Top 6 Mistakes When Filing for VA Disability Benefits
Ready to file your claim for VA disability benefits? First, check out the top 6 mistakes veterans can make when filing for VA disability. A VA disability lawyer can help you avoid mistakes that could compromise your well-deserved benefits. Continue reading to learn what NOT to do when filing VA claims.
1. Missed Deadlines
The VA won’t tolerate missed deadlines, no matter how deserving your claim. Fortunately, VA disability lawyers are well-aware of what deadlines apply to your case. That way, you’ll have a better chance of being accepted for VA disability benefits the first time around.
The VA makes several decisions affecting your claim. If necessary, you’ll be able to appeal these decisions by certain deadlines. For example, you have 12 months from the day of the rating decision to file an appeal. If you miss the deadline to appeal a decision made by the VA, you’ll only be able to reopen your claim with new and material evidence. Otherwise, the claim will remain denied.
Pay attention to any letters you receive from the VA asking for further information once you file your claim. If the VA doesn’t receive the information they requested in time, they may deny your disability claim.
2. Disability is Not Service-Related
If your disability is not related to your service, an attorney can help you determine whether you’re a candidate for Social Security disability (SSD). We understand the toll a disability can take on you and your loved ones, which is why we do everything in our power to help.
3. Missed C&P Exam
All veterans are required to undergo the Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exam, which evaluates the extent of your service connected disability. Without the C&P Exam, the VA may deny your claim for veterans disability compensation.
4. Weak Medical Evidence
It’s important that you have strong medical evidence to prove your service connected disability. For example, our VA disability attorney may recommend that you receive an independent medical examination. That way, you have medical documentation of your disability from a doctor independent of the VA. A VA disability lawyer can help you gather the medical evidence you need to prove your claim.
5. Incorrect Paperwork
There’s more to filing a claim than just checking a few boxes on a form. Filling out paperwork incorrectly can delay or damage your claim. Our attorneys are well-versed in the forms needed to maximize your benefits and we can help you navigate the process.
6. Not Hiring a VA Disability Attorney
Need legal help? VA disability lawyers have the education and experience to fight for your well-deserved benefits. We respect the commitment you made to our country, which is why we do everything in our power to guide you through the process of filing for VA disability benefits. Our VA lawyers want to make sure you get the compensation you deserve for service connected disability.
Unlike a generalist attorney or help center, a VA disability attorney keeps up on the latest changes in laws that affect your case. VA disability lawyers also have the unique experience of helping clients just like you get the VA disability compensation they deserve.
Need Help?
Our Kalamazoo VA disability lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve for service connected disability. To request a consultation with our VA disability lawyer, call the VA Disability Group at 1-844-VET-LAWS (838-5297).
[This blog post has been updated.]
