Stating that filing a VA disability claim is challenging is an understatement. It can be an extremely complex process, which sometimes discourages most veterans from filing a claim and receiving their benefits.
But understanding the different types of disability claims and what is the best time to file them can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case and avoid common mistakes.
Having educational and coaching assistance is sometimes all you need for filing a VA claim, and the J4V DBES program provides the necessary coaching and education for veterans to obtain proper knowledge on how to file a VA claim and get the VA disability help.
Types of Disability Claims
The VA categorizes different types of disability claims, depending on the veteran’s circumstances and the evidence that is available.
Each type of VA claim warrants a specific process to enable a streamlined and systematic development of the entire VA claim and will help you understand when to file a VA disability claim.
Original Claims
The original claim is the first and initial process when a veteran files a claim with the VA. It establishes the initial service-connected disability and will serve as the baseline for any future claim. Filing an original claim as soon as possible after discharge or separation from service can guarantee a smooth and timely process.
When to file:
- You can file as soon as you’ve identified any injuries or disabilities that are service-connected.
- For a timely process, you can file one year of leaving military service to maximize potential back pay.
Increased Claims
Increased VA claims refer to when a veteran believes their service-connected disability was aggravated or worsened. This provides a likely chance of gaining a higher disability rating. And just like the other types of VA disability claims, veterans must secure proper medical evidence or documents that detail their condition and how it affects their health and daily life.
When to file:
- When you’ve obtained a medical diagnosis or record confirming a worsening condition
- The effect of your disability, or injury, on your daily life, both personal and career.
- After a periodic VA re-evaluation that resulted in an unfair rating.
Secondary Service-Connected Claims
A secondary claim is for conditions that develop as a result of a primary service-connected disability. For example, a veteran with a service-connected knee injury may develop arthritis, which can be filed as a secondary claim.
When to file:
- When a new condition arises due to an existing service-connected disability.
- When a doctor provides a Medical Nexus letter linking the secondary condition to the primary disability.
Supplemental Claims
Veterans can and should file a supplemental claim if they received new medical records, expert opinions, or service records after having their benefits denied.
When to file:
- After gathering new and relevant evidence that supports the claim,
- When a veteran believes their claim was denied due to lack of proper documentation.
Special Claims
Special claims cover unique circumstances such as temporary 100% disability ratings, housing adaptations, and special monthly compensation. These claims often require additional documentation and are applicable for veterans with severe disabilities or exceptional needs.
When to file:
- If the veteran requires special accommodations due to their disability.
- When the VA provides updates on benefits available for special circumstances.
When to File a VA Disability Claim
Timing is crucial when filing a VA disability claim. Filing too early without sufficient medical evidence can lead to a denial, while waiting too long could delay benefits. Here’s when veterans should consider filing:
Within One Year of Separation
Filing a VA claim during this period can expedite the process and give veterans the opportunity to receive back pay from their discharge date.
After Receiving Official Medical Diagnosis
If a condition is diagnosed post-service but is linked to military duty, filing immediately is recommended.
After Obtaining Sufficient Medical Evidence
Strong medical evidence, including doctor reports and service records, strengthens claims.
Upon Witnessing The Worsening of a Condition
If a service-connected disability worsens, filing an increased claim is necessary.
Emergence of New Evidence
This is ideal when filing a supplemental claim and when veterans receive a denial from their original claim.
Navigating the VA Claims Process Successfully
Navigating the VA claims process is challenging, but not entirely impossible. It is crucial to be aware of several steps that you have to follow to increase your chances of approval.
Gather Sufficient and Detailed Medical and Service Records
Having comprehensive, detailed, and sufficient medical and service records would help you strengthen your case. You can include medical reports, service treatment records, and buddy statements from fellow service members.
Choose the Right Type of Claim
Based on your situation, decide whether to file an original, increased, secondary, supplemental, or special claim.
Attend VA Examinations (C&P Exams)
The Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam helps evaluate the severity of your disability. Attending this can help the VA validate your claim faster.
Monitor Claim Status
Regularly check the status of your claim to address any requests for additional information promptly.
Seek Coaching and Education Assistance from J4V DBES
VA-accredited representatives or programs like J4V DBES can provide crucial guidance in navigating the claims process.
Your service to the country deserves every bit of recognition, so if you need further educational and coaching assistance for claiming your VA disability compensation, please email us at [email protected] or book a strategy call.