1-stop-shop for VA Benefits: CivDivonline.com Motion: law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/new-jersey/njdce/3:2023cv20660/533378/37/ New Jersey Law and Veterans Guardian email to Veteran: ruclips.net/video/cTTbfEZZdwk/видео.htmlsi=breyfI4sy-yjx3CX - Clay
I still dont understand what the problem is. I agreed to pay x amount for everything to be filed for me. i just review and hit send. I work full time and dont have tine to go through every line of law to see what i do and dont qualify for plus i like the habds off approach.
I been watching your videos the last few months,,, went from 40% to 90% yesterday. Thank youuuuuuu so much for all your knowledge before I went to my c&p exams 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾
Accredited Attorneys and Claims Agents when things get difficult - everyone discounts them for some reason. Filing an initial claim is the easiest thing in the world. - Clay
@@TheCivDivwhat is cost of attorney or agent vs these services like guardian/insider? My guess is 30% total so if you go 10-100% and they take 3 yrs of backpay this will be more costly to veterans?
Accredited attorneys usually take 33 1/3% of your initial Award pay. Looking on the bright side, if you go from 10% to 100% that’s a huge deal! You only pay the attorney when and if you win for that initial amount only. Your tax-free monthly award pay is for the life of the veteran.
@@xUSAFWolfman appeals only…most appeals aren’t going to the board so that 3 year window is wild. 33.3% is the max and most attorneys are around 20%. Exponentially cheaper than these companies. Not to mention, once again…appeals only. - Clay
Sounds good on the surface but whenever government shows up "to help" they make a big bureaucratic mess. My fear is that they are also trying to eliminate a huge source of knowledge from non-VA accredited entities. A ton of these companies and individuals that post awesome free material on RUclips to bring in clients will end up taking their videos down, cease to put out free stuff and the veteran will lose again.
This is it in my opinion. They're killing a business that is costing them money. They aren't mad at th 414m taken from vets from the presumptive claims.. they're mad at people filing claims with the language that the va can't ignore. They're mad at the billions they are having to pay in benefits that veterans bled for.
I am torn on this issue. Here is the reason why. Filing a VA claim for disability is a voluntary action. Unlike taxes, nobody requires a vet to file for disability or any other benefits. Vets should be encouraged to apply for the benefits they deserve, but at the end of the day, they can just opt to not file a claim. Filing taxes; however, is mandatory. The government requires you to do it. And you have the option of doing it yourself, buying software, downloading free software, hiring an accountant, having a friend help you out, or going to the tax prep place in your local strip mall. In some cases, there are legal and ethical restrictions related to how much you can be charged (whichever option you choose), but you have a choice in how you prepare your tax paperwork. You can take the free route, do it all yourself. You can pay $39 for software that guides you through the process. You can pay an accountant a lot of money to make sure your tax paperwork is top-notch. Or you can pay a small fee at the local strip mall and even get the option of getting an advance loan on your refund. Or you can buy your smart friend a case of beer and dinner to help you fill out your 1040. Filing a VA claim is completely voluntary. There is no legal requirement for any vet to file any disability claim. Do vets require special protections when opting to file a voluntary claim for benefits? Are we that incapable of choosing the way we want to do it when we decide to do it? I do agree that there should be some ethical, financial, and legal constraints on how these claims consultants operate. But at the end of the day, a vet chooses to file a claim and files the way they best see fit.
I don't understand why everyone wants to vilify these non-accredited VA entities. They are winning legitimate increases for vets that VSO's are not able or willing to put in the effort because they are overwhelmed. It's a needed resource, Vets just need to know what they are getting into. If you get an increase, you are going to pay. How's that different than paying a contractor to build a deck on your house? You got the deck you wanted, now pay the contractor. Same thing! If you don't want to pay or you feel the price is way too high, then stick with your free VSO's and quit your complaining. Can't have it both ways! Jeex-o-pete!
I agree, I too knew what it would cost me when I signed the agreement. They helped me get100% P&T. Now , I had been to various of VSOs with various organization with little to no help since 2011. So, while I am paying a generous amount, I lost much more wasting my time (12 years) with VSOs. There are just not enough truly knowledgeable ones.
@@latinogabe69 Preach. Helped get from 50 to 90 in four months. Submitted the fast claim first and getting ready to work other items separately since they take longer to process with more required appointments, etc. Never could have figured it out on my own.
Good overview - Robert Barnes style. He circles and highlights legal briefs like that too. BTW: New Jersey is a heavily taxed State. I remember reading years ago - in detail - how they've even managed to tax the rain.
VSOs and DAV (only took my money in dues) got me denied for 20+ years. They never mentioned the 38cfr. I only gained knowledge of such from the unaccredited information I found on line which is unacceptable!!!
If people are upset with the companies that actually help Vets like Vets Gaurdian. Then they should be equally upset with the outside civilian companies the VA has employed and trained to deny claims. Theres a reason people turn to these claim assistant companies, identify that problem and the claims companies wouldn't have a purpose.
People are upset with C&P exam companies and individual examiners. This video is about New Jersey passing a law that keeps predatory practices away for veteran in NJ. That law was challenged and embarrassingly the appeal was thrown out the window. Here’s a live discussion I have with a lawyer that worked for one of these companies and we talk professionally about the culture surrounding claims companies and the VA. Link: ruclips.net/user/live6OciiVaoBKg?si=1D6zQB7AYGoBxXWJ - Clay
@@TheCivDivwhat predatory practice? I had my issues with Vets guardian, but those issues had nothing to donwith their transparency. In fact, I knew what they charged before we even got past the initial disclosures.
I think these companies benefit 1.veterans who don’t have the time,energy or resources to file their own claims. 2. Veterans who want to expedite the process. On the contrary 1. Charging 5x for a presumptive condition should not be allowed. I think 1-2x is fair. 2. If no raise in compensation is achieved there should be MINIMAL charges not exceeding $250 paper pushing fee. So many of companies achieve no results and then charge all the doctor visits to the veteran and this is wrong. It took me 2 years of saying “I’ll do it tomorrow” before I finally hired a company and had my first c&p 3 months later. I’m glad I used a company because it got the ball rolling for me. I have 6 buddies that haven’t filed yet and I’ve been urging them to file for the same 2 years. They all are trying to use VSO or do it themselves and have gotten nowhere not even an intent to file. This is where I see value of a company. It’s the same reason you hire a car detailer to detail your car. Anybody can clean a car. Few know how to do it right and get proper results.
This is a huge loss for Veterans. Veterans should be free to contract with whoever they choose. A huge win for the VA to control access to information, resources and tactics to file a successful claim. These organizations only exist because the VA process is so convoluted that many vets can't navigate the process alone. Instead of making the process better, easier and more fair for the Vets, they are spending time and resources to put these organizations that help Vets successfully file claims out of business. The VAs true intent is exposed. Anyone that successfully helps Vets through the claims process must be vilified and squashed.
You have some solid arguments here but from the opposing isle…do we ignore companies taking benefits from presumptive conditions? Do we ignore the companies taking profits from Veterans who already had the evidence and just needed to file? I think there’s a difference in helping a Veteran submit an evidence-based claim and predatory practices. Then you have to consider attorneys and agents who can see ALL of your evidence and allow for quality help with a cap to back-pay on appeals. - Clay
All of the information these claim shark companies have come from the VA. It’s out of the code of federal regulations, the M-21 BVA decisions and policies from the VA. There is not one resource or piece of information that these claims sharks have that they did not get from the VA. You’re not losing any resources. This is great news for Veterans. It would be even better if there were criminal penalties applied, and these people went to jail for stealing from Veterans.
I don't disagree that some limitations/ rules need to be put in place. But the industry exists because the VA process is broken. To vilify those who have stepped in to help is counterproductive. Put some rules and limits in place. But to label these guys as "Sharks" is detrimental to vets. These guys genuinely help a lot of people. Vets lose and the VA / Federal govt win if this avenue of help is taken away. If I as a vet, choose to hire one of these companies, it is my right to do so. Just because I could have done it myself is irrelevant. I can paint my own car but I choose to pay a professional. It doesn't make the painter a crook because he charges me more than I would have paid for paint if I did it alone. It's a free market. Vets are not incompetent rubes that can't enter into contracts without big brother's oversight. If you don't like the terms, don't sign the agreement. It's dishonest to take and benefit from the service then refuse to pay after you have received what you wanted. You can't go to a restaurant, order, eat the entire meal, then refuse to pay. Now that the hunger is satisfied (or the vet was granted the disability that he sought) now he wants to not pay or renegotiate the terms. That's just dishonesty.
I dunno, this is kinda like saying the car dealerships off post are doing young privates a favor by giving them car loans they wouldn't be approved for elsewhere, so it's ok that they charge 24% APR Predatory is predatory
@@regulator18E I mean, most of those privates arent credit worthy and they both know it... They should. Also those types of dealerships exist everywhere not just out side of military instilations.
@@TheCivDiv the VA and Congress set the rules for VA disability claims. Federal law mandates you must be accredited to assist and charge a fee on initial claims charging a fee and not being accredited violates federal law that is clear and now a federal judge in New Jersey echoed what we already know. So how would this Veterans guardian be allowed to accept clients in other states they received a cease and desist letter from the VA and now they just lost a federal court case informing them that their practice is illegal. How would they not be charged criminally for violating the federal mandatefor charging fees on initial VA disability claims? They can’t deny they don’t know what the law says.
@Kenbot2 I think the key word in your statement is initial. They would just work the denial and increase angle🤷🏾. There will always be a work around. Those 2 supposed bills in congress still doesn't stop ACCREDITED attorneys from raking in 5 figure payments from veterans.
@@carlbeal3007 that would make sense if they stopped charging for the initial fee as that’s where the major violation of federal law is. You brought out a good point.
Since when did the VA become so concerned about the personal financial decisions a vet makes? States want to stop it because of the loss of property taxes and the college tuition.
I don't agree with companies charging veterans fees for submitting claims either. I signed on with Veterans Guardian in July, they have assisted with filing my claim, claim is still in the decision process. Have not been charged anything by them unless my compensation increases (90 to 100). Not defending them (Veterans Guardia), but veterans need to do their research on these companies first. Those charging for just submitting a claim are a no-go.
does Trajector Medical fall into this category? after submiting 2 rounds of claims myself and being "fairly" successful from them getting up to 80%, I figured i'd try trajector medical to really boost my chances of getting that last 20%... boy was I wrong.... they literally called me... asked me what issues I was concerned about... wrote up "personal statements" right there on the phone... submit the claims for me and "pretended to follow up and be concerned throughout the process" they did NOTHING else but submit the claims. NO medical opinions or assistance with nexus letters. NO medical evidence... they literally threw 10 NEW claims together and hoped something would stick. a month and a half later, I recieved ONE C&P exam for a secondary "Gimme" claim... the rest of the claims were denied instantly without exams for lack of evidence or support. Worst decision of my life.
@@raywinkle1024 sad.... I actually was prepared to support my claim myself with help from my local primary care provider. I thought Trajector "MEDICAL" would have a bit more support medically than I could have provided otherwise. I'm all for shutting these companies down now. I wasn't on board with it before and thought they might offer some useful services to veterans that needed help. They are , indeed, claim SHARKS
@@raywinkle1024Can confirm the new Trajector medical team SUCKS. I had many positive referrals from my dads buddies who filed many years ago with high praises. I’m filing with them personally and the communication is horrible. They make appointments with me for calls and then never call and then deny ever making an appointment. FYI if you reach out to customer service they will try to fix the non English speakers when they contact you. But when you contact them the call gets routed to anybody. They actually did submit a decent 59 page nexus letter and statements on my behalf. But the main point being their communication and organization aspect suck. Recently I’ve heard multiple good things about VA guardian and specifically REE medical for 70% and above claims.
I'm sleeping good too with the 80% vets guardian helped me get and I'm set next month to move it up to 100😂. Y'all such haters. Don't hate, congratulate. I haven't found a doctor here in military city USA to do a Nexus letter. What's the difference in paying an accredited law firm charging the same as vets guardian? There ain't none. Just cause something is policy or law doesn't mean it's right. Right? RIGHT😘
What’s with the kissy face? Anywho…none of this matters until legislation is passed…and in Nee Jersey, where legislation was passed, it matters for Veterans there. - Clay
I'm torn on this. I was at 50%, Vet Gaurdian help me get to 100% P&T. What they submitted on my behalf, I did not know existed. I would probably still be at 50%.
You mentioned Virginia too. Is that right? I signed on with VBG in August before I knew about all the claim sharks. My claims are in and if I don't have to pay since I live in Virginia, I might do that. BTW - I was recommended to them by another vet.
You need to watch this and stay on top I’m of it but it’s very likely you won’t have to pay. Prolong prolong prolong. VA HB736: ruclips.net/video/-Xs6xj4Vt90/видео.htmlsi=yrcRAHWiic8gKqWD - Clay
You are the crook if you contracted with them, they fulfilled their obligations, you received the benefit of the work they performed on your behalf, now you don't want to pay. You are the thief of their work product. Shame on you and shame on all who advocate stealing another's work from them.
@@patrickkirby9265 oof, if state law says you don’t have to…then I guess you don’t have to. Who’s the crook? The company conducting an illegal practice with predatory tactics or the vulnerable Veteran? - Clay
@@patrickkirby9265 most people who post about these claim shark companies say they were giving little to no help whatsoever! So, who is actually the crook? Why would I pay for a service I never received?
Wow. I guess I can safely spend the fee Veterans Guardian charged me. They sent me an email telling me to hold onto it until they finish their court appeals. It’s been sitting in a high interest savings account waiting for the day. They ask me for it again. 16 grand.
Clay, Veterans Guardian almost got me for $12,000.00 if they would get me TDIU. I declined a got a VA accredited attorney and got me from 80% to SMC S in 8 months. Veterans Guardian would have never gotten me to that level of disability benefits. An VA accredited attorney works much better than these Non Accredited VA claims consultants.
their fee is illegal! Federal law mandates you must be accredited by the VA to charge a fee on an initial claim. Who cares if they signed a contract? They were never informed that these companies received a cease and desist letter from the VA informing them that their practices were illegal! Stop blaming the victim!
It’s not worth using the consulting companies unless they have their own specialists/Dr’s who will see you for a particular claim. Good luck finding an Ear Nose Throat Doc that will actually fill out your VA forms to state your OSA more likely than not occurred while in the service or aggravated by your time in the service.
They are not addressing predatory conduct correctly. This is akin to one private screwing up, so now all of Okinawa is on barracks restriction. Some of these companies do provide value at a reasonable cost. This is mostly a win for the VA, not the veteran. Yes, protect the veteran from predatory conduct, but don't do it by completely eliminating any outside resource that could be beneficial and fair.
Companies that take presumptive claim decisions and decisions where the Veteran would’ve won had they filed is pretty predatory to me. I’d make the argument that Attorney’s and Claims Agents need to be pushed more by the VA to combat these companies…along with legislation. - Clay
@@TheCivDiv Agree. But what if the veteran didn't even know they could file a presumptive claim? If these companies help guide a vet for a reasonable cost (and I do mean reasonable by being a couple hundred bucks) then I do see the value they can bring to the table. The guys that charge a percentage of the back pay or some other ridiculous amount do need a good kick in the nuts.
Vet’s “Guardian” is trash. They were a waste of my time and money. Go talk with your local VSO’s and old timers up at the legion. They will help you with your claim or find someone that can help you and you’ll save money in the long run.
Hey guys, hopefully someone here can help. I submitted a claim 1994, never received a denial letter until i filed my next claim in 2018. I just recieved a rating for the condition i claimed back in 1994. What are the next steps?
Hey devil dawg! Like what you do for veterans. I hear you getting educated, that's super! Please help us out and do an updated discussion on VR and E. I'm getting ready to retire from the rat race. I want to use these benefits and educate myself further. Hey why not? Learning is what makes life interesting and enjoyable. 😊
What are the prices from someone who actually did it? 5x the difference in the awarded change? So if I go from 10% to 100% with my claims I made right when I got out 3 years ago do they only charge 5x the monthly change, or if I get back pay do they take 5x the back pay? I just signed up for the free consultation and don’t want to get misled if the salesman tries to.
Yeah so from 10 to 100% without dependents you would owe $17,833.10 You take 100% which is 3737 subtract 10% which is 171 and multiply those by 5. I rounded but $17,833.10 is the actual increase without dependents. Dont pay. They don’t do anything that you can’t do in 30mins. - Clay
There is A REASON us Veta Hire companies to help US. I have tried to gp through Vso , vfw and dav they dont respond at all!! VA likes to play games. I have worked woth Trajector med and they helped me and now im with vet guardian. Unfortunately its the only option for alot of us.
Sounds good to me. Actually helping and being a predator are two different things. Helping a vet is fine but charging out the ying-yang for help is not right especially when the vet is doing almost 100% of the actual leg work.
WHAT EVERYONE FAILS TO SEE IS IT IS FREEDOM OF CHOICE ( THIS IS AMERICA OR SO I THOUGHT) THEY LITERALLY TELL YOU THE FEES UPFRONT BEFORE ANYTHING SO WHATS THE PROBLEM?
VA Claims Academy does the exact same thing. Pumping out videos weekly about how they're the best and you won't get what you need if you use someone thats VA accredited. You dont end up on the claims shark list unless you're doing something you shouldn't be doing. Im sure he's helped a ton of people, but its not for free, and those kind of people fear monger veterans into thinking they need to pay for boot camps. The benefit to using someone to assist you is that they have the expertise, and you do not. If you have a bunch of time on your hands then sure go learn about the claims process and figure it all out. With accredited personnel, you pay for them to do all the work and they get 20% of your back pay, rightfully so. My advice is to know what you're getting yourself into before you sign a contract. Know that no one can guarantee you a rating and the VA will deny your claim with no medical evidence regardless of who files it. I used a VSO my first time becauee i knew nothing coming off of active duty and he didnt care at all. I used an attorney for supplemental claims and got what I needed. Just be smart vets.
You said you used an attorney to help but I'm sure they charged you to help you with your case. How is that any different than using a company to help other vets with their claims? We live in s free country and vets should be able to use any source they feel will give them the best results, even if they choose to pay for it. We should have that right and the government should not be in a position to strip that away.
@charlesjoe4146 yes I stated they charged 20% of my backpack and that's it. Rightfully so because they did all the work. Nobody charged me for teaching me how to file a va claim. Nobody manufactured evidence for me. They just handled my Supplemental claims and appeals. No money out of my pocket. They made no promises to me they just said they would do everything they could. The predatory part is people saying they can guarantee you 100% rating or anything different than just submitting the evidence you already have and charging you for it. Or teaching you how to lie in your C&P exams.
They took a losing approach from the jump. They weren't winning a First Amendment claim in this matter. They ought to sue their attorneys for malpractice. Lol lol
People everywhere still have to pay with the exception of NJ and ME. Now whether or not you pay, that’s up to you. Explained here: ruclips.net/video/Mnti8eXQ5YU/видео.htmlsi=XsqXXgruQ1eZfUEq No updates to TX lawsuit or the Class Action - just waiting. - Clay
I don’t understand the question… Accredited Attorney’s charge in appeals and appeals only. They also have access to ALL of your records and can see the entire picture. They also operate legally under Federal law. What’s the comparison? - Clay
Not state legislation that I know of but…there’s a pretty big lawsuit against a MD-based claims consulting company. I cover that here and the prosecution is coming out of PelsLaw which I believe is in Baltimore. Check it: ruclips.net/video/dMRCJEfW3bo/видео.htmlsi=GxsEiDn1thFvicD6 - Clay
Trajector got me to 87% within 2 years. I cannot believe that they are on this list. If they get taken out, I’ll be pissed off. They have helped me a ton
So since I used VA claims Insider to help get me a higher rating which they did I still plan on paying them which is a ridiculous amount. I am just just wondering if they will be under the gun as well. I'm not going to lie with their help I got an extra $400 a month but I owe VA claim Insiders $3500 which I believe is outrageous. Just my opinion. And before I criticized yes I signed a contract and will stick to it but I did 95% of the leg work
VACI is company under the biggest gun and scrutiny out of all the others. I’ll link 2 videos. 1 is a Texas state lawsuit and the other is a Class Action lawsuit. 1: ruclips.net/video/BAxGGhymk18/видео.htmlsi=TAddAB39Zby0VQRa 2: ruclips.net/video/XNkTT3NPc1s/видео.htmlsi=D1q6ZOng6cVZ-4PU - Clay
you signed an illegal contract. VAClaims Insider received a cease and desist letter from the VA in April 2019 informing them their practice is illegal. Federal law mandates only an accredited agent can charge a fee for an initial claim. VAClaims Insider contract is based on fraud, and it violates federal law. I would not pay them a dime. Hopefully soon they are out of business anyways once they lose the lawsuit with the Texas, Attorney General.
Thank you for this! I'm an accredited agent and I just want to cry for the people who come to me after these companies take their money. It's such a crime.
This type of assistance is predatory, full stop. The truth is there are FREE sources of information, and if your claim is complicated, there are accredited attorneys that can help. I don’t understand how there are people that are defending the practices of these companies. They do NOTHING for you that deserves the amount of money they’re taking from disabled veterans.
I’m glad these companies are finally getting what they deserve. It’s amazing and sad, that many of there victims/fanboys are the first to jump to there defense
@TheCivDiv I'm retired Army. Quit hating. it doesn't look good. We are all Vets. Just because some don't do it your way doesn't mean it's wrong. I know guys who spent ten to fifteen years trying to get an increase, and on the first shot with one of these companies, they got what they deserve. The VA doesn't want people to use a third party because they don't want to pay out claims.
1-stop-shop for VA Benefits: CivDivonline.com
Motion: law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/new-jersey/njdce/3:2023cv20660/533378/37/
New Jersey Law and Veterans Guardian email to Veteran: ruclips.net/video/cTTbfEZZdwk/видео.htmlsi=breyfI4sy-yjx3CX
- Clay
Do you know the bill number for Virginia ?
I still dont understand what the problem is. I agreed to pay x amount for everything to be filed for me. i just review and hit send. I work full time and dont have tine to go through every line of law to see what i do and dont qualify for plus i like the habds off approach.
@@radfordsmith2773it's one thing to not make time for stuff others can do for us but make time for our appointments. Don't be silly
Same. I agreed, no surprises.
I been watching your videos the last few months,,, went from 40% to 90% yesterday. Thank youuuuuuu so much for all your knowledge before I went to my c&p exams 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾
Boom-shaka-laka! 💥
I’m glad I could be a part of that process with you.
- Clay
In the end we'll only be left with VSOs to assist vets, God help us
Accredited Attorneys and Claims Agents when things get difficult - everyone discounts them for some reason. Filing an initial claim is the easiest thing in the world.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv well my VSO was horrible and very over worked and accredited lawyers are not going to be free
@@TheCivDivwhat is cost of attorney or agent vs these services like guardian/insider? My guess is 30% total so if you go 10-100% and they take 3 yrs of backpay this will be more costly to veterans?
Accredited attorneys usually take 33 1/3% of your initial Award pay. Looking on the bright side, if you go from 10% to 100% that’s a huge deal! You only pay the attorney when and if you win for that initial amount only. Your tax-free monthly award pay is for the life of the veteran.
@@xUSAFWolfman appeals only…most appeals aren’t going to the board so that 3 year window is wild.
33.3% is the max and most attorneys are around 20%. Exponentially cheaper than these companies. Not to mention, once again…appeals only.
- Clay
Sounds good on the surface but whenever government shows up "to help" they make a big bureaucratic mess. My fear is that they are also trying to eliminate a huge source of knowledge from non-VA accredited entities. A ton of these companies and individuals that post awesome free material on RUclips to bring in clients will end up taking their videos down, cease to put out free stuff and the veteran will lose again.
This is it in my opinion. They're killing a business that is costing them money.
They aren't mad at th 414m taken from vets from the presumptive claims.. they're mad at people filing claims with the language that the va can't ignore. They're mad at the billions they are having to pay in benefits that veterans bled for.
Vet's losing is their ultimate goal
They’re still getting paid just not twice
I am torn on this issue. Here is the reason why. Filing a VA claim for disability is a voluntary action. Unlike taxes, nobody requires a vet to file for disability or any other benefits. Vets should be encouraged to apply for the benefits they deserve, but at the end of the day, they can just opt to not file a claim.
Filing taxes; however, is mandatory. The government requires you to do it. And you have the option of doing it yourself, buying software, downloading free software, hiring an accountant, having a friend help you out, or going to the tax prep place in your local strip mall. In some cases, there are legal and ethical restrictions related to how much you can be charged (whichever option you choose), but you have a choice in how you prepare your tax paperwork. You can take the free route, do it all yourself. You can pay $39 for software that guides you through the process. You can pay an accountant a lot of money to make sure your tax paperwork is top-notch. Or you can pay a small fee at the local strip mall and even get the option of getting an advance loan on your refund. Or you can buy your smart friend a case of beer and dinner to help you fill out your 1040.
Filing a VA claim is completely voluntary. There is no legal requirement for any vet to file any disability claim. Do vets require special protections when opting to file a voluntary claim for benefits? Are we that incapable of choosing the way we want to do it when we decide to do it?
I do agree that there should be some ethical, financial, and legal constraints on how these claims consultants operate. But at the end of the day, a vet chooses to file a claim and files the way they best see fit.
I don't understand why everyone wants to vilify these non-accredited VA entities. They are winning legitimate increases for vets that VSO's are not able or willing to put in the effort because they are overwhelmed. It's a needed resource, Vets just need to know what they are getting into. If you get an increase, you are going to pay. How's that different than paying a contractor to build a deck on your house? You got the deck you wanted, now pay the contractor. Same thing! If you don't want to pay or you feel the price is way too high, then stick with your free VSO's and quit your complaining. Can't have it both ways! Jeex-o-pete!
I agree, I too knew what it would cost me when I signed the agreement. They helped me get100% P&T. Now , I had been to various of VSOs with various organization with little to no help since 2011. So, while I am paying a generous amount, I lost much more wasting my time (12 years) with VSOs. There are just not enough truly knowledgeable ones.
I'm with you Gabe! I wasted 10+ years trying to get it done on the cheap.
@@latinogabe69 Preach. Helped get from 50 to 90 in four months. Submitted the fast claim first and getting ready to work other items separately since they take longer to process with more required appointments, etc. Never could have figured it out on my own.
Good overview - Robert Barnes style. He circles and highlights legal briefs like that too.
BTW: New Jersey is a heavily taxed State. I remember reading years ago - in detail - how they've even managed to tax the rain.
THANK YOU FOR BEING A MEMBER!!
Pretty wild because New Jersey isn’t known to do anything cool 😂
- Clay
VSOs and DAV (only took my money in dues) got me denied for 20+ years. They never mentioned the 38cfr. I only gained knowledge of such from the unaccredited information I found on line which is unacceptable!!!
I got screwed over by accredited VSOs for 12 years. I feel your pain.
If people are upset with the companies that actually help Vets like Vets Gaurdian. Then they should be equally upset with the outside civilian companies the VA has employed and trained to deny claims. Theres a reason people turn to these claim assistant companies, identify that problem and the claims companies wouldn't have a purpose.
People are upset with C&P exam companies and individual examiners. This video is about New Jersey passing a law that keeps predatory practices away for veteran in NJ. That law was challenged and embarrassingly the appeal was thrown out the window.
Here’s a live discussion I have with a lawyer that worked for one of these companies and we talk professionally about the culture surrounding claims companies and the VA.
Link: ruclips.net/user/live6OciiVaoBKg?si=1D6zQB7AYGoBxXWJ
- Clay
@@TheCivDivwhat predatory practice? I had my issues with Vets guardian, but those issues had nothing to donwith their transparency. In fact, I knew what they charged before we even got past the initial disclosures.
I think these companies benefit
1.veterans who don’t have the time,energy or resources to file their own claims.
2. Veterans who want to expedite the process.
On the contrary
1. Charging 5x for a presumptive condition should not be allowed. I think 1-2x is fair.
2. If no raise in compensation is achieved there should be MINIMAL charges not exceeding $250 paper pushing fee. So many of companies achieve no results and then charge all the doctor visits to the veteran and this is wrong.
It took me 2 years of saying “I’ll do it tomorrow” before I finally hired a company and had my first c&p 3 months later. I’m glad I used a company because it got the ball rolling for me. I have 6 buddies that haven’t filed yet and I’ve been urging them to file for the same 2 years. They all are trying to use VSO or do it themselves and have gotten nowhere not even an intent to file. This is where I see value of a company. It’s the same reason you hire a car detailer to detail your car. Anybody can clean a car. Few know how to do it right and get proper results.
The companies charge NOTHING if there is no increase - it's why they don't usually take cases they know they can't get an increase for the vet.
This is a huge loss for Veterans. Veterans should be free to contract with whoever they choose. A huge win for the VA to control access to information, resources and tactics to file a successful claim. These organizations only exist because the VA process is so convoluted that many vets can't navigate the process alone. Instead of making the process better, easier and more fair for the Vets, they are spending time and resources to put these organizations that help Vets successfully file claims out of business. The VAs true intent is exposed. Anyone that successfully helps Vets through the claims process must be vilified and squashed.
You have some solid arguments here but from the opposing isle…do we ignore companies taking benefits from presumptive conditions? Do we ignore the companies taking profits from Veterans who already had the evidence and just needed to file?
I think there’s a difference in helping a Veteran submit an evidence-based claim and predatory practices.
Then you have to consider attorneys and agents who can see ALL of your evidence and allow for quality help with a cap to back-pay on appeals.
- Clay
All of the information these claim shark companies have come from the VA. It’s out of the code of federal regulations, the M-21 BVA decisions and policies from the VA. There is not one resource or piece of information that these claims sharks have that they did not get from the VA. You’re not losing any resources. This is great news for Veterans. It would be even better if there were criminal penalties applied, and these people went to jail for stealing from Veterans.
I don't disagree that some limitations/ rules need to be put in place. But the industry exists because the VA process is broken. To vilify those who have stepped in to help is counterproductive. Put some rules and limits in place. But to label these guys as "Sharks" is detrimental to vets. These guys genuinely help a lot of people. Vets lose and the VA / Federal govt win if this avenue of help is taken away. If I as a vet, choose to hire one of these companies, it is my right to do so. Just because I could have done it myself is irrelevant. I can paint my own car but I choose to pay a professional. It doesn't make the painter a crook because he charges me more than I would have paid for paint if I did it alone. It's a free market. Vets are not incompetent rubes that can't enter into contracts without big brother's oversight. If you don't like the terms, don't sign the agreement. It's dishonest to take and benefit from the service then refuse to pay after you have received what you wanted. You can't go to a restaurant, order, eat the entire meal, then refuse to pay. Now that the hunger is satisfied (or the vet was granted the disability that he sought) now he wants to not pay or renegotiate the terms. That's just dishonesty.
I dunno, this is kinda like saying the car dealerships off post are doing young privates a favor by giving them car loans they wouldn't be approved for elsewhere, so it's ok that they charge 24% APR
Predatory is predatory
@@regulator18E I mean, most of those privates arent credit worthy and they both know it... They should. Also those types of dealerships exist everywhere not just out side of military instilations.
I imagine that VG will simply stop accepting clients from these states and continue their practice in all other state.
Exactly.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv the VA and Congress set the rules for VA disability claims. Federal law mandates you must be accredited to assist and charge a fee on initial claims charging a fee and not being accredited violates federal law that is clear and now a federal judge in New Jersey echoed what we already know. So how would this Veterans guardian be allowed to accept clients in other states they received a cease and desist letter from the VA and now they just lost a federal court case informing them that their practice is illegal. How would they not be charged criminally for violating the federal mandatefor charging fees on initial VA disability claims? They can’t deny they don’t know what the law says.
@Kenbot2 I think the key word in your statement is initial. They would just work the denial and increase angle🤷🏾. There will always be a work around. Those 2 supposed bills in congress still doesn't stop ACCREDITED attorneys from raking in 5 figure payments from veterans.
@@carlbeal3007 that would make sense if they stopped charging for the initial fee as that’s where the major violation of federal law is. You brought out a good point.
Since when did the VA become so concerned about the personal financial decisions a vet makes?
States want to stop it because of the loss of property taxes and the college tuition.
You sure it’s not predatory practices?
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv I SAS don't see the VA out there making sure the vet gets a good interest rate on loans.
@TheCivDiv I've seen you mention "predatory practices" in about a dozen comments, but no mention of what these predatory practices are.
I don't agree with companies charging veterans fees for submitting claims either. I signed on with Veterans Guardian in July, they have assisted with filing my claim, claim is still in the decision process. Have not been charged anything by them unless my compensation increases (90 to 100). Not defending them (Veterans Guardia), but veterans need to do their research on these companies first. Those charging for just submitting a claim are a no-go.
You're so right.
This is really sad. Of course they want to limit access to information on getting VA disability pay.
does Trajector Medical fall into this category? after submiting 2 rounds of claims myself and being "fairly" successful from them getting up to 80%, I figured i'd try trajector medical to really boost my chances of getting that last 20%... boy was I wrong.... they literally called me... asked me what issues I was concerned about... wrote up "personal statements" right there on the phone... submit the claims for me and "pretended to follow up and be concerned throughout the process" they did NOTHING else but submit the claims. NO medical opinions or assistance with nexus letters. NO medical evidence... they literally threw 10 NEW claims together and hoped something would stick. a month and a half later, I recieved ONE C&P exam for a secondary "Gimme" claim... the rest of the claims were denied instantly without exams for lack of evidence or support. Worst decision of my life.
I wish everyone would read this comment and yes, they are on the hook, too.
- Clay
I used them as well. they are a joke, everyone I talked too barely spoke English. they just throw claims and see which one sticks
@@raywinkle1024 sad.... I actually was prepared to support my claim myself with help from my local primary care provider. I thought Trajector "MEDICAL" would have a bit more support medically than I could have provided otherwise. I'm all for shutting these companies down now. I wasn't on board with it before and thought they might offer some useful services to veterans that needed help. They are , indeed, claim SHARKS
@@raywinkle1024Can confirm the new Trajector medical team SUCKS. I had many positive referrals from my dads buddies who filed many years ago with high praises. I’m filing with them personally and the communication is horrible. They make appointments with me for calls and then never call and then deny ever making an appointment. FYI if you reach out to customer service they will try to fix the non English speakers when they contact you. But when you contact them the call gets routed to anybody. They actually did submit a decent 59 page nexus letter and statements on my behalf. But the main point being their communication and organization aspect suck. Recently I’ve heard multiple good things about VA guardian and specifically REE medical for 70% and above claims.
Vets guardian wants 8k to file a claim. Send you to a mental health guy and ypu have to pay for that too. So what exactly are you paying for?
I'm sleeping good too with the 80% vets guardian helped me get and I'm set next month to move it up to 100😂. Y'all such haters. Don't hate, congratulate. I haven't found a doctor here in military city USA to do a Nexus letter. What's the difference in paying an accredited law firm charging the same as vets guardian? There ain't none. Just cause something is policy or law doesn't mean it's right. Right? RIGHT😘
What’s with the kissy face?
Anywho…none of this matters until legislation is passed…and in Nee Jersey, where legislation was passed, it matters for Veterans there.
- Clay
My Man enlightening veterans for FREE!!! I Love It!!! And I can see it!!!!
I'm torn on this. I was at 50%, Vet Gaurdian help me get to 100% P&T. What they submitted on my behalf, I did not know existed. I would probably still be at 50%.
You mentioned Virginia too. Is that right? I signed on with VBG in August before I knew about all the claim sharks. My claims are in and if I don't have to pay since I live in Virginia, I might do that. BTW - I was recommended to them by another vet.
You need to watch this and stay on top I’m of it but it’s very likely you won’t have to pay. Prolong prolong prolong. VA HB736: ruclips.net/video/-Xs6xj4Vt90/видео.htmlsi=yrcRAHWiic8gKqWD
- Clay
You are the crook if you contracted with them, they fulfilled their obligations, you received the benefit of the work they performed on your behalf, now you don't want to pay. You are the thief of their work product. Shame on you and shame on all who advocate stealing another's work from them.
@@patrickkirby9265 oof, if state law says you don’t have to…then I guess you don’t have to.
Who’s the crook? The company conducting an illegal practice with predatory tactics or the vulnerable Veteran?
- Clay
@@patrickkirby9265 most people who post about these claim shark companies say they were giving little to no help whatsoever! So, who is actually the crook? Why would I pay for a service I never received?
What about if someone signed and started paying the fee for a few months? And lives in WA state…
Wow. I guess I can safely spend the fee Veterans Guardian charged me. They sent me an email telling me to hold onto it until they finish their court appeals. It’s been sitting in a high interest savings account waiting for the day. They ask me for it again. 16 grand.
Are you in New Jersey? If so, that money is yours and congrats!
- Clay
You're a thief
@@NeoSoulCrew turns out a predatory illegal practice is…well illegal.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv I am!
@@NeoSoulCrew 🤣 so you’d like me to “break the law” and pay them?
Clay, Veterans Guardian almost got me for $12,000.00 if they would get me TDIU. I declined a got a VA accredited attorney and got me from 80% to SMC S in 8 months. Veterans Guardian would have never gotten me to that level of disability benefits. An VA accredited attorney works much better than these Non Accredited VA claims consultants.
I wish everyone would read this comment
- Clay
Where is the lawsuit for Virginia listed? I don’t see anything for Virginia.
Data is being collected and due November. Virginia Gov just signed the authorization a few days ago.
- Clay
No1, you sign a contract you know the price of the service provided. This is a way for them to cut down on veterans actually getting a rating.
their fee is illegal! Federal law mandates you must be accredited by the VA to charge a fee on an initial claim. Who cares if they signed a contract? They were never informed that these companies received a cease and desist letter from the VA informing them that their practices were illegal! Stop blaming the victim!
@@Kenbot2 It's a way for vets to stop putting in good claims. VSOs do a shit job, that's why they (VA) want us using them.
Great article, and good comments
It’s not worth using the consulting companies unless they have their own specialists/Dr’s who will see you for a particular claim. Good luck finding an Ear Nose Throat Doc that will actually fill out your VA forms to state your OSA more likely than not occurred while in the service or aggravated by your time in the service.
They are not addressing predatory conduct correctly. This is akin to one private screwing up, so now all of Okinawa is on barracks restriction. Some of these companies do provide value at a reasonable cost. This is mostly a win for the VA, not the veteran. Yes, protect the veteran from predatory conduct, but don't do it by completely eliminating any outside resource that could be beneficial and fair.
Companies that take presumptive claim decisions and decisions where the Veteran would’ve won had they filed is pretty predatory to me.
I’d make the argument that Attorney’s and Claims Agents need to be pushed more by the VA to combat these companies…along with legislation.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Agree. But what if the veteran didn't even know they could file a presumptive claim? If these companies help guide a vet for a reasonable cost (and I do mean reasonable by being a couple hundred bucks) then I do see the value they can bring to the table. The guys that charge a percentage of the back pay or some other ridiculous amount do need a good kick in the nuts.
Omg i have an apt. With Vet guard todayvl at 1130am i live in Virginia i dont know what to do!!!
They do a much better job than a VSO. Don't want to pay the fee, don't use them. I'll give you that presumptive condition charges are BS.
Vet’s “Guardian” is trash. They were a waste of my time and money. Go talk with your local VSO’s and old timers up at the legion. They will help you with your claim or find someone that can help you and you’ll save money in the long run.
Hey guys, hopefully someone here can help. I submitted a claim 1994, never received a denial letter until i filed my next claim in 2018. I just recieved a rating for the condition i claimed back in 1994. What are the next steps?
We’re going to need more than that. Feel free to join our Facebook group. Links in the pinned comment.
- Clay
Does this include Trajector Medical (formerly Vet Comp &Pen) ?
ANYONEA charging anything this includes for the state of New Jersey and soon VA.
- Clay
Hey devil dawg! Like what you do for veterans. I hear you getting educated, that's super!
Please help us out and do an updated discussion on VR and E. I'm getting ready to retire from the rat race. I want to use these benefits and educate myself further. Hey why not? Learning is what makes life interesting and enjoyable. 😊
Absolutely. Adding that to my list.
- Clay
What are the prices from someone who actually did it? 5x the difference in the awarded change? So if I go from 10% to 100% with my claims I made right when I got out 3 years ago do they only charge 5x the monthly change, or if I get back pay do they take 5x the back pay? I just signed up for the free consultation and don’t want to get misled if the salesman tries to.
Yeah so from 10 to 100% without dependents you would owe $17,833.10
You take 100% which is 3737 subtract 10% which is 171 and multiply those by 5. I rounded but $17,833.10 is the actual increase without dependents.
Dont pay. They don’t do anything that you can’t do in 30mins.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv that’s absolutely insane
you're bitching about going from 10% to 100%????? If they pull that off 17k is freaking nothing, you have issues dude
414 million bucks and no lawyers? Wut?
There is A REASON us Veta Hire companies to help US. I have tried to gp through Vso , vfw and dav they dont respond at all!! VA likes to play games. I have worked woth Trajector med and they helped me and now im with vet guardian. Unfortunately its the only option for alot of us.
I believe VA Insiders would fall into this regulation. They helped me raise my rating. How would this affect me?
Sounds good to me. Actually helping and being a predator are two different things. Helping a vet is fine but charging out the ying-yang for help is not right especially when the vet is doing almost 100% of the actual leg work.
Solid point and what’s more disturbing is companies taking profits for presumptive conditions. Blows my mind.
- Clay
Do these companies have to pay back the fees already collected from all the vets they've helped?
If the TX AG gets his way, VA Claims Insider will. I cover that here: ruclips.net/video/BAxGGhymk18/видео.htmlsi=6Uta-gH_iB_U1lF6
- Clay
WHAT EVERYONE FAILS TO SEE IS IT IS FREEDOM OF CHOICE ( THIS IS AMERICA OR SO I THOUGHT) THEY LITERALLY TELL YOU THE FEES UPFRONT BEFORE ANYTHING SO WHATS THE PROBLEM?
VA Claims Academy does the exact same thing. Pumping out videos weekly about how they're the best and you won't get what you need if you use someone thats VA accredited. You dont end up on the claims shark list unless you're doing something you shouldn't be doing. Im sure he's helped a ton of people, but its not for free, and those kind of people fear monger veterans into thinking they need to pay for boot camps.
The benefit to using someone to assist you is that they have the expertise, and you do not. If you have a bunch of time on your hands then sure go learn about the claims process and figure it all out. With accredited personnel, you pay for them to do all the work and they get 20% of your back pay, rightfully so. My advice is to know what you're getting yourself into before you sign a contract. Know that no one can guarantee you a rating and the VA will deny your claim with no medical evidence regardless of who files it. I used a VSO my first time becauee i knew nothing coming off of active duty and he didnt care at all. I used an attorney for supplemental claims and got what I needed. Just be smart vets.
Man, why can’t everyone read and understand this comment. Thank you for sharing!!
- Clay
You said you used an attorney to help but I'm sure they charged you to help you with your case. How is that any different than using a company to help other vets with their claims? We live in s free country and vets should be able to use any source they feel will give them the best results, even if they choose to pay for it. We should have that right and the government should not be in a position to strip that away.
@@charlesjoe3 attorneys charge on appeals. The predatory piece is Veterans evidence pushes an initial claim through, not a company.
- Clay
@charlesjoe4146 yes I stated they charged 20% of my backpack and that's it. Rightfully so because they did all the work. Nobody charged me for teaching me how to file a va claim. Nobody manufactured evidence for me. They just handled my Supplemental claims and appeals. No money out of my pocket. They made no promises to me they just said they would do everything they could. The predatory part is people saying they can guarantee you 100% rating or anything different than just submitting the evidence you already have and charging you for it. Or teaching you how to lie in your C&P exams.
414,000 million!!! Dammmmm it man
What about Texas?
They took a losing approach from the jump. They weren't winning a First Amendment claim in this matter. They ought to sue their attorneys for malpractice. Lol lol
😂 the other perspective is…that’s the best argument they had. Can’t argue for an illegal practice 🤷🏻♂️
- Clay
Any new info on TX suing VACI? Do people in TX have to pay?
People everywhere still have to pay with the exception of NJ and ME. Now whether or not you pay, that’s up to you. Explained here: ruclips.net/video/Mnti8eXQ5YU/видео.htmlsi=XsqXXgruQ1eZfUEq
No updates to TX lawsuit or the Class Action - just waiting.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Thanks bud!!
@@TheCivDiv New Jersey and Maine? Just to be sure..
@@dmfd123 Yupp
- Clay
How about when you use lawyers ?
I don’t understand the question…
Accredited Attorney’s charge in appeals and appeals only. They also have access to ALL of your records and can see the entire picture. They also operate legally under Federal law. What’s the comparison?
- Clay
What about Maryland??
Not state legislation that I know of but…there’s a pretty big lawsuit against a MD-based claims consulting company. I cover that here and the prosecution is coming out of PelsLaw which I believe is in Baltimore. Check it: ruclips.net/video/dMRCJEfW3bo/видео.htmlsi=GxsEiDn1thFvicD6
- Clay
Off the subject could you talk about CRDF and CRSC? TY
What does this mean though? For ppl who don't live in those states?
Trajector got me to 87% within 2 years. I cannot believe that they are on this list. If they get taken out, I’ll be pissed off. They have helped me a ton
Is this just New Jersey?
Yeah. Veterans Guardian lost the appeal against NJ AG.
- Clay
Its bs i sign for what i want done i know the fees and I'm fine with them.
So since I used VA claims Insider to help get me a higher rating which they did I still plan on paying them which is a ridiculous amount. I am just just wondering if they will be under the gun as well. I'm not going to lie with their help I got an extra $400 a month but I owe VA claim Insiders $3500 which I believe is outrageous. Just my opinion. And before I criticized yes I signed a contract and will stick to it but I did 95% of the leg work
VACI is company under the biggest gun and scrutiny out of all the others. I’ll link 2 videos. 1 is a Texas state lawsuit and the other is a Class Action lawsuit.
1: ruclips.net/video/BAxGGhymk18/видео.htmlsi=TAddAB39Zby0VQRa
2: ruclips.net/video/XNkTT3NPc1s/видео.htmlsi=D1q6ZOng6cVZ-4PU
- Clay
you signed an illegal contract. VAClaims Insider received a cease and desist letter from the VA in April 2019 informing them their practice is illegal. Federal law mandates only an accredited agent can charge a fee for an initial claim. VAClaims Insider contract is based on fraud, and it violates federal law. I would not pay them a dime. Hopefully soon they are out of business anyways once they lose the lawsuit with the Texas, Attorney General.
Hey not trying to cause a problem; But what is the difference between you and them?
I post RUclips videos, that’s about it.
- Clay
Ok, just asking because I got stuck with VA claims insider. Someone needs to stop them. We can talk sometime.
Veterans' info tap is why I started to watch you also.
No veteran should have to pay anyone to file a disability compensation claim.
Thank you for this! I'm an accredited agent and I just want to cry for the people who come to me after these companies take their money. It's such a crime.
This type of assistance is predatory, full stop. The truth is there are FREE sources of information, and if your claim is complicated, there are accredited attorneys that can help. I don’t understand how there are people that are defending the practices of these companies. They do NOTHING for you that deserves the amount of money they’re taking from disabled veterans.
The attorneys do the same shit. Only difference is they are "accredited."
If you don't like it, don't pay them
@@MechE11B the accredited attorneys have an important role in the claims process. Some people need attorneys. Nobody needs the claims consulting.
Free. Nothing free.
I’m glad these companies are finally getting what they deserve. It’s amazing and sad, that many of there victims/fanboys are the first to jump to there defense
😂 agreed
- Clay
Yeah, better to not be a fan boy and continue to get screwed over by VSOs and the VA for years. That's what real non-fanboys do gtfoh.
@@MechE11Bget smart and you won’t get screwed
@@frankgarza5193Get Smart? Wtf? Not every Veteran Has the Time or Comprehension to Learn the ends and outs.
Dude, you are such a hater. What youndo three years in the military??? Lol.
If you’re asking me, 10yrs Marine Corps. You can check the about me.
- Clay
@TheCivDiv I'm retired Army. Quit hating. it doesn't look good. We are all Vets. Just because some don't do it your way doesn't mean it's wrong. I know guys who spent ten to fifteen years trying to get an increase, and on the first shot with one of these companies, they got what they deserve. The VA doesn't want people to use a third party because they don't want to pay out claims.