The process of filing a VA disability claim can be overwhelming for many veterans. This can lead to them unknowingly making mistakes that will ultimately lead to denial or delays.
However, despite undergoing various and careful deliberations VA disability claim mistakes can still occur; so it is best to avoid any controllable errors, especially during or when appeal a VA decision.
If you’re unsure how to proceed, seeking help with VA disability claims can make a significant difference. With proper educational and coaching guidance you can prevent potential errors and improve your chances of approval. So before you file a VA claim, here are some mistakes to avoid when filing a VA disability claim..
Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a VA Disability Claim
1) Not Providing Enough Medical Evidence
Failing to submit sufficient medical evidence is one of the most common VA claim mistakes. It is vital for the VA to acquire clear documentation that will detail and support your claim and highlights the severity of your injuries. This can include:
- Medical records from VA and private doctors
- Service treatment records
- Independent medical opinions (if applicable)
The lack of proper medical evidence can lead to a misunderstanding during your evaluation; hence, the VA may treat your condition as non-severe, or lacking a clear connection to your military service.
2) Failing to Establish a Service Connection
One of the primary information that you need to establish is how your injuries or disabilities are directly related to your military service. It is foundational in receiving your VA disability benefits, which are categorized into three ways:
- Direct service connection (injury or illness occurred during service)
- Secondary service connection (developed conditions that can be the result of another service-connected injury)
- Presumptive service connection (some veterans were stationed within areas that may have exposed them to hazardous, or harsh chemicals, such as Agent Orange or Gulf War Syndrome during their active service, which the VA presumed to be service-related)
If you don’t clearly establish one of these connections, your claim could be denied.
3) Missing VA Deadlines
Submitting forms, appeals and evidence are under strict deadlines, missing these can result in claim denials or postponement.
Key deadlines include:
- One year for VA claim appeal
- 90 days for submission of additional evidence for a Supplemental Claim
- 30 days to respond to a request for information
Keeping track of these deadlines can help you submit paperwork or documents on time, thus avoiding any unnecessary complications.
4) Paperwork Errors
Minor errors in paperwork can result in delays or denials. Common mistakes include:
- Providing incorrect personal information
- Failing to sign required documents
- Not listing all relevant disabilities
- Submitting outdated VA forms
Double-check all paperwork before submission to ensure accuracy.
5) Skipping the C&P Exam
Proper assessment of your disability is a requirement to completely understand your injuries and condition. Most VA disability claim denial reasons are when veterans make the mistake of assuming that their medical records are enough and skip the Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. Attending the C&P exam is crucial because:
- The VA uses the examiner’s findings to assess your condition
- Skipping may result in an automatic denial
- The examiner’s opinion carries significant weight in the decision process
Always attend your scheduled exam and provide detailed information about your symptoms and limitations.
6) Exaggerating or Understating Symptoms
Honesty and accuracy when it comes to describing the symptoms of your conditions is important. Delivering an exaggerated version of your symptoms can lead to the VA questioning your credibility, and may result in a lower disability rating. Provide the details by doing the following:
- Describe how the condition affects your daily life
- Mention any worsening symptoms
- Be consistent with your medical records
7) Relying Solely on VA Medical Evaluations
While VA doctors conduct exams, relying only on their evaluations can be a mistake. The VA’s medical opinions may not always be in your favor. Consider seeking:
- Independent medical evaluations
- Private physician opinions
- Additional supporting documentation
Having outside medical opinions can strengthen your case and provide an objective assessment of your disability.
8) Giving Up After Denial
It can be disheartening when your VA claim suddenly gets denied, which leads many veterans to give up. However, this is another critical error. You can appeal the VA’s decision and do the following:
- Filing a Supplemental Claim with new evidence
- Requesting a Higher-Level Review by a senior VA officer
- Appealing to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals
Persistence is key. Many claims are approved during the appeal process, especially when veterans submit new evidence or seek legal assistance.
Key Strategies for a Successful Claim
Avoiding these mistakes can help you attain proper VA rating, but being strategic will increase your chances of approval. Some effective strategies require seeking, and some of them require being honest and thorough.
Secure and Gather Comprehensive Medical Records
Gather your medical documents and records that clearly establishes the severity of your conditions and how it is connected to your military service.
Keep Your Documents Organized
Secure soft and hard copies of your documents. You can also keep track of your claim’s progress.
Be Honest and Thorough and Respond Promptly
Clearly explain your symptoms and how they affect your daily life, and if the VA requests additional information, provide it as soon as possible.
Seek Professional Assistance through Education and Coaching
Consider seeking the help of a VA coaching and educational assistance such as Just4Veterans for more detailed information on how you can navigate through the entire VA process.
Preventing Mistakes and Securing the Benefits You Deserve
Avoiding these common VA claim mistakes can significantly improve your chances of approval. Seeking educational and coaching assistance can be instrumental in helping you achieve the correct rating and avoid common errors and pitfalls.
Just4Veterans is a dedicated veteran coach who aims to provide education and coaching for every veteran. You may book a free strategy call to directly reach our veteran coaches. You may also visit our VA claims assistance page to learn more about us.