a ticket for me, which they said it could take up to 10 business days. I didn't want to delete my current open application and start-over since I submitted my intent to file before 8/14 PACT Act back-pay deadline. But hopefully VA tech support can fix whatever the system glitch I'm having. Fingers crossed 🙂
So besides a nexus letter what all would i need to file a secondary claim ?
You don’t need a nexus letter.
- Clay
Please help
I am a combat vet, I have filed my intent to file but have not submitted anything yet. Im confused as to what to claim for the first time. Do I list my laundry list of issues, or just one or two? Like ptsd, and depression?
Send me an email with everything you’re service connected for and the %s, everything you’ve been denied, your years of service and deployments.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv email address?
@@TheCivDiv appreciate you
@@bdog7262 thecivdiv@gmail.com
Can you still file for increase in one of your disability if you are approved for tdiu but not 100 percent yet like 90 percent but tdiu?
Yes
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Thanks Clay. Cause I’m applying for TDIU and still submitting for increase and new condition that’s in my records that I missed to file. I hope I got you tube when I get out the service.
How long do appeals normally take for intent to file dates? I submitted an intent to file on Dec 9 2021 and didn’t submit all paperwork till Dec 8 2022. I’ve been on 2 months now for the appeal.
There is a large backlog of claims at the moment as reported by the VA Secretary. I wouldn’t sweat a 2month wait.
- Clay
Brother how’d you get diagnosed for radiculopathy???
I made a video and my case was a bit different. This video explains how I claimed lumbar strain and it turned into Radiculopathy L/R.
ruclips.net/video/Dq4m1tUegBI/видео.html
- Clay
I’m still within my 1 year presumption window .. so will I need a diagnosis for rad. If I didn’t claim it prior to separation?
@@actionpackkooly4576 that would help, but on the DBQ for lower back is Radiculopathy. Assuming your C&P Examiner is completing the DBQ.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv so my thing is I’ve already gotten rated for lumbar .. they gave me 50%. NOW I want to file secondary after i hopefully get diagnosed with Radiculopathy
@@actionpackkooly4576 ah, if you’re already rated, just complain to your primary care about your symptoms.
- legs go numb
- experience pain in my legs
- if I sit or stand too long my legs will fall asleep
- I experience tingling feelings in my legs
- Clay
Primary care physicians or Orthopedics Doctors never said that or agree with you that is secondary for your back.
How many intent to claim you can make?
1 ITF and you can rope whatever claims under that ITF.
- Clay
Better have a ton of medical records ie military or VA i went for an increase on CFS 40% and in one C&P boom drop to 0% the only explanation givin was that the doctor could not diferentiate sympthoms of my 30% Fibromialgia so be extra carefull with does! Good luck
Oof, yeah…medical evidence is KING! Also, a 40% CFS is a solid rating. Sorry this happened to you. Have you considered fighting this?
- Clay
If I submit a private dbq and lay statements will I need to go to another c and p?
Lay-statements mean nothing and your private DBQ definitely holds weight. You’re still missing the IMO so yes, you will most likely be required go to a C&P Exam. Now I’m saying this without looking at your evidence…
- Clay
It's already service connected and I'm going for increase
@@anthonyovitt6685 Eh, depends on a ton of factors and one of those is the VA scheduling the exam in the first place.
- Clay