HUGE UPDATES To Mental Health VA Disability Claim And VA Rating Changes

[@TheCivDiv]

1-stop-shop for Veteran benefits: CivDivonline.com Amazon CivDiv Shop: Amazon CivDiv Shop: www.amazon.com/s?k=civdiv+llc&ref=nb_sb_noss Psychiatrist explains mental health changes in our daily lives: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4W3eIKgq9dmqZY All changes in 1 place: kzbin.info/aero/PLIWAR_j02jlERDPh1lf1IbROAQvFITDQW FedReg: www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/02/15/2022-02051/schedule-for-rating-disabilities-mental-disorders - Clay

[@BrittanyAndThePhilbillys]

Finally, woke up with a phone call from my VSO yesterday, 💯 P&T!!! Only took 16 years, several denials and a 6 year long appeal! Stay on it ladies and gents! It is possible!

[@tonybarnes4096]

Congratulations🎉🎉 I got my 100% P&T a year ago.

[@Vikingchamp]

Congratulations!!

[@SumnSweetRL]

Congratulations!

[@FritchFN]

6 years?? I bet that back pay was crazy!!!

[@Diaz-Ramos]

@@FritchFNpossibly but if he was just 100% with c&p exams But good for him He got that P&T and no more exams

[@jrayford9]

You’re quick with it, brother. Thank you for being informative for everyone.

[@wtgardner6914]

Thank you for not only showing what is going on, but where a person can find this. Great work!

[@TheCivDiv]

Hey thanks! No sweat - Clay

[@willboler830]

Btw, I'm not rated for sleep apnea, but I just recently found out I have sleep apnea through a sleep study. I was told initially by nurses and a doctor that its mild, but when I went in to get fitted for my CPAP, she told me that it's actually moderate to severe. I stopped breathing 24 times in my sleep study, and everyone told me it's mild. If you look at the official scale, mild is 5-15, moderate is 15-30, and severe is greater than 30 respiratory events. So yeah, it matters who's doing your evaluation, because they're straight in here lying to us about these types of things.

[@ConcisePsych]

As always, great information. Thank you for keeping us in the loop at all times! I don't even read up on VBA/VHA happenings anymore. I just watch your videos. Thanks Clay!

[@d_k4395]

Thank you for keeping us informed! God bless!

[@donlombard9693]

I filed for a increase and it took 5 days to go from 50 to 70 under the old system

[@jasonlafrance2942]

5 days start to finish for increase?

[@donlombard9693]

@@jasonlafrance2942 yes 5 days I put in the increase on monday and had the c&p on wensday and the increase on friday

[@jefferyegger]

5 days 😂

[@donlombard9693]

@@jefferyegger I did a fdc on monday and that afternoon got a video chat for 2 days later and on friday I recieved the notice for my increase from 50% to 70% the paper work took 2 weeks to catch up

[@jimcarey6500]

If I may ask, what condition was the increase for? I’m trying to get my evidence together for an increase in my PTSD condition. Thanks and congrats 🍻

[@boathemian7694]

Jeezus my anxiety is through the roof.

[@lawrencecrayton9844]

On a scale of 1 to 4??😮

[@MR.F30]

They need to raise ratings for stomach conditions!!

[@isaiahmartinez4671]

I HAVE MY C&P EXAM FEB. 18 @MARTINEZ,CA VA OFFICE! THANK YOU SO MUCH, I WILL GO IN MORE PREPARED FOR MY EXAM, HOPEFULLY I GET CLOSE TO 100%

[@Fh19061]

Once again - it’s a placeholder date. August 00, 2025……it’s not a definite date

[@baghdadbabe2003]

Please show us how to find exactly what your looking at. Everything I click on wants me to download

[@brianharrington-ws2kj]

this will impact new claimants only at such effected dates so if your intent to file is a month before the change you are grandfathered

[@ericflores3044]

A lot of guys I work with kept telling me to file and to use a representative like DAV. After filling out my paperwork the DAV sent it to the VA. My intent to file was in August of 2024. I just had my virtual mental health exam yesterday which the guy literally got up to take a phone call mid chat. Hearing test today and another exam next week. Hopefully I get a decent rating for my injury. My experience with DAV has been hit or miss. One thing is they seem very hard to get a hold of in the San Antonio area.

[@lmakgunn4458]

I have an active mental health claim. Are they going to wait till August to make their decision now???

[@larryhalliday]

Had my C&P exam today for anxiety and depression secondary to tinnitus. Left C&P exam diagnosed with PTSD Dr filled out mental healt DBQ and PTSD DBQ what should my next steps be?

[@dougglasscock6658]

Let me know if you get an answer to this . I have an ITF for the same things . Presently see in private psychiatry .

[@LisaVanSyckel-g8t]

Do you know what an FDA BLACK BOX WARNING IS..?

[@jerrykr7kz]

Veterans Unemployment Benefits Explained I propose that Veterans with medical ratings between 70% and 90%, who are unable to work due to the severity of their condition, be informed of the IU Program as an option. However, this is not currently happening within the VA. The U.S. Government has a program called Unemployability (IU) which appoints disabled Veterans as totally disabled, if they apply through the VA. This can sometimes be used by the VA as a way to prevent combat Veterans or other Veterans from receiving a 100% Medical Rating. It's important to know that there are two different types of ratings used by the VA: one for medical conditions and another for Veteran Unemployability (IU), which pays at a 100% disability rate. So what's the problem with this? Some VA staff may treat you differently based on your rating if it is less than a Medical 100% Rating. Also, certain states require a specific Medical Rating Certificate for benefits, but do not accept an IU rating, such as free hunting and fishing licenses in Arizona. This creates a conflict of interest if the U.S. Government grants someone 100% of their disability, but the VA only grants them 70% to 90% of their medical condition. Shouldn't both programs align in their decision? After all, if a Veteran is unable to work due to their health, shouldn't they receive a 100% rating from both entities?

[@Cyphernakamoto]

What abut the pt 100% soldiers?

[@dbo17coolfresh]

We're fine, relax ❤🙏🏼

[@MrJoemann95]

I’ve heard with the current rating system that don’t want you to have a job and receive 100 percent. But with the new system that will change. Have you heard anything on this?

[@Detroit03133]

Currently at 70% for PTSD should I file for an increase once this goes into effect? If so how hard will it be to get an increase?

[@kevinhendrix8786]

That is the million dollar question. A lot of us are in that same proverbial boat. And I think most of us at 70% would qualify for 100% under the new rating system. This seems like the rare case where the VA actually made a change that will help a lot of veterans. But do we risk seeking an increase? And with that, the potential for a decrease.

[@ronbliss7368]

​@kevinhendrix8786 this is where I'm on the fence. I'm @ 70% for PTSD. Under the new rating schedule, I would qualify for 100% as social impairment is great.

[@gregory4445]

I'm at 70% with PTSD. File for an increase. Got an exam within 5 days. They also scheduled reevaluation for my other disabilities. Currently sitting at 93% total percent NOW. Yes, they did reduce one. Luck, i was still going to the doctor. After all the exams. My percentage stayed almost the same. Went from 94% to 93%. Instead of 100 percent. I received TDIU P& T. Within three weeks of returning the form.

[@JCchadcel]

You should stop trying to abuse the system we know your not at 100% PTSD fraud

[@leggsinthesky]

Enjoying the vids, thanks for posting these. I think it would help if you specified who your video specifically applies to and WHO it does not in the future. Does it apply to folks that already have ratings, currently in the process or future ratings.

[@czinck6397]

What's the website he is going to for the me talk health domains?

[@sJ-bb8lr]

Filed higher level of review for headaches that was found in the year 2021 but denied constantly throughout these last few years.... Now im awaiting a decision which they stated will be 4-5 months

[@GeorgeWDaws]

Thanks for your service

[@walterbarron3486]

Do you have a video about how to file for an increase? I currently have unspecified insomnia at 30% and i want to increase that just dont know how to go about it.

[@rogersmith7808]

First check out 38 CFR to ensure your disability symptoms quality you for a higher rating. If it does and you have medical evidence of that, fill out a VA Form 21-526EZ and include your medical proof.

[@HappiNess4703]

He does

[@TheCivDiv]

Increase here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXucq2eGrpado68si=Sy8ZNOzFVQ0qDkQP - Clay

[@robertogomez5526]

Good job Brother

[@damianbennett3222]

Thanks Clay!.!

[@davidberry617]

So I deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 (Saw combat). deployed to South Korea during the missile crisis of 2012, deployed to 31st MEU, then did the MSG program with one Embassy in South Sudan during the genocidal civil war and my final one being in Israel during severe violence in the country before the war. I was denied PTSD even with all that. What would you consider a good route to fight this?

[@AndrewKeck-q9u]

Hire An Attorney!! Bottom line!!!

[@jasonlafrance2942]

Depends why you were denied. You had to be missing one of the big 3

[@LOTW1]

, first do not hire an attorney. I had less combat experience than you and I did it all myself with the help of my wife. Brother, is not about just making a claim and hope VA looks at your combat record and figure out how much you deserve. If you are suffering from PTSD. First, you need to start seeing a mental health professional. Go to your appointments regularly. Do not miss or "No show" appointments. At some point you are going to get a diagnosis. A VA mental health professional has to diagnose you. Yes, a civilian mental health professional can diagnose you, but that's subject for another time. Once you get a diagnosis, then you make your claim. You will get a C&P appointment. After you attend to this appointment. You just wait for their response. If your situation is serious, and you are offered hospitalization by your mental health professional. Take it, and do not refuse it because of work or whatever excuse we vets normally come up with to avoid hospitalization. This hospitalization will help you tremendously to get a higher rating. To support your claim. Have letters from your chain of command confirming your participation in those conflicts. The higher the rank of the person writing the letter, the better it will serve you. I have my Brigade Command Sergeant Major and my Battalion S2 officer write my letters. Try not to use "buddy letters". Those are letters made by soldiers equal or lower to your rank. VA do not place much value in those. I went from 0% to 70% in six months. And from 70% to 100% P&T in eight months. It can be done, but the proof must be undeniable.

[@davidberry617]

@@LOTW1 Thank you very much for all of this. Its appreciated greatly.

[@jayda3335]

South korean Missile crisis of 2012? What are u talking about? I'm the missile defense ADAFCO for the entire 94thAAMDC, & have no idea what youre referring to. Care to explain?

[@phillipbrandt6075]

Thanks another great video.

[@isaiahmartinez4671]

My C&P exam is coming up Feb 18 , im shooting to aim for 100% , now after watching this video. I can aim to hit 4 domains

[@TheCivDiv]

This criteria is not in effect - Clay

[@-Insert_Name_Here.-]

Oh it will happen. The question is, "Will I still be alive when it does??"

[@vinnie1711]

Hi. If you are struggling, please reach out. You are not alone. ❤ Just know that this random veteran is praying for you 🙏. I won't have to insert your name because God knows it already.

[@-Insert_Name_Here.-]

@@vinnie1711 No struggles. I was just expressing my dissatisfaction of Government efficiency, or lack there of.

[@ginom8450]

Can you please let others know that for Dependent claims for 18+ school children that appear not to be processed. They be missing the acceptance letter for the school been attended. I have been waiting since June 2024. Found out I'm missing document. Thank you

[@ChiniYardman]

@thecivdiv Hey Clay, if a secondary for let's say migraine secondary to Tinnitus was denied and, you file a supplement for migraine secondary to service connected DDS, should that have been a new secondary versus a supplement of new evidence to DDS?

[@TheCivDiv]

If a claim is denied, no matter what, you need to submit an appeal. In this case, supplemental secondary. - Clay

[@rogerchin5773]

What if your supplement Nexus you submit is not to the original claim but to another service connected Disability, the question is should that have been a new secondary reclaim? Can you submit a secondary supplement to a claim that you didn’t file for example, if you file for secondary to tinnitus, but your supplement New evidence secondary to a different service connected should a file a new supplement hopefully that’s not too confusing.

[@MarkSal-s3x]

got diagnosed with adjustment disorder and depressed mood and had to go to a psychiatric hospital and do php, iop and outpatient, for about a month and a half, I was wondering how much I should be rated at if anybody has any insight.

[@IronwoodMains]

Question on the PTSD realm. I am 70% for PTSD, service connected obviously, and have been getting treated for severe OCD over the last year, which they discovered during PTSD therapy sessions. I know that all mental health conditions are under the same umbrella, but would a 70% PTSD and a probable 70% for OCD make a 100% rating, or with there screwy math, would the OCD just lump in at 70% for both mental health conditions?

[@HalfRightFlock]

They already denied me even though the the guy who did my interview said he was recommending me a counselor.

[@jammaho4762]

I am 70% MH, anxiety, depressive disorder, social issues….how can I see if I am a 2, 3 etc? I must have a 3 or two 2….but not certain

[@seannazarak4666]

What if your P&T %100 for mental health? Does this matter?

[@SnwBrdnSOB]

Im curious, why di you think the new MH rating criteria wont be favorable for veterans? I personally think it will be much easier to jump from 70% to 100% compared to the current rating criteria.

[@JoeCampos-y3e]

Filed my claim Sept 17. Is AZ slower than other States?

[@TheCivDiv]

Here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYbPgKB-bKl3btUsi=JgzEjebJsqterTVb - Clay

[@JoeCampos-y3e]

@@TheCivDiv My Dude Clay Semper Fi! Waited 39 yrs to file a claim can you believe it!

[@chrisaskfotiy967]

I wish the VA would publish the proposed changes to Hypertension. It's been mentioned on numerous press conferences. The VA hasn't hasn't said much about the Hypertension study, but it's my understanding the VA is studying aligning the VA's diagnosis for BP, and the ranges to be inline with the AHA. Let's hope it's not another proposal that will look good at first, then a second look makes it not great news for Veterans.

[@angelajohnson4666]

Clay due to collapse of the system some veterans and non veterans are stuck having to help family members who have experienced malpractice against them. So what do you say? Veteran could be possibly employed full time at this point but stuck cleaning up the mess.

[@mistamile]

What steps do I need to take If I want to increase my current mental health rating by myself???

[@Cornspach]

When are they going to start giving out the Molly

[@maksimshirman5457]

Would you be subject to new rating look back if you file another claim for something completely unrelated to MH

[@TheCivDiv]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXXck62qf82Fg7Msi=TwzoxNoQPFuI1G3D - Clay

[@WellsCreativeServices]

Had my C&P Exam about 2 weeks ago :)

[@196940oz]

Anything on sleep Apnea?

[@TheCivDiv]

Nope, at least not yet. If that changes I’ll post ASAP. Be sure to keep tabs on the change playlist, too: kzbin.info/aero/PLIWAR_j02jlERDPh1lf1IbROAQvFITDQW&si=nJ2-HOkmAmhjNe9m - Clay

[@Kelz730]

If I retire 31 AUG 25 where do I fall with a BBD claim ?

[@TheCivDiv]

Depends on when this goes into effect. If your last day of service is before, then you’re rated on the prior (maybe both, depending) but if your last day of service is AFTER the effective date, then you are rated on the ‘new’ schedule. There is nothing you can do about that. - Clay

[@Kelz730]

@ Thanks Clay Love your Videos

[@yellowguerrillas8539]

What does it mean if a mental health exam gets rescheduled 3 times in a row.

[@kevinhendrix8786]

I wouldn't read anything more into that than just that the contracting company is messed up trying to find an examiner. They need to search through their network, find a provider and then schedule it. And it could happen that the doctor they found had to cancel. Irritating, but it isn't something you should worry too much about.

[@yellowguerrillas8539]

@@kevinhendrix8786 thank you Sir!

[@tonyflow1011]

I been 100 pnt for 2 years will this change anything??

[@MightyMach1]

What's the cliff notes?

[@ChevelleRocks88]

Criteria for mental health rating will change. This could be in your favor or against depending on doctor evaluation

[@t8pboy]

Thank you for this splnlation

[@michaelberube2611]

wHO DOES THE CAND P YOUR PSYCOLOGIST OR PSYCHIATRIST ?

[@TheCivDiv]

The answer to this question is my #1 reason why I believe this change is not going to be favorable. - Clay

[@combatdouglas1306]

What about OSA ?

[@shawnkent2818]

Im 100 percent scheduler and IU and permanent and total with 70 percent for ptsd any change will not increase va pay. Also you can be 100 percent scheduler and keep you IU. Because someone posted that you get removed from IU when you get the 100 percent schedule not true I kept mine .

[@sufio4383]

Thank you for your videos I really appreciate them but I have a request. Would you please make a statement in the beginning of your video if this is affecting people who are in the middle of a claim or people who have already been awarded. For instance I'm T and P, I assume this does not affect me.

[@justin6681]

No unless you make another claim

[@JP-nq1qd]

Did you listen to what he said? For those that have already been rated, there is no effect on your rating.

[@LOTW1]

What if I'm 100% P&T? How does that affects me? I've been 100 P&T for 10 years.

[@desmondgulley7904]

Ok what is the chance???????

[@ethenjordan2010]

I wonder if physical fitness is considered "Self-Care". I had some lower leg cracked bones. To this day 8 years later I do not run or do legs because I am so scared of something happening. Its so weird they rated me a 0 for this though. They said its connected, however it's a 0. Makes no sense.

[@GarrettDaigle-qn1rv]

My understanding is a 0% rating will cover the treatment for the injury only, no monthly compensation.

[@ethenjordan2010]

@@GarrettDaigle-qn1rv the problem is they are trying to claim that the mental side of them. aka them hurting still-l 8 years later, me not doing certain activities and social things rates a 0. there's no way they can say it doesn't affect any of that. I literally plan things around them. Not to mention everyone i talk to doesnt seem to take me seriously

[@fragranceman3790]

What about sleep apnea?

[@TheCivDiv]

Latest is here but still April 2025 as I’m typing this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJ-Ydquqgat0Y9Esi=CxuE_ZEeo9zYrPc5 - Clay

[@dalerash6285]

I filed for mental health last December 30th, still waiting for C&P exam.

[@jasonslider2853]

Good luck. Been waiting in step 5 since aug 8th 2024

[@hereforthecomments456]

lol so you’ve waited 16 days?

[@dalerash6285]

@ Last time I filed claims I got notice for C&P exams ASAP, both approved in 3 months !

[@Sinner8707]

Ya gona like that back pay fo sho

[@johnneill5960]

I waited more than 2 years - finally last April was approved 100 ptsd plus a whole lot more with SMC - they back paid me 103k . It was worth it to say the least . Besides the money it’s life changing

[@deploribusrex4480]

The reality is that these new criteria are far more vague and open to interpretation than the old criteria (that listed specific severe symptoms (forgetting one's own name, etc.)). Most of the 50 or 70 percent s/c situations are going to be upgraded to 100% as a result. The other thing that is likely to happen is that there will be a huge influx of veterans who weren't involved in outpatient mental health care before signing up for appointments with MH providers in order to get updated documentation on their degree of impairment in order to revisit claims and get status up to 100%. The appointment wait times are going to increase substantially. These are going to be frustrating conversations since outpatient psychotherapy sessions are supposed to be dedicated to helping veterans actually LOWER their degree of impairment by engaging in self-evaluation and self-change efforts and, therefore, are pointed in the exact opposite direction of increasing disability and/or service-connection ratings.

[@shawnkent2818]

Are you already 100 percent?

[@fredcunningham5301]

I lost 122 dollars from VA for the end of month already 😢

[@marineman54]

Place holder date. It's going to get kicked down the road again. Dont hold your breath on this.

[@brianharrington-ws2kj]

am been rated for mh since 2019 therefore am grandfathered

[@jasonslider2853]

Anyone seen any movement in their claims. Mines been sitting in step 5 since aug 8th 2024... freaking annoyed. Filed mar 5th last year

[@vikkiwinfield1377]

Ugh! That stinks! I have been stuck on step 5 as well. Only since October though. Good luck

[@jasonslider2853]

​@vikkiwinfield1377 ill let ya know if I get any movement

[@brnjones9]

Filed June last year. Just got rated today, but says may increase due to IBS changes they made last year. Still have 2 dx pending.

[@jasonslider2853]

@brnjones9 congrats fill me in on the ibs I'm waiting on mine to come back

[@brnjones9]

@jasonslider2853 I'm not sure because I believe the change was presumptive. Clay has a video about that IBS change on this channel that explains it. Good luck- hoping yours come through soon 🙏

[@JDiego-530]

Meanwhile in Ukraine 😂and here we are getting denials as rhe VA plays its hoky pokie while they make us dance around 👏

[@thestevieclarkproject]

Just like SSDI smh ..the domains

[@MauriceSublett-tv9yy]

Clay I enjoy the news and your research but please take that ky,hoodie off and put on Louisville, lol

[@TheCivDiv]

GO CATS!!! - Clay

[@howardmighty6764]

Im in the Armed Forces.

[@johnrobson1309]

I would be extremely stengy with disability if I was in charge. I have SchizoAffective disorder with major depressive disorder. It's called depressive type. Anyway, I can work though my hallucinations and psychosis for a while and even contain my attitude when I'm burnt out and fed up and even maintain reasonable attendance through my insomnia. I would be fine with receiving a couple grand for only 6 months a year. I basically have two illnesses rated at 100% and I would be fine with 75% less money because I'm strong willed and prideful. I went 15 years without benefits with this disorder and I've had to live with my uncle my whole life in a ghetto environment with people who suck. I should've been so much better off than I ever achieved. I'm still trying to build a house with my monthly payments. I was supposed to be a hacker in the Navy until I got ill. Bs...😢

[@tonyh1305]

Nice swag!!

[@liveguitarcast]

Should we now file for increase of MH ratings? Currently 50%

[@TheCivDiv]

Do you rate a higher rating? If that answer is yes, get your evidence and submit. Absolutely 0 reason to wait, with or without changes. - Clay

[@liveguitarcast]

Thx. Only fear a reduction. Good info, will evaluate.

[@PaulGuerrero-l4o]

Currently, at 70% should I request an increase due to my previous evaluation? The VA is the one who did my evaluation and wrote my Nexus.

[@willboler830]

Oh wow, I might finally qualify for 100. They'd probably still find a way to reduce me tho

[@GeorgeWDaws]

Thanks for your information and video. I'm rated 70%

[@solo.xplorer]

So does that mean the Sleep Apnea changes to take effect will also be in August of 2025?

[@TheCivDiv]

No, that’s not what this means. No changes to tinnitus/sleep apnea…at least as of this moment. The reg here is solely mental health. - Clay

[@nexusletters]

The can got kicked again ;) Just for some perspective the "Alternatives" language is from 2022 as well; for example, see the "January 27, 2022 Subject: Regulatory Impact Analysis for RIN 2900-AQ82(P), Schedule for Rating Disabilities: Mental Disorders" details-- check out the additional document/download file-- in the Supporting & Related Material AQ82(P) RIA to publish (2.15.22) VASRD Mental Disorders Posted by the Department of Veterans Affairs on Feb 15, 2022

[@Diablo_7212]

Nice shirt from another KY vet

[@LarryVillarreal-pk9on]

U and partner speak though u are helping veterans if u are 100 % why u promoting your broadcast getting veterans too sign up with out the entension u getting a kick back

[@ROBERTBUSSE-cu9tu]

If your submitting bullshit claims your just jamming up the system for the people will real issues , stop filing bogus claims .