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I’d recommend connecting with a VSO like VFW or Legion. You don’t have to be a member but they can help you file the claim in a way that is more clear to the VA.
Contact a VSO like BAH suggested. They can help you navigate the process and their systems have visibility into the VA's. They can be hit or miss on how effective and helpful they are, but they'll know the process well.
You want to file an Intent to File ASAP. This just tells the VA "Hey, I'm planning on filing a disability claim and am working on it now." The date you submit that Intent to File becomes your effective date, assuming your claim is approved. You have one year to file your completed claim from that date.
Step one though is finding a VSO near you that can help, like DAV, VFW, American Legion, etc
This right here. File an intent to file then contact various VSO. Be sure to tell the VSO that you already filed an intent to file so they don’t also do one causing you to miss out on back pay.
It’s definitely still possible to file a claim! You can start by reaching out to a VSO or using their online portal. It might help to gather any relevant medical records, especially related to your symptoms. The process can take time, but they’re there to help guide you through it
And if she doesn’t, like I did, they will send her to the appropriate facilities for testing. I had to go to three different specialists in lieu of my records. But records make it a hell of a lot easier for sure!
Make an appointment to VA hospital and get diagnosed on your tinnitus and other concern then make that report as your evidence when you file a claim. When you loose initially in your claim then that's the time to c I intact VA lawyers for assistance to file an appeal.
I suggest that you file a claim. It is normal for the claim to be denied the first time unless you have a stroke at the VA or you have lost the use of a n eye or limb during service. Be prepared for a fight. I served 20+ years and my initial claim was approved for 30% initially. It took 9 months for them to get my name in the system correct. After two appeals I finally hired an outside organization to maximize my claim. The VFW didn't explain how the math is compiled. I contacted Reemedical.com to finally get the most out of my injuries. Be advised that claims are taking less time than they did when I filed. I have a veteran friend who was a claim adjuster who informed me that they are EXTREMELY overwhelmed. So they have little time looking at each claim. Thus it behoves you to have the right verbiage in the right order for the most efficient processing. Good luck and God bless.
BTW: my ex-wife was medically discharged as she had a seizure (her brain turned off) on the way to her first national guard drill after 8 years of active duty and only received an initial 30% disability rating. Eventhough the VA prescribed epilepsy medicine, they gave her 10% for hemorrhoids and 20% for stress fracture. It took years to get the verbiage correct for her to get the rating she deserved. That's why I say that using an outside agency can be one of the best ways to submit your claim.
Yes it is, I just got 90% for a combat related injury from the early 2000’s. It’s a super slow process but stay the course. Also, not sure what will happen with this new administration either.
File a claim online
Super easy and faster than it used to be. My initial claim took 3 years. I updated recently and it was like 4 months.
To start a request for VA disability benefits, you can apply online at VA.gov or by mail or in person at a VA office.
Online
Go to VA.gov/disability
Apply for disability compensation
By mail
Use VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits
Mail the form to the appropriate address
In person
Visit your local VA office
Turn in your application for processing
Additional resources
You can call 1-800-827-1000 for assistance.
You can find a Veterans Service Officer who can provide free assistance at eBenefits.va.gov.
You can gather supporting documents, including your DD-214, service and private medical records, and buddy statements.
Eligibility
Veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and who have a service-connected disability may be eligible.
Decision time
The Decision Ready Claim (DRC) Program is the fastest way to get your VA claim processed.