5 Ways to Lose Your VA Benefits | DON'T DO THIS!

[@tommarinevet]

No matter how long you been out of service...file your claim...remember your story and tell your story..you will win in the end....filing a claim is a process. If you get denied, appeal and then appeal again until you win.... Never Give up and Never Quit

[@manuelinciega2272]

I’ve been out 5 years now. Was always putting claiming aside. Finally started it this year and got 80% 3 months ago!

[@tommarinevet]

@@manuelinciega2272 keep going to 100%..don't forget secondaries upon secondaries to service connected disabilities

[@nicoleworkman3142]

They will ALMOST ALWAYS deny you the first time, it's part of how they test the seriousness of the issue. I've even had a Patient Quality Assurance Rep tell me, "you're absolutely right! It's all a game and you just have to learn how to play the game!" *dude thought he was helping something, ironically, by saying that.* 🙃

[@nicoleworkman3142]

80% first try: I remember the boot camp liason telling us, "doesn't matter what's wrong with you, don't be the one who's always at medical! Just claim it when you get out!" THAT DOES NOT EXIST! DISABILITY LAWYERS USE YOUR MEDICAL RECORD TO DETERMINE DISABILITY. *ALSO, MED TRAINING COMMANDS DO NOT GIVE A FUCK‼️ ABOUT PATIENT RECORDS, BECAUSE ITS NOT THEIR DESIGNATED MOS!* ALSO, MILITARY MEDICAL IS INCOMPETENT‼️ AS A MF. They will more than likely make your disabilities worse, especially if you need the 3 ortho surgeries in order to claim that joint. GET EVERY PIECE OF PAPERWORK INVOLVED IN THAT JOINT‼️‼️‼️‼️

[@tommarinevet]

@@nicoleworkman3142 never underestimate the veteran statement...it is very powerful at the BVA...but the more med records the better

[@ryanwilliams989]

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[@TheresaAnderson-kf5xw]

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[@maryHenokNft]

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[@maggysterling33254]

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[@maryHenokNft]

*Gertrude Margaret Quinto* is the licensed advisor I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment.

[@StellaMaris-lv2uq]

Thank you, I copied and pasted his name on web browser and sent a email waiting for reply.

[@RobertLaster-ke5qk]

I separated from Army in 2001 and filed for VA disability in Aug of 2023. I was awarded 100% Sept 2023. It’s never too late.

[@ShutterSpeedGaming]

Congratulations 🎉thank you for your service 😊you’re an American 🇺🇸 hero.

[@stephencastello6553]

Amen! I separated in August of 1991, filed in Spring 2020 and was awarded 100% T&P 11 months later.

[@KaliBahayKubo]

I seperated..11/11/84...and was found 100% 2/8/2016...😮.. Never to LATE..HAHAHA 😂

[@markwaters7802]

Was in Marines 75-9 & just filed couple years ago. Destroyed my back & pretty major ptsd, seeing things nobody should have to see. Go Trump!

[@ShutterSpeedGaming]

@@markwaters7802 Trump 2024 🇺🇸😊

[@howardmaxey1413]

ALL OF US 80's vets were NEVER told about it.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Spred the word!

[@bbq878]

Because yall were to tough

[@nunyah8705]

They don’t tell you, you just have to go apply lol it has taken me years to finally learn the system after multiple surgeries, and have even met an 84 year old who finally enrolled in VA health care

[@genroc2005]

Actually when I got out in 92' my neighbor worked out processing He took care of me

[@johnkowalski5756]

Is that not the truth. Tanker here from 1987-1989. Tinnitus, migraines, shoulders, knees, neck, back and PTSD from two in service incidents. Nobody told m anything about "VA benefits." There was no internet and no info given even when I ETS'd. I am 60 now. I filed and got 10% for tinnitus because I was told by a DAV rep that certain "noisy" MOS' are automatically given the 10%.

[@DJM.I.A.]

I am only 30 years old and I just got awarded 80% last month! I love you amazing people at the DAV and continuing to serve after service!

[@rblightchild]

dont stop pushing for 100%you deserve it

[@F15CEAGLE1]

DAV served me incredibly well in guiding my claims.😊 Life member now.

[@scottweeks5448]

I was out 29 years before I filed. All of my injuries were documented. As I aged the pain became unbearable. My cumulative rating turned out to be 180%. So I was 100% P&T. This man is on the money.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks so much. I hope you pain has eased somewhat

[@scottweeks5448]

I've got a pain management consult coming up

[@davidlawson3337]

This helps me... I was on title 10 deployment and destroyed my right arm, neck, back. The military did all the surgery’s and counseled me about filing on my de mobe.... Then took my over seas qualification away. I wouldn’t file but have had help from va through the years off and on. Was afraid it is too late to file now. I plan to file soon though and am doing some research on this stuff. Thanks again for the comment

[@rogerstephens8019]

I've been trying to get an x-ray of my right arm for 3 and a half weeks and the pain has been excruciating but I've got to wait till Friday 8.Why?I've watched our V.A.get slowly worse under this Biden administration!Now I'm hearing they are taking in illegal alien civilians from another country?Wtf! NO WONDER VETERANS ARE TAKING THEIR MILITARY KNOWLEDGE TO FOREIGN COUNTRIES HOSTILE TO THE U.S!THESE COUNTRIES WILL TRADE MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR INSIDE INFORMATION !WAKE UP AMERICA!

[@UnicornMeat512]

Lucky. I'm 150% and only 90 % by VA math. Until my claim finalizes anyway. Only took 12 years

[@nenejackson1091]

I am an Army Veteran 100p/t total disability and I did it all with the help of the Lord our God and him alone! It was all that I needed was to stay close to him. He walked with me through the whole thing and because of me leaning on him by faith and trusting in him that his will would bee done in all this. I was never denied the first time out. I prayed and thanked him for his mercies and then went on into the exam for compensation. He's a Good God and he wants to Bless us always in all things. Seek him and gives thanks to him and wait. Your blessing are on their way! HE PROMISES

[@jeffro582]

Amen, exactly right!!

[@HardBodyFitness902]

Amen!

[@chrislawson429]

Amen Sister Jackson i did the same process by myself 100% PT Gulf War VET USAF never had a denial it was Jesus and the Holy ghost the whole way!

[@billyj1892]

I love this ❤. Amen

[@raymondnieliwocki3473]

Amen and Amen. All praise goes the Lord Jesus Christ!!!!!!

[@sbolden123]

6 weeks ago I was raised up to 100% Permanent and total. ✊💯😊 and I have a VA disability lawyer but I did the work. They were awful. We had multiple hearings and exams Everything they put out was rejected denied discredited and or remanded. After 2 years of nonsense (I was already 60% when I hired them in 2020) I did my own research this year and I went from 60% to 100% in 6 months this year 2022......Hey veterans your lawyer is not going to do anymore than you can do yourself especially if/when you deal with the BVA and regional offices. Think about it!

[@acknights4951]

💯correct.....I went from 70 to 100 p&t last year. I did all the work myself. Believe me you can do it. Just look at all your illness and injury and document it.

[@sbolden123]

@@acknights4951 👍😊 yep. The lawyers were/are pretty useless.. I basically told them that either they have a problem or the VA...or both

[@stars_for_night_lights]

Any tips? I'm at 80% and have a current claim in for unemployability

[@sbolden123]

@@stars_for_night_lights research yourself any conditions and illnesses/injuries that you believe that can be service connected. For example, if you have flat feet and had them prior to and/or during/after service that's 50% rating right there.

[@74jdvickery]

We did my husband's VA disability claim ourselves with occasional input from our local VSO and got 100 percent. We used a lawyer to fight fo Social Security and got screwed. (Lawyer "won" the case with a partially favorable verdict. Amended start date that the lawyer insisted was "no big deal" actually meant my husband doesn't have enough work credits within the past ten years to qualify since he hasn't been able to work for the past seven years ...)

[@freddyhollingsworth5945]

I work for the V.A.... the guys that I see that do loose their VA compensation is that they simply don't come to their appointments and they are non-compliant with their care, like they are 50% SC due to having to use a CPAP due to pain meds from a 60% SC back injury and the won't wear the CPAP, they won't come to their appointments, and they won't do anything until the checks stop... Every Veteran should fight for their benefits and take this all very seriously and just be glad that they are alive, any Veteran could have easily been lost in war...it was just luck that the ones that made it back, did... Working on the inside, I can tell you the V.A. wants to compensate all Veterans that got hurt or have issues from their service.. Please fight for your compensation, it's the least the Country can do for the Veterans to be grateful that we even still have our Freedom, only because of the sacrifices of the Veterans.

[@igotvictory3591]

Let me tell you my CPAP save my life, I was issued it on active duty I kept waking up chocking and the last time it scared me and my Doctor said okay that’s it, let’s do a full exam EKG and all. It started when I was in Kuwait I couldn’t go to sleep every time I tried my body would jerk it was painful. When I got back from deployment was my first breathing attack, and i had several during my first redeployment physical I think at TMC they new something was wrong they kept running an EKG on me. Then final my Doctor who requested a full physical from EKG, Pulmonary exam to sleep study and woe doing my sleep study the people at sleep center woke me up because I stop breathing. I was given a CPAP in 2 days and I sleep like a baby with it for the last 8yrs and yes even when I take naps I sleep with it. I take my CPAP when I travel etc., not leaving home without it nor sleeping without it. I did not know the reason I was waking up was because I stop breathing and my heart was working over time trying to keep me alive. I Don’t play around with sleep apnea because it is a silent killer. Also when I need a new CPAP they check to see if it is being used and they are so surprise and they say you actually use it? Ugh yeah it saved my life.

[@freddyhollingsworth5945]

@@igotvictory3591 yes, they are a life saver... we can see your compliance as the newer CPAPs upload every 24 hours into the data base.. Yes, sleep apnea kills millions of people every year....wearing a CPAP will definitely save your heart.... Thank you for your Service by the way!!!

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks so much for your comments.

[@willeewilliams]

You get your va disability for sleep apnea based onnthe need of a cpap not the the compliance so no they wont take away or shouldn't take away your disability for not using your cpap

[@maryestheraustin2505]

CPAP machines are just one form of Sleep Apnea treatment. I stopped wearing the mask due to me being a side and stomach sleeper and getting an increase in lung infections following the recall of VA CPAP machines. The VA dentist offered me an alternative customed to me.

[@rickhall8119]

I wish I would have gone to sick call during my time in the Infantry. My body is hating me for sucking it up.

[@SpaceRanger187]

U still need to apply regardless

[@mybugguypestsolutionshoels2789]

I hear you. 11 bang bang here. It’s a process. I started off with the VA in Phoenix when it was bad, I just kept fighting for three years and finally started getting somewhere. Keep up the fight.

[@thunderjet4294]

There are ways battle if you have 1 service connected disability there are usually secondary ones that can be attached off the original

[@MamaRii73]

Still file for your disability benefits.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Apply now it is never too late

[@timcavanagh3622]

I was an Army medic. I treated guys in the field for injuries and there was no paperwork. Several of these guys have contacted me on social media for statements regarding their injuries. Most of the claims were approved because of these statements. I'm not gonna lie for anybody, but if it happened, it happened. Reach out to your chain of command or medical staff to get the proof you need. It works.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks for sharing and helping treat your fellow soldiers. Great advice.

[@airbrushken5339]

I stood in line the first time I applied for HELP at the US Consulate Office in Sydney Australia. 20 years ago they had a GS12 VA Rep there (she retired and Rep George never filled the slot). I had a Helicopter Captain tell me about his broken back after he crash landed his bird! The VA said it didn't happen! I was 11 B, and the team sniper. After I got stateside I had a few more operations and they sent me to a supply warehouse to work, and the civilian (retired AF) taught me supply and property books. A while later, I while later I took the test for 76 Y MOS (Supply) and passed. I knew how property was maintained, sales ...etc... I told the Capt to try to find someone from his team for reference... turns out his door gunner, took photos of every damn thing ... crashed bird (with numbers) and that Capt being on a MedEvac Litter from the EVAC bird. I told the capt to make copies and also check with US Army property disposal to see if it was sent state side and sold....it was. ... which was common. He got 100% for his spinal damage... as you get older, arthritis sets in making it worse. I know, the Australian VA fused my back at 50 years of age for free to help restrict my movement. Sadly ALL my Screaming Eagles friends have died ... being alone sucks.... and both the USA and Australian Governments KNEW the Dioxin levels were 3 times the safe amount 2 full years before they finally stopped spraying it ... I heard this in the Australian Royal Commission back in 1974!

[@stuckgrenadepin.225]

I was nearly paralyzed in a sling load accident at JRTC and instead of taking me to the hospital on post, they took me to the field hospital in the box where zero paperwork was done. Spinal compression usually ends with fractured vertebrae, mine didn’t so they wrote it off. Getting in touch with former unit members and witnesses is nearly impossible. Good on you for being willing to write those statements for the guys.

[@rogerringold616]

30yrs ago? People are dead. Witnesses scattered .....treated in army hosputal but no records of it upon end of tour...clearing post medical .....CROOKS CRIMINALS.

[@reggierendon2847]

True in the 60s and 70s, if you got injured nobody cared. You were sent to the rear. Just like in ww2 you got wounded . They patch you up, and back to the battle field

[@raymondnieliwocki3473]

The VA been good to me. The claim went through with no issues. Thank you VA.

[@MrJoe-qh2vb]

I put in a claim ,,, with-in 3 months it was granted !

[@jeffro582]

And thanks to God for all His mercies!

[@massahcollins5340]

Hopefully that’s not in NoCal, the VA here in the Bay is the worst department in the entire region 😢😢

[@joeygold8451]

The VA saves my life. I can't say 1 thing bad about the VA. Especially over the last 5 or so years. They have really revamed and improved across the board

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Congratulations

[@RichardsWorld]

After I was in for 18 years I started making several medical appointments for every issue to make sure they were in my medical record before retiring. That got me 90%. My step-father pushed me to appeal and I lost. A couple years later he pushed me to appeal again. I got 100%. Prepare for this before you get out. Even if you have a small injury or pain at least get your Advil from the doc and have it in your record.

[@evinchester7820]

You are exactly right. But, NO ONE EVER TOLD ME TOO. I didn't know I could go to the VA until the Affordable Healthcare Act was passed. But then, the way I look at it, the GOP decided to F vets by stalling the Pact Act. They even smiled, joked with each other, bumped fists, and so on. Then some of them left DC and went home for a few days. But hey...Think of all the money the GOP got to save.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

You are so very right and a smart man. Thanks for sharing

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Its not just the GOP but all politicians from both parties as well as Federal bureaucrats. I don't care for any of them

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Document, document and document, tehn copy, copy and make more copies. You are a smart man!

[@MartinD9999]

@@evinchester7820 I agree with you about the GOP screwing over Vets with the Pact Act. Intentional acts to continue care for those of us that lost our health and limb so they can brag about it while they take 4 month vacations throughout the year has really solidified who they care about. F'em.

[@roymoreno3000]

I filled 2 years after I got out . I kept putting it off because I didn’t think I earned it because I was only in 4 years but I did sustain a back injury while in service. I’m so lucky and blessed that even after 2 years being out I was able to receive 70% for my first time filing

[@boostmobile5326]

Great Story.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

You deserve this more than you know. Don't forget to file for SSDI also. Thanks Dale

[@CombatMonkey11B]

The title should have been “How to fail on claims.” “Lose your benefits” implies getting already received benefits taken away. All 5 reasons were more on getting a claim denied, or never receiving benefits.

[@sandrageorge4429]

I have never heard someone going out of there way , to correct some strangers comments , just over their wording , when everyone knows what he meant ! If you don’t win your benefits , then you also lost them ! Some people !

[@alishacee865]

@@sandrageorge4429 I actually thought he was going to cover ways to lose your VA disability after you have already received a rating... like not going to your VA appointments, not wanting to use the medical equipment or doing the surgeries prescribed by the VA, working/making too much if you're TDIU, etc. I have to agree with Games4fun on this one. It's kinda hard to lose something if you never had it in the first place, lol

[@sandrageorge4429]

@@alishacee865 Hey , it’s all good ! The guy does try to put info. out there for our benefit! So I do appreciate what he does , even if he’s not correct on his wording ! I already got my full benefits , but I have put people who don’t , on his website for info. to get theirs , and some got them due to paying attention to what advice he puts out there ! Granted , he may be a little abstract with his presentation , but his intentions are sincere ! Any way , have a blessed day !

[@alishacee865]

@@sandrageorge4429 Thanks! You too!

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Hey I am going to correct this video with another one.

[@rumpNrhino]

Got denied twice. appealed, then got evaluated and diagnosed afterwards. Keep your head up and fight for your benefits! One thing I'd highly recommend to anyone on active duty is if you get injured and put on a profile, KEEP all your profile sheets. Make copies of them asap and keep the copies tucked away, in case a higher-up decides to take it and rip it up. My foot would give out, sprain easily, and put me in excruciating pain. My captain ripped my profile up after accusing me of faking my injury. They made life miserable until I snapped, then discharged me for being mentally and physically unfit. I didn't get the much-needed surgery until years later, but it turns out I tore the anterior talofibular ligament in my left foot and there was scar tissue all up in my ankle. Nobody thought to inject my foot with contrast and do an x-ray (including the Army doctors, while I was Active) until I used the then Choice Program and get seen outside the VA. The validation this provided was nothing less than glorious and completely validated me.

[@manp1039]

thanks for sharing your story.. reminds me of my own experiences. Can you tell me about your experiences or what was the process of you getting evaluated and treated by a doctor outside of the VA using the choice program? Sadly, when i was in military I had very little experience seeing doctors for evaluations and treatment and had been bamboozaled into not seeking treatement and care by doctors.. and sometimes because i didn't have access to car. And early on when going to a VA they wouldn't even let me see and speak to a doctor. the VA tried to penny pinch and have a Nurse practitioner act as a doctor. In my case my major injury was while traveling home from a reserve drill and i was ridingmy motorcycle with a full seabag strapped to the back.. and a lady ran a red light as i was going into the intersection with a green light. being that i was far away from military facilities and ignorant about what happens to a reservist if they get inujured traveling home from reserve duty, far away from any military medical faciities.. and at the time, reservists didnt get medical care insurance coverage. I believe now, reservists are treated a lot better. at some point when i was able to eventually contact my commanding officer.. thankfully he vouched for me saying the police had deemed the accident as my fault in error due to i had head injury and could not speak for myself. He also say he authorised me to use the nearest naval hospital for care.. however that hospital was probably 50 miles or more away and i was unable to take care of how to access it or let alone how would i rransport there and back. I was so young and had no family to assist me in navigating this complicated situation with a head injury and memory impairment, auditory processing impairment and tinnitus etc. The military didn't provide any access to care close to where i lived or transportation assistance to get me there and home. And that was definitely what i needed and i needed communication accomdations to try and communicate with care providers with my autidory processing impairment. talking on the phone was ineffective for me.. and that was how they all handled people seeking out care. And that is not even addressing my underlying wanting to deny that i have any injuries at all or the fear that if i generate any medical records of having a disability of body or mind it will hamper/tarnish my employability for the rest of my life

[@davidsonlawoffices]

I keep saying this over and over again, document, document document, then copy, copy copy your documents. You will need all these copies one day.

[@manp1039]

I wonder if you can also send documents to the VA regional office.. don't they keep a copy of what ever is sent in to you name and social security number? then at later date you can request copies? Just in case you lose them or they get damaged.. you have another place where they are kept secure by the government?

[@rumpNrhino]

@@manp1039 Not sure, but the government didn't keep all my documents secure to begin with. I searched through all the paperwork the Army mailed to me and there was zero medical documents about my foot injury, eardrum puncture, or stress fracture in my wrist. If I didn't make and hide copies, I would've been screwed. I will never fully trust the government or VA, so I have numerous ways I have them backed-up on my own.

[@manp1039]

@@rumpNrhino can you share the ways you found to back up your documents that you found most effective? I would like to know. In regards to the medical records being in your army file.. I would think that those files would be kept by the clinic or hospital you were treated at, as opposed to being sent to the army (I am thinking how civilian hospitals and clinics work..they keep their own files.. and generally they don't like or make copies and send them anywhere else?) I was treated at an army hospital, but non of those records were in my military file. I particularly was searching for this because i needed the need of a prescription i was given. So i could share thta with current doctors. interestly or sadly that army hospital no longer exists. it was the army hospital near golden gat bridge in San Francisco.

[@sandrageorge4429]

Got out of the marines in the seventies with PTSD ! Became homeless due to struggling with inner issues ! 37 homeless years later dying from liver failure, finally got help and off the streets , thanks to the volunteers of America who put me in a shelter ! They also got me in the VA system and on benefits ! Was informed I was eligible since the 70s , but never knew it. It’s a crying damm shame , what the Government doesn’t do for our veterans, unless we fight tooth and nail to get it ! Would you believe I had tent in my bedroom for eight months , just to sleep ? That’s how bad it was being on the streets that long ! Hell I used to get so so……. Oh never mind , It don’t mater any way ! Fuck it !

[@flutoporter9131]

Are u service connected....u could get back pay from 70s...i did..need to here yr story to decide...i was like u

[@plasmacutter4515]

But you do brother you matter don't give up please don't give up for god sake please don't give up

[@sandrageorge4429]

@@plasmacutter4515 bro sorry about that ! My phone is small and I meant “it” don’t matter ! I forgot the T in that word ! Small screen , not a small self esteem ! I’m all good ! I meant Remising about that past , don’t matter , if you only get bummed out !

[@flutoporter9131]

@@sandrageorge4429 i was homeless when i got out...tell that to a bva judge who can order back pay from service...thats how i did it

[@boostmobile5326]

I Greatly appreciate your heart warming situation. Thank You for sharing this.

[@WCTarheel]

I'm a Navy veteran having served in-country in Vietnam during 70-71. 41 years later I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. At the recommendation of my VA doctor, I filed an Agent Orange claim along with tons of documents that proved I was there and when I was there. It took a year, but I was approved with a 100% rating, with back pay to the date I filed the claim. I had had issues during the prior 41 years, but didn't know of the Agent Orange connection. It only counts from the date you file the claim.

[@feartheancient]

How much was the back pay for 42 years😂

[@WCTarheel]

@@feartheancient Back pay only went to the date the claim was filed, 12 months.

[@jeffro582]

@@feartheancient so for 12 months a little over 40k

[@davidsonlawoffices]

When was your claim “effective.” There are two dates that must be compared to each other under the general rule on effective dates, the date your entitlement “arose,” is the initial date on which it appears you satisfied all the substantive criteria for entitlement to the benefit, as determined from a review of all the evidence included in the record when the VA granted the claim. In other words, the date your entitlement “arose” focuses upon (1) the date your cancer first manifested and (2) the date entitlement to benefits was authorized by law and regulation. It does not matter when you submitted any evidence. It only matters what all the evidence shows. In other words, if you submit evidence that proves entitlement to benefits two years after the VA received your claim, this does not mean that the date entitlement arose is two years after the VA received your claim. It can be earlier. Sometimes the date entitlement arose for DIC is the date the veteran was discharged from military service, regardless of the date on which the VA received the claim. For example, for a claim for disability compensation for a back condition that is granted because medical evidence shows that the veteran sustained a back injury in service, the veteran currently has a back injury, and the current back injury is the same as the one incurred in service, the date entitlement first “arose” is the date of discharge from military service. On the other hand, the date that entitlement to compensation first arose is usually many years after discharge in both claims involving latent diseases (that is, diseases that take time to develop after the initiating event takes place) and claims involving secondary injuries or diseases (that is, injuries or diseases that are service-connected because they develop as a result of a primary injury or disease that is already service-connected). In your case your diagnosis of prostate cancer occurred many years after discharge so the date your entitlement arose is the date the evidence in the record shows that you suffer from prostate cancer. Often this is the date of the first medical diagnosis of prostate cancer.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

In this case this Vet's diagnosis of prostate cancer occurred many years after discharge so the date his entitlement arose is the date the evidence in the record shows that he suffers from prostate cancer. Often this is the date of the first medical diagnosis of prostate cancer. Probably didn't get 42-years back pay. Thanks for your comment

[@karlnordinger5968]

Very very good all "round "advice esp for those on active duty today - when something happens go to sick bay get it on the record. When I served many yrs ago seeing a doc was frowned upon and was considered a sign of weakness.

[@bosco_jryder]

Yep they tried to make me feel weak but it made me mad so I filed while in service peer pressure is an issue

[@YoutubeAdsSuck]

Still is

[@stephanieharries7746]

Same when I was on active duty- although I kind of got chastised for a black/blue sprained ankle at boot camp from medical for not coming in when it first occurred.

[@FreeThaSpeech]

They make u sit in the waiting room for three hours so u can guarantee missing breakfast. And there were no smart phones back in the day so u just watch CNN reruns.

[@YoutubeAdsSuck]

@@stephanieharries7746 I ripped my bicep in the desert and doc said to massage and stretch it. Still fucked to this day.

[@Echo5BravoUSMC]

I am 61. USMC vet, served 1981 - 1993. Field for the first time this year and got 70% combined rating. IBS, PTSD, GERD, Tinnitus and Headaches.

[@westtnskirmishlog6820]

Appreciate your work sir. I tried to tough it out, and just go home and start working in the mill enjoying my hometown veteran status and being buddies with the cool Vietnam and Persian gulf vets. They found out I had put off claiming so long they ganged up on me like intervention. They told me they loved me but, " you got post war brother, PTSD, along with holes shot in you and it's pretty noticable, fix it now." Stay on it folks, file, file, file. Like the man said, get it on paper. Be honest, be what you took an oath to be about it.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Blessings to you and your family. Thanks for sharing

[@lalaiana2179]

Thanks for making this video. I prioritized my health and ended up getting outcasted after I found out that I had a heavy problem that took almost 2 years to bring me to a moderate level. I was in the clinics and at appointments more than I was at work especially at the last year and a half of my service. I don't regret it because I'm feeling and doing better, but it did teach me that once you're no longer useful you'll end up by yourself. I hope to let others know that, at the end of the day, the people who prioritize making sure you go to the field over the recovery of your injury isn't going to be there for any step of your health journey in or outside the military. Please don't be so prideful and think that brushing off major or minor injuries in the military will get anyone anywhere or get anyone any benefits from the VA.

[@lorenzomaximo1818]

I am Navy Vietnam Veteran during 1971 to 74 .In 2016 I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s from exposure to agent orange. It took all those years for it to manifest. I got denied first then I was classified as presumptive and finally won my case. After hiring a lawyer in 2018 I’m now at 100% disabled and I’m 72.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thank you for your service and our prayers for you and your family

[@lorenzomaximo1818]

@@davidsonlawoffices thank you for your support.

[@mrd.808]

I got fired from my Federal job GS06 for being too aggressive according to their termination letter. Was able to use this information and linked it to my medical issues that occurred during my time in the military. Unfortunately, a lot difficult with social security disability(totally different animal from VA disability). You think VA disability is bad trying to get benefits, Social Security disability is the worst!!!!! Thank you, Counselor Davidson. It's an awesome channel!

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thank you Mr. D. Bless you and your family

[@bigboycombo6342]

SSDI is the worst and should be automatic if you are 100% or 100% IU.

[@jgkitarel]

The biggest bit of advice you gave, and several times at that, of making sure you get documentation on it and can prove it is all service connected, is very on the spot. One thing my last unit had, and the transition people as well, advised, was to use your last year to get everything seen by one of the docs, no matter how minor. I went one up and started physical therapy, something I should have done years prior, so the issues are not only documented, but the fact that I looked for treatment options for them, on top of my end of service physicals, is how I GOT my disability rating. If there are any active service members watching this, or recently separated ones who are still in contact with their battle buddies who are (or will be) looking to ETS, tell them to start seeing the docs for everything to get it documented ahead of time. If it's in the medical records before you ETS, that makes a stronger case. If the issues are ones you've sought treatment or management advice for, even better. 90% of getting it all set up is on the person being proactive when it comes to obtaining benefits. A lot of it may not do anything on their individual own levels, but together, they tend to build a case to receive benefits. A number of things I receive benefits for is basically lumped together from a bunch of smaller things that on their own would not warrant benefits, aside from having access to VA Medical, which the only requirement is being a Veteran.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks so much for your comments. Document, document and document. Then make copies lots of copies of whatever you submit. If you don't have access for VA Quicksubmit then send everything via registered or certified mail.

[@caribcarib4337]

they have now a "presumption " clause - where you do not have prove anything- if you were in a certain war they presume you got a disability from there

[@micclay]

I hurt my knee getting down from an f18 in 97. I was 19, tough and walked it off. No records of it. It was the 1st time I hurt it and it got to the point I needed an ACL rebuild. Service members need to know how important it is to the get injuries on record. They think they're invincible at young age. I did.

[@tonepoet]

My dad was in for 4 years during the Korean War, I first filed his claim in 2015. I'm a veteran, I know about all of this. He was denied twice, was awarded 80% the third time (he didn't get anything retroactively, unfortunately). That's the magic number, three times. Never too late to file claims!!!

[@alphabravo8703]

yup

[@boostmobile5326]

Absolutely Correct. As soon as time permits start seeing VA doctors for any and all service related injuries.

[@gerryllamado4960]

I am Gerardo Mario A Llamado son of Pablo Hernandez Llamado a recognized guerilla in world war two I would like to claim benefits for my deceased father could you tell me the address and the person whom I should talked at US veterans affairs thanks and GOD bless

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Don't stop fighting until the fight is done. Thanks for your comment

[@davidpate328]

​@@gerryllamado4960+

[@justasimpleengineer96]

1st one is me. Hurt my back multiple times working in weird positions and carrying heavy items all the time as an airframes mech. Was told to just suck it up and i did like an idiot. Here I am 20 years later with chronic pain and I’m fighting the Va to get connected.

[@pilotgal6191]

I just filed after 35 years. I was injured three times involving my leg, head, ears, and knee. I had to have my hip replaced, am getting evaluated for the other hip, have constant knee pain, have suffered from migraines, night sweats and sleep issues, and have terrible tinnitus. Thanks for this video!

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks for your comments, I hope you are at 100%. Bless you

[@SirBelvedere333]

You sound exactly like me. I’m at 80% but I have filed for ptsd, migraine, back injury. Don’t wait folks.

[@richardbartley5906]

Every one who served should qualify for service related hearing loss. NAVY 1964 - 1968

[@pilotgal6191]

​@@davidsonlawofficesGot my rating at 40% for TBI and facial scars. Migraines are deferred and still being evaluated. I got denied for tinnitus, sleep disturbances, knee and leg injuries even though all are documented in my service record and I have private medical history for treatment. I'm filing a supplemental claim and including a personal statement, which I didn't realize I could include.

[@provost5752]

I hurt my back in 89 lifting a towed howitzer off a 5 ton. I went to the hospital on post. I had ice treatments for weeks, It slowly got better over time. As years went by it started bothering me more and more. In 2018 I filed and and I'm at 100% now thanks to me seeking medical treatment when it happened. The VA looks at it as if its not documented it didn't happen.

[@bluray4687]

I hurt mine in 97 in the Navy. When i got out in 01 and filed, the VA said it wasn't service connected, although it's in my medical record. I recently got a lawyer to help me out.

[@citylimitpowersportsllc5872]

What exactly did you do because they are fighting me on my IVDS, DDD ect I obtained in a Military vehicle accident in 2001. Got an LOD and got a 90% claim for all my injuries but now trying to say my DDD is getting better. DDD doesn't get better it gets worse and has gotten worse. I think it was a joke C&P examiner.

[@provost5752]

​@@citylimitpowersportsllc5872 Well I had been going to a chiropractor for about 3 years prior to when I filed. He diagnosed and sent the VA my records. The VA low balled me. I filed for an increase and had my VA primary physician send me for MRI's. Once they saw the MRIs they gave me 40 for my back, 20 for sciatica and 70 for anxiety related to my back pain. I already had 20 for a dislocated shoulder and 10 for tinnitus. This put me at 90 and I filed for TDIU and got it.

[@provost5752]

@@citylimitpowersportsllc5872 Also keep seeking treatment

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Document, document and document. It is difficult to do by necessary

[@fangdanian]

Once you have received your rating, be happy with it because if you appeal or try to have your rating increased, your original rating will then become "at risk" of reevaluation with the existing rating either lowered or totally lost. I'm a wounded, Vietnam veteran with a rating of 90%. About 10 years ago, I started having serious problems with my eyes; which were part of my original wounds. I talked to an administrator with the St.Louis V.A. to see if I could have my rating increased to 100% because I was starting to have problems seeing at work. She told me that it would be a bad idea because of the above mentioned reason. The message that I came away with was that the V.A. is not your friend and will do anything to keep from paying you what you deserve. Keep in mind that this is the same V.A. that would schedule me 2 - 3 times per week to evaluate the "progress" of my healing. I would sit in the waiting room until quitting time; never see a doctor and (quite magically) someone would write in my records for the day "all wounds resolving". Additionally. had I missed even one of these multiple appointments, I would have to refile my claims all over again.

[@mrchisolm]

In the late eighties and early nineties the Squad leader and platoon Sgt would openly discourage you to go the sick call.

[@michaelyucon588]

Was listed as the sick, lame and lazy called out and sent to fat boy PT even after returning from deployment where was wounded

[@out-standing4320]

Oh its still the same Lol

[@Death_Metal_Head]

That's how it was in the mid 2000s, too.

[@chrish3359]

True!!! Whenever you do go, they only give you a Motrin and tell you that you need to hydrate (drink water). Supposedly the military "cure-all"!!!

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Sounds about right.

[@derangedmetalworks9489]

I've been fighting with the VA since 2005 over my back injury that happened in Army Basic in 2001. I was medically discharged in 05, and have been getting treatment for it from the VA since then. Yet they still deny my claim for it. Thank God for the Pact Act because I am a K2 veteran and haven't been previously allowed to be part of the toxic exposure stuff until then.

[@noyb12345]

God is good bro 💯

[@MrJoe-qh2vb]

Seriously friend the Pact ACT had little to do with yr claim , did you receive an Honor Discharge ? Sounds like you need a VFW or AMVETS Rep ( power of attorney ) to stand up for you , me they did great !

[@derangedmetalworks9489]

@@MrJoe-qh2vb seriously. K2 veteran's were excluded from being part of the burn pit/ toxic exposure registry until the pact act got passed. Also I never said anything about it helping with my claim. Attention to details tends to help before making a reply comment.

[@alantaylor9593]

I was the K2 Base Engineer from 2005 to early 2006... I was literally the last one there in its final days.

[@derangedmetalworks9489]

@@alantaylor9593 I was there in 02-03 with my engineer unit. Are you part of the Stronghold Freedom foundation?

[@davidrosenlund7533]

Best thing I ever did when the Army started talking "Medical Retirement", I walked into Med Det and asked for a copy of EVERYTHING in my Medical records. Saved a bunch of time when filing my claim.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Smart man. Thanks for your comments

[@jabojr5171]

I checked on one of my latest meetings with one of their doctors and he outright lied in his report. He stated I had no complaints, when I was telling of the pain I was having. It ended up being over 20 polyps and while I went outside the VA to have all of them removed, the VA just called me to set an appt. to follow up on the cancer I had last year. Amazing.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

That it is why it is so important to document everything and make sure the doctors and nursing are properly documenting

[@mickturner957]

I filed for TDIU from 70% Rated PTSD and it's symptoms. I had an outburst incident at work and I was forced to Retire. I had a favorable (to me) Occupational Assessment showing I could not work. I had Lay Statements. I provided all this and the VA "Deferred" my claim. They didn't say why but I figured it out. I need to have a Medical (psychologist) opinion that I can't work. This last one is total BS, what does a Psychologist know about the Labor market and issues of employment for disabled individuals...Not Much. Bottom Line, the VA is, once again, playing sick games with Claims to do anything to Deny them. SO if you file for TDIU, expect this crapola from the VA!

[@Atasham72]

Did it work out in your favor? I'm waiting on my decision to come back now.

[@OldFortBragg]

I retired in 1991 after 23 years. 2 tours in Vietnam (2 helicopter shoot downs), Panama invasion, and Desert Shield/Storm. Last year I finally went to Virginia state veterans' affairs office. She assembled all my medical records from military and civilian. It took 3 months for the VA to approve 90% disability. Now I applied Unemployability claim and approve and now get paid as 100% disabled. I moved to NC and went to NC VA office. I got a 45% off my home taxes for Harnett County NC. I just applied for pulmonary embolism, GERD and hypertension. I had a VA nurse appointment and she asked for information and reviewed my civilian documents. Now waiting for VA to review and come to a decision for 100% rating and possible more compensation. My diagnosis found agent orange and burn toxins in my system.

[@barbarawalsh4936]

My husband's VA pension was for 100% disability while he was alive. The day he died it went to 10% and today they claim he had no disability. I went thru his records and found the disabilities that qualified him for the 100% but I was told those issues could not be counted. VA website shows a $165 increase for 2023 on 10% disability, but I receive far less than that. 8 months after he died I was still getting excuses from the VA. I had to get a Congressman involved and received a check 3 days later. VA never took his mental status into account, even though a judge did a Chapter 51 under WI Mental Health Statutes. VA said there was nothing in his record to indicate mental issues, but I have copies of all the entries regarding it. He has been gone long enough that it does not matter anymore, but I know there are others out there fighting these same situations.

[@boostmobile5326]

Thank You for sharing this.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thank you for sharing with me. So are you now getting his disability as a result of your Congressman? If not, can you call my office 229-226-8183 and schedule a conference call. Thanks Dale

[@v65wings45]

VA Compensation is for the Veteran not the wife. You would qualify for DIC as long as you don't remarry.

[@halfbreedchuck3311]

Dic is for the widow. Of a veteran that die Kia . And children. And parents .

[@halfbreedchuck3311]

Veteran that die at war. Widow gets Dic .also the parents if vet was not marry. And children... Laws changed now due to agent orange . And also widows can keep benefits. If they are older than 50yrs old and get marry again. Pres. Clinton. Make this in to law.

[@RobertKing2012]

Great info. I should have filed for unemployability in 2017 when I was rated 70% PTSD. But I just filed last month. Thanks for giving us vets the real news 🙏

[@mgass1354]

So, at 70% disability and filing for unemployability, you triggered a re-evaluation of your disability rating. I know. This happened to me. If yours goes the same as mine, they will try to slam your rating to 30-50% in that evaluation, taking you out of the 70% minimum rating for unemployability. I know. They tried it with me, reducing my 70% to 30% claiming I was "substantially better" despite nothing in my medical records showing that to be the case. Oh wait. They don't even LOOK at medical records during the evaluations. I know. One evaluator told me so. So yes. There are a lot of benefits out there depending on your rating, status, marriage status, dependents, etc. But, GETTING those benefits takes years, numerous evaluations, fighting the BS, and, in my case, eventually getting a law firm involved. I'm going on 15 years of fighting the VBA. MY latest? I got married. Yeah. THAT has now prompted the VBA to assign a NEW case worker to my claim... because... ????... WHY???? They can't see a marriage certificate and go, "he got married", update my file, and go, "done". Nope. MUST take months... 2 months so far... and I am waiting for them to say I have to have my 100% P&T re-evaluated because I got married.

[@alidi4144]

I applied for unemployability because my vet rep told me to and they also did the same to me fortunately i got a higher level review and it was reinstated

[@markjlly]

Hey RobertKing I dont understand im also 70% for PTSD how can I file for unemployability? Any info would be appreciated thanks

[@RobertKing2012]

@@markjlly hey vet I would suggest you get help from a VSO, Veteran Service Officer because I don't want to give you wrong advice. My situation I was denied unemployability but at the same time we applied for increase from ALL my previous rated issues. I actually got approved for enough increases that I went to 100% P&T.

[@bosco_jryder]

Yeah it pretty tough but I filed while in service due to the fact my battle buddies and platoon sgt was expecting me to tough it out. If I didn’t I would have been screwed by now and this pain I would have to deal with no help but over the counter meds. Please take care of you forget what your peers think récord events keep copies file that claim

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Hey you loook out for your buddies but don't forget to look out for you. Rarely is the military a career

[@TravaillesDuChanson]

I take care of my dad so I really appreciate this information. I've heard about some veterans actually getting overpaid unknowingly to them and now they are expected to repay the gov thousands of dollars which is absolutely ridiculous. Veterans under this administration are abused. It's sad. Thanks for the video and you're a very handsome man!! ;)

[@mrmic7065]

Veterans‼️. You need to work on this prior to exiting the military. Especially guys like me who've done over 20 years. It's okay to go to sick call or mental health gentlemen. Record everything, it does not make you a dirtbag. I know what we're taught. Tracking all.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Many men and women are chastised for going on sick call but I agree. The military doesn't train you to record and document your personal status and health only others. Need to be mindful of that. Thanks for the comment

[@cookreviews]

Thanks for this info the #4 and #5 were new to me. The other three seemed obvious, but that's just me. So far my updates in status are going well. Thanks for supporting us!!!!!

[@davidsonlawoffices]

I am happy to support our Veterans. Thank you

[@jehuthegiver]

OUR Veterans deserve......The World!!! File your claim! I got Stage 3 Cancer from those burn fields, and it sucks!!

[@James-qz5ny]

May God give you peace and comfort

[@fredsieber2676]

Make sure you continue to be seen by your provider so that you keep up the history that it is ongoing.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks for the comment and a great suggestion.

[@SemperFortner]

My husband has been having a hard time getting his disability since 94. The hold up is the doctor's notes can't be read. You can't even find a single legible letter in the chicken scratch. He is service connected but still 0% because of this. Now he's not able to work, diagnosed with hearing loss, CHF, diabetes, COPD, arthritis, neuropathy and plantar facitous. They still won't give him a rating. We have been surviving on my 70% SC but it is getting really hard. I can't work either with my disabilities and having to take care of him. No car so having to rely on VA transportation to appointments. Unfortunately during COVID the va stopped c&p transportation, and the c&p transportation he doesn't qualify for. As he says his life after military service has been nothing but a catch 22 and I'm trying to stop him from giving up.

[@josephelliott4117]

Amazingly after 14 years and 5 denied attempts at getting any disability for my 20yrs service, I hired VA Guardians and went from 0%-100% in six months. Never give up brothers...

[@kfdaddy]

I highly recommend that you get a representative to help with the claim process. I got one through the American Legion and it's the best decision I ever made. I'm a VN vet, 66-67, and I didn't know about the Agent Orange claim until 2009. My rep helped me get to 60% within a couple years based on my medical history. I stayed at 60% until around April 2020 when I got in contact with him about another unrelated matter. After reviewing my history he filed new claims for me, in the middle of the pandemic, which eventually got me to 100% towards the end of 2020. All this while he had to work from home because of the pandemic. Never go it alone if you can find a good rep to help you. They are a fountain of knowledge and will help you get everything you are entitled to.

[@boostmobile5326]

Thanks For this information.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

American Legion agents are good, we also help Veterans and spouses. Thanks for your comments

[@captainrawn3396]

Going to sick call during the late 80's, early 90's, was such a bad stigma put upon soldiers. Soldiers are conditioned to suck it up and drive on

[@johnbethea4505]

I got back from Vietnam in 1967 and didn't know about PTSD and drank and pop pills for several years. Also didn't know about Agent Orange until tested about 40 years later. Now I totally qualify for over 240% but only get max 100%...

[@davidsonlawoffices]

The VA math is strange. Have you also tried applying for SSDI? Your VA income and assets have nothing to do with your Social Security Disability Income. Talk to your local Social Security lawyer for help. Thank you for your service and Bless You and your family

[@johnbethea4505]

@Davidson Law Offices I think you very much and will give it a try. Have a great life..

[@mysticwanderer4787]

That is the problem many of us vets have that served in the 70s on. Many of the things that happened to us simply were not documented. A junior enlisted is not going to go toe to toe with a military doctor or PA to have what they consider simple injuries that we have appeared to recover from put in our medical records. I worked in a shipyard and coughed up blood several times because of exposure to toxic fumes. None of it documented.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

The military teaches you to document fire missions, combat related things, etc. They never tell you to document what happens to you during your service. Hey, we are going to take care of you while serving your country. Lie Lie Lie

[@WilliamEades_Frostbite]

I agree totally. I was a jet Mech and was always told if I got hurt to "Walk It Off and Get Back To It" Years after the fact, I found out that a fall from a maintenance stand almost broke my neck, and now I have all sorts of neurological issues that can't be fixed. But because the fall wasn't documented, I have now been fighting over 35 years for a resolution.

[@jarod644]

Awesome information, brother. I was in from 04-08.. went to the sandbox from November 05 - November 06.. I got medically discharged from the army in 08.. it took almost 2.5 years to find out why my body was freezing up every time i did a sudden movement.. keep in mind, i was in southeast Baghdad with the 101st, and my damn body was giving out in a damn violent combat zone..idk how I made it back, but I did.. I just wanted to let you guys know that most VA hospitals do really care about us vets, and they are taking care of me and my family.. God, I love AMERICA that's why I would have given my life for it.. God bless all the active military, and God bless all the vets out there..

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks for your service! VA Healthcare is different from VA benefits. In my mindits the bloated bureaucracy and lack of proper training.

[@txcavi]

Vets, if your family goes into the military, TELL THEM to stop being a HARD CHARGER , and GO TO SICK CALL OR MEDICAL. Its ALL about when you get older.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Don't forget to document, document and document, then make copies and more copies becuase at some time you will need copies of your documents

[@silverfoxstacker1588]

I was active duty 82-89 in special forces unit I had several injuries and had never filed for anything. 3 years ago 2019 Va rep helped me out with paperwork and file a claim. First was denied but appealed and was awarded 70%. Never to late to file

[@boostmobile5326]

Which Service Organization help you with your claim?

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Great news. Don't forget to monitor your health as you may be able to get an increase to 100% some day. lso, don't forget to apply for SSDI. Thanks and good luck

[@westernmanfisher]

For Active Duty & reserve : Not just your Med. Records: Have your 1st SGT. do an "In line of Duty injury report and keep a copy."

[@igotvictory3591]

Let me tell you, I had 3 Line of Duty injuries in my OMPF from 3 different BNs. My command was on it and I never knew they had did them but they was there when I got ready to put my claim in.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

That is a great idea

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks for your comment

[@geraldbouvy1222]

This is excaltly why, as a medic, I forced my guys to give me an LOD for EVERY injury. I filled out their information, made a note, even If it was 2 sentences. Now, ANYTIME see someone in uniform, I yell at them to report EVERY INJURY. no MATTER HOW SMALL.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Great advice as the military is known for not documenting injuries.

[@Atasham72]

❤❤❤❤

[@geraldbouvy1222]

@davidsonlawoffices (for anyone reading this, i am sure you guys already know) the VA will NOT RECOGNIZE and undocumented/poorly documented injury without a fight. You can LITTERALLY lose body parts in combat, and if it isn't documented, they will make you fight for YEARS to prove service connection. Recrument should include a trip to the VA hospital.

[@karlheeren8727]

Get it on the record and if at all possible obtain personal copies that you keep organized and in a safe place. Also, find a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) and follow his/her advice and allow the VSO to submit your filing. Take pictures of everything, time and date stamped if possible. Your claim is an adversarial process. You have to prove to the VA that you are entitled to those benefits.

[@boostmobile5326]

Excellente Advice.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Document, document and document. Make copies of everything and keep it all organized. I am a lawyer and we also submit claims like the VSO's do, the big difference, we connect our folks to doctors and go to bat with them when doctors try and buck the system.

[@thesarge4457]

Just ran into this channel by accident, So glad I did. How many guys have I heard thru the years that never claimed anything when they got out of Service and now they are hurting, I've even given the forms to fill out to turn in and it never gets filled it out but guys keep on complaining. THE SARGE

[@davidblakesley4801]

I filed my VA claim by myself. It took me about 6 hours over a couple of days, but ultimately, I filed for myself without the support of an attorney. Any attorney would have charged me 3 months of VA benefits or about $12k. I assume it wouldn't have cost them 6 hours of work. What a scheme these guys have going. They really think Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen are dumb as shit. Find somebody who can take you through the process. It took me 12 days to go from 0% to 100%. You can do it too. Good luck.

[@blacksnow5069]

It matters what VA you go to as well. In my experience I've learned to stay away from small town VA clinics. Best to go to a BIG one.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Small town clinics can be used to your advantage because you have a closer relationship with the doctors and see them out in the community. Thanks for your comment

[@dostergroup]

I'm @DC VA, and fought for increase in Back disability for almost 12 years, went to deep Southern Virginia local community (satellite) office and received recommendation THIS MONTH, after 4 visits within 14 weeks time. 🤷🏽🤷🏽‍♂🤷🏽‍♀

[@robertosola7576]

A few more things to keep in mind. If you are being seen at the Base main hospital that visit never makes it into your medical records. For those that are temporarily deployed on a Ship and deployment medical records are made for that deployment. When you return back to the US that temporary medical record gets destroyed and nothing done on the ship will be found in your original medical record. If you see a doctor or are seen make your own copies of these visits and create your own medical record. If you seen in your medical record a carbon paper print out make a copy on a laser printer immediately because that fades within a year or two.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks for your comments. I know it is hard to keeps records but it is very important

[@teresab208]

Glad I retired and took care of everything within the 1st year. All is good

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Congratulations! Its a great day to have a great day and I hope you have a great day!

[@mrsmith1339]

Viet Nam veteran: I got in the VA medical system in 2001.when the had an "open erollment" event. They never mentioned classification for Agent Orange exposure. 7 years ago I was diagnosed with Prostate cancer. VA did not offer the treatment I wanted. I got civilian treatment and had to fight to get the VA to pay for it. I won. The VA wanted a copay for every treatment. Per the VA's own directives, there is no co pay The demand was dropped I was paid sevral months at 100% and then dropped. I obtained the C&P examination sheet , completed it and had my civilian doctor sign it. I have bee receiving compensation ever since. All this shows you must do your own research and be you own advocate. The worat VA employee I have met in 22 years was a patient advocate. She was protecting the VA's money as if it were her own.

[@boostmobile5326]

Correct, the VA's Patient Advocate Department are double agents. They are NOT there to help Veterans. Plus they have a high turnover replacement rate.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

The VA didn't tell you about Agent Orange despite knowing about its toxic effects and they stopped using it in 1975. Congratulations on your vitory. Bless you and your family.

[@bondstephb]

If you haven't taken a college-level Research Methods class, doing your own research can be a total waste of time. You have to be able to read and understand medical documents and articulate them to address your personal issues. This is why you hire a lawyer who has access to this type of research and won't waste your time and money trying to make sense out of "VA medicine". This is why you join the VFW or the American Legion or Disabled American Veterans. This is why you document and save everything. Agent Orange hits everyone at different times of their lives and the VA knows this for a fact. My brother served in 'nam in 68 (Tet) and didn't get sick until he was 71. He died in 2015, 6 months later. I had a patient in 1972 who had just returned stateside after 2 tours and died within 3 months of starting treatment at Madigan. I can't agree with you more about patient advocates. Yes, you have to advocate for yourself, but if you have a DAV Rep helping you or doing it for you, the outcome can be very different. I'm 100% and unemployable due to a cancer diagnosis and stroke on a/d. I don't know how I'm still alive and kicking but I got my bennies and my VA pension is higher than my working wages so I can afford a better apartment and a car that gives me freedom I wouldn't have if I gave up. Mr. Smith, don't waste your time on people who don't have you as a priority. Welcome Home, Mr. Smith. God Bless you and thank you for your service. You are appreciated.

[@richardpeoples8019]

They get bonuses for denying all they can, thats my understanding of how the va works.

[@arthurholmes2210]

Happened to me in Germany in 84 -85 working in the 2&4 warehouse of 3rd S&T , i was being crushed by a forktruck and i could'nt yell for help because it was crushing me against a 18 Wheeler trailer but i got me finger to hit the shifter and knocked it in neutral 🙏🏽! It feel good talking about.

[@joelchatelain9525]

I tried getting my benefits but they say there isn't enough evidence. I try to go to the VA doctors and they keep cancelling my appointments or just call me and say there is nothing they can do. It's so bad with the VA here in Houston another vet killed their self at the hospital last week and still no news coverage or anything

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Do you have access to private doctors? If so, use them. I'm sure there are alot of Vet friendly doctors in the Houston area that could help. If you have PTSD they are obligated to get you examined and if they delay let us know and we will see what we can do for you. Thanks

[@robertodejesus2529]

Great teaching, clear and to the point,thank you

[@davidsonlawoffices]

You are so very welcome. It’s comments like yours that keep my batteries charged so I can make a difference in peoples lives.

[@markanderson77]

One way is to support free markets and end up on a government black list. Doing something wrong or failing to do something in time are not the only reasons a veteran can lose benefits. The VA has been rationing benefits for a long time, and many veterans - myself included - aren't getting a lot of the benefits we are entitled to (e.g. education benefits). The VA has been withholding my education benefits that I was entitled to.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

The government wants to control everything from your income to your health care. Rationing is merely a form of coontrol. Thanks for your comment

[@markanderson77]

@@davidsonlawoffices Right. My position is just abolish the VA entirely.

[@kennethkuehnl2588]

I have always recommended to younger veterans is to keep a copy of your medical records, and to send a copy to someone that you trust. Save this to your computer (both of you). Keep up the good work!

[@DJDarkSeraph]

I was one who waited a long while before applying and when i got my 10% i took that as meh ok. but 10 years later i am fighting for my last 10 percent. multiple hospital stays major issues and if i had just continued to fight i would be at 100%. I am turning 45 and clawing away at that last 10 i need for total disabled.

[@charlestreadway6491]

I filed a long time ago but was denied for SOLs (Solvents, Oils, and Lubricants) because at the time the VA did not recognize them for disabilities, they ended up giving me a 10% for Tinnitus as my MOS in the Marines was Armorer and I were exposed to gunfire while working in a Rifle Range. In the process of filing again for toxic substance exposure under the PACT Act. So hopefully this time I will get approved. I was in during the tail end of Vietnam from 1971 to 1975. My filings go back to 1999. I also have heart problems and high blood pressure which the VA has treated sinse 2009.

[@flojohnson9626]

This is so true. Cousin taking 3 years for help. It's 2024. He was in Veterans of Vietnam

[@jollygreen4662]

I ets in 2005. 2021 I started to apply , 2022 I am now 70% and adding more claims, wish I was less stubborn

[@manuelinciega2272]

Same here! But got out 2017 and finally claimed this year now 80%

[@99SoftailCustom]

Took my 21 years to file for my tinnitus and hearing loss. I should have done it sooner. Thank God it was approved.

[@hikerhobby1204]

Y’all know we’re made of stubborn!

[@thunderjet4294]

Best of luck getting to 100

[@douglasbuck2359]

I retired in Germany in 2005, I was ag Bagram from 2003-04 on 9-month deployment. When I got back to K-town I knew I was done, and I dropped my papers as soon as I hit 20 with two years remaining on my 4 year-long tour. I started going to Landstuhl right away and had my VA exam while still on active duty. When I finally caught the freedom bird, home for good and out-processed in D.C. I had my 60% rating already in the books, but that was only the beginning. Now I have been 100% for over 10 years now. You gotta plan ahead and start thinking about the next phase once you know your career is done!

[@rudyruiz9521]

I think part of the reason for late claims is by lack of diagnosis. It took 15 years after leaving the military to get to see an outside doctor because I was dependent on the VA. They wouldn't or couldn't correctly diagnose me but tried from around 2006-2008. Went to a private doctor and paid out of picked. The problem was getting a referral. Many doctors won't see you at all without a referral

[@DontJumpPlz]

Was called weak, trying to get out of work but over 6 years I went to medical any chance I got for my issues. I didn’t care. Doing BDD. Claimed 25 items. That’s right. Went to my c and p exams. Now let’s see what the VA thinks.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

So sorry about your treatment. Good luck

[@Alpi_Kamikaze]

I did the BDD, retired Feb 28th and got my claim notification May 8th. My claims total was same as you and thank god they rated me at 100% P&T.. Was not expecting it.

[@Bababui69]

I didn't file for like 12 to 14 years. But now 100 percent disabled.

[@thomasmoore6117]

waited 14 years, but also had been attending va for ptsd treatment that 14 years, when i filed 14 years after service instant 70% for ptsd within a month, 30% for ibs-c, depression, anxiety. within a year and a half ended up being p&t unemployable, static with no further evaluations. drawing 100% pay for 5 years now

[@boostmobile5326]

Excellente

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Congratulations. Have you applied for SSDI as well? Its an additional benefit under the Social Security Admin that you may be entitled to.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Very Excellente in deed

[@thomasmoore6117]

@@davidsonlawoffices heard its too hard to get with ptsd so never tried

[@willard398]

I went to a C&P exam 2 days after a hip replacement jacked up on painkillers. I don’t remember a thing about it 😂 Apparently I did a good job. I claimed CHF and they required an Echocardiogram that diagnosed Congestive Heart Failure secondary to Cardiac Sarcoidosis. I think this claim is a home run. I hope 😂😅😂😅

[@glock907]

the “VA” will claim that they reviewed medical records, they don’t. I filed a higher level review and the reviewer gave more credibility to the c&p examiner over my medical examiner claiming that the exam was face to face and my medical specialist spoke to me over the phone. She claimed she reviewed the records etc but if she had read the first paragraph from the c&p exam notes/DBQ she would have seen that it was a phone call additionally the examiner stated that a face to face exam would not have provided any additional information.

[@citylimitpowersportsllc5872]

C&P is what's killing me. They don't care. I couldn't bend the day if my C&P without further injuring myself and she stated that I refused. I didn't refuse I said I can't.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Don't trust them to do their job.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Can you get a second opinion from a private doctor?

[@Marsha-yl8wl]

It also has to do with your getting out of service rating. My husband had three honorable discharges. The last one, seargent major got busted for deliberately causing harm to soldiers and families. My husband was the last one that she set up, for some reason the commander on post sat and watched in hearing. He got busted, everyone that backed three minths previosly she got rid of. This time he had nothing to back up his evidence. Wasnt even his fault. Commander went up to my husband and stated she is hateful and manipulative. She got busted a month later...she had him ranked as no longer an asset. VA got caught deliberately killing him to save money. They destroyed our lives and all his records. So watch your back. Told to my face two years after his death by an gov. Worker...killed on purpose.

[@GenJeFT]

The only thing I have done is #5, not claiming unemployability. After years of being told by the people who I see at the VA to file for unemployability due to my issues I finally am filing this Monday. I suppose it should be easy as its on my treatment records that I should be on unemployability for years due to issues but I kept trying to make a go of it in spite of the problems. 6 or 8 years of trying. In my defense I guess when I was first offered it years ago my business was doing quite well. I had even hired contractors to help out. What ever I had trouble doing I hired someone else to do for me. COVID wiped it all out.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

When applying for unemployability you would be well served to submit medical treatment records and letters to substantiate your claim. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor for an opinion letter to include with your application. This letter should cite the reasons why you’re unable to work, with details to support this claim. If possible, have your doctor include why you’re unable to work at past jobs due to your condition, as well. Good luck

[@Airborne80]

I had multiple injuries, one serious while a Paratrooper with the 18th Airborne. My medical file was as thick as an old school phone book. Years later when I went to file a claim....my entire file was missing. It was not part of the fire. Thank God I had photos of me in casts, I obtained witness statements, etc..... and the VA granted me 80 percent. Moral of the story..... keep copies of your records young people.

[@boostmobile5326]

Great Advice. Thank You.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Congratlations and great move on keeeping documents and photos.

[@sandradockeney4142]

That's why I made a copy of my medical records to include my last physical before leaving the Army.

[@MrJoe-qh2vb]

And what year ?

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Smart move.

[@andrewgaffney4881]

Unfortunately, as a Dual-status Federal employee, I was reluctant to report any injuries that happened on military status due to fear of losing my Federal job. Now I've had to fight tooth and nail to have service connection for most of my medical issues, I know are service related. There are a lot more federal employees like me, though I'm now retired.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Its a shame that military personnel and Federal employees are hesitant to report injuries. Maybe your doctor can help you link your injury to your employment

[@randallbeasley646]

There was no pact act before. That's why I waited 50 years.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Its never too late to file

[@pattucker612]

This is an excellent video! I did all of this work at proving that he suffered with post traumatic stress disorder, which brought on dementia. I tried to get him tested for agent Orange and the doctor said he doesn’t have any of the symptoms.. When he got so bad hospice had to help me take care of him and one of the doctors at the hospital said that there was some type of drugs in his system, but they didn’t know what it was. I bet it was Agent Orange.

[@upperechelon3456]

Great and informative info for veterans.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks you

[@ggcoolg]

Thank you for this channel! Very insightful.

[@DoDgeSwaG]

#3 reason is 100% incorrect. Service connection means you just need to prove the condition onset started while IN service or if your reserve then while on active duty or while training. The best way is a doctor visit and getting a diagnosis. YOU DO NOT NEED TO PIN POINT AN INJURY for a service connected condition. For example, you have knee pain but never had an injury, while in service you go to the doctor and they diagnose it as arthritis, ligament or tendon tears etc. you’re good to go, you don’t need to have fallen down for it to be an “injury”. Just the fact you got it documented while IN SERVICE is automatic service connection.

[@bluray4687]

I hope you're right. I hurt my back in the Navy back in '97. I got out in 01 and filed. The VA said the back injury was not service connected, although it's in my medical record. I recently got a lawyer to help me out

[@DoDgeSwaG]

@@bluray4687 well there’s many reasons they would deny but the most typical is because there’s no diagnosis such as DDD, bulging discs, pinched nerves, etc. if your medical paperwork just says back pain, that is not a condition, that’s just a symptom. If you have current medical documentation that shows a back condition with a medical diagnosis, you can connect that to your back injury in the navy by making sure your current doctor puts verbiage in there that states you’ve had these back problems ever since that injury in the navy. Press your doctors for MRIs and X-rays. You can tell your doctor you want an X-ray or MRI, most will grant one if you just tell them you want it. You’ll be surprised what extra stuff you’d find that can be secondary conditions that are claimable. Good luck and don’t let up

[@davidsonlawoffices]

#3 is not incorrect. You need to prove service connnection, that your injury occured during service. Many statutes give Vets presumptions so you don't have to prove connection. If not, then its a harder road to go down to prove service connection but it can be done, becuase I have done it on several cases.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Hopefully the lawyer can help

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thanks for your comment

[@jbamerican_usnavy]

While onboard the USS Tarawa all we did was drink jet fuel-contaminated water on a daily basis. 40 years later I am dealing with all kinds of GI issues. I am service connected but not for GI issues.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Thats crazy that your not service connected from drinking jet fuel. How did that happen?

[@jfleming572]

We were all told that if we went to a medical call, eventually we would be passed over for promotion. We all believed that to be true. Most veterans didn't complain about injuries or illness.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Unfortunately that was a lie, but still you suffer from the pain. Bless you

[@davidmedrano709]

Very different in today's society

[@cabotheduckdog1039]

I was in during the 90s. If you went to sick call you got hammered by leadership as being a sick call ranger. So I learned very early not to go to to sick call for injuries

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Well it depends on your condition. Your experience is typical but needs to be documented somehow some way. Buddy Statements as we call them are a good way, get your buddies to write down what happend, time, date, etc. and keep in a safe place for possible future use. Thanks

[@rdarktusroett8623]

Thank you I appreciate the information. First video I watch. Looking forward to see more.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

You are so kind. Thank you

[@mitchjohnson9240]

I am a former NSO with the DAV and worked at a large VA Regional Office. I saw a lot of vets lose compensation for various reasons. The most common were: failure to comply, not show up for a scheduled C&P exam, filing another claim and the VA sees something in your records that one of your other conditions has improved. Sometimes the VA makes a mistake and does not schedule a future exam for a temporary rating like prostate cancer (100%). The vet would have stayed at 100% if they had not filled another claim. The VA discovered the error and reduced the rating.

[@g.guerrero9678]

Caring for veterans reinforces our commitment to freedom Bleed or die for my country country

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Without our Veterans we would be speaking a foreign language. Thank you to all Veterans

[@jd8783]

I was injured in Germany sustaining a back injury back in 2000. However the active duty medical board plus VA board only provided me a 10% judgment indicating prior service injury , even though I was healthy and finished boot camp and AIT before going to final duty station. I just gave up hope after multiple failed attempts…I’ve suffered chronic back pain ever since. I’m now 45.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Most claims for service-connected disability compensation are for conditions that began or originated during or after a period of active-duty military service. However, compensation may also be paid for disability caused by the aggravation during the period of service of an injury or disease that existed prior to service. Since your condition was in fact noted at the time of your entrance examination, then in most cases, 38 U.S.C.S. § 1153 apply. Service connection by aggravation is only relevant if the VA finds that a disease or injury was noted at entry and preexisted service. Where a preexisting injury or disease increased in disability during active military service, the injury or disease is considered aggravated by service “unless there is a specific finding that the increase in disability is due to the natural progress of the disease. It is your burden under 38 U.S.C.S. § 1153 to submit evidence of an increase in disability in the preexisting disease or injury.

[@mr-vet]

I made sure to have all my ducks in a row before I retired in 2014. Starting several years before retiring, I started making appointments to follow-up on old injuries/issues, just to refresh them in my med records and bring up issues that I’d never been seen for and made sure to link them to specific periods/incidents during my service. I received a 100% VA rating for about two-dozen medical issues/injuries about 8 months after my retirement date. In Jan 2017 I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (AAL), which is not very common in adults (been in remission for 5 years now, as of this summer). I believe it is related to my service in the Persian Gulf War (Desert Shield/Storm). I was on honeypot burning duty a couple of times, and, when in Iraq I was exposed to soot and oil droplets from burning oil fields, and my unit was just a few km from an Iraqi weapons depot coalition forces destroyed…we actually watched the explosion. I’ve considered filing an new claim for leukemia, but as I’m already rated at 100%, I keep putting it off.

[@flutoporter9131]

Dont file

[@danieldesantiago6472]

I would not recommend filing another claim if you already have 100 percent. From what I have researched that is one way for the VA to look over all of your other claims again and change your rating

[@flutoporter9131]

@@danieldesantiago6472 well i am. P and t 100ptsd....and earlier effective date claim is part of original ptsd

[@andthiswelldefend6271]

Dont file if your a solid 100%. The VA in Palo Alto says burning sheit in the honeypot gives you symptoms like agent orange. I also was exposed to burn pits/oil smoke in 90/91. Make sure your on a good diet/vitamins minerals. Im a 100% btw

[@davidsonlawoffices]

You were smart and planned your exit. Many soldiers don't.

[@thomaslindsey7685]

I want to volunteer to assist other veterans to file for VA veterans. Where can I get training? I'll even pay for the training. Thank you.

[@nickargeny8467]

I would also add to be persistent about getting test. It took me 3 years to get a mri that found my 1 herniated and 3 bulged disk in my back.

[@boostmobile5326]

Thank You for sharing this.

[@nickargeny8467]

@@boostmobile5326 also if someone says you don't need the test or treatment you want ask them to put you were denied it. This way so it goes on your chart as proof of a problem or pain that you tried to do something before putting in a claim or getting it adjusted to try to get it higher.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

You have to be a thorn in their side!

[@dt9233]

Thanks for all your great informative videos. However I wondering about SSD and that DLI that blocks you from receiving SSD for vets and civilians. I'm a Vet, If we were unable to work and don't have enough DLI points does that exclude us from truly getting SSD in our state?

[@davidsonlawoffices]

It is State specific so contact a lawyer in your area that specializes in this

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Hello!

[@relir6030]

I know this vet who waited 43 years to file & he received 50%.

[@davidsonlawoffices]

Do not wait ever. Apply, appeal keep fighting.

[@culvercitycharlie]

i waited 30 years, I'm 40% now...and tryn' for more