Did you wait till you were out to get your disability rating? If so, how long before you made your first claim?

I pretty much got off the plane, dropped my bags off at home, and went to the VA to turn in my claim and med records (holding on to two other copies) same day. The folks in our TAP class really helped us with the whole claims process, what to expect, what to have, and made it very clear to go immediately when we got home. The whole process at the time (2005) took about 5-6 months which was faster than I expected.

I did my claims after getting out, didn’t know anything about a VSO so I did it all on my own it took almost 15 years to finish but I’m 100% now

I out processed in March of 1987 and was given papers to sign for a 20% disability and declined it saying “I am not disabled.”. 20 years later I would come to regret doing that. My non disability would affect my daily life very much and make my job more difficult every day. I put in for VA disability in 2007 and was approved in 6 months for 60% but have always wished I had not declined it in 1987.

Many soldiers will start their claim while out processing. It depends on when you get your TAP training. If you have all the necessary information and are in the VA part of your transition many process it then. However if you do not have that. I would make sure you get an entire copy of your military personnel and medical record and take with you. Upon getting out an obtaining your DED214 member 4, go straight to your local County Veteran Service Officer. They can help you process your claim. I would do this within the first year you get out.

32 years

I waited 37 years and it was granted....probably because hearing loss isn't deniable for those who were artillerymen. So I suppose the allowable wait time depends on the problem.

I retired in 2010 but did not file until 2019. Rated at 90 percent. Should have done it much earlier.

You have 1 year from time of discharge to file a VA claim. of course there is always a waiver to this. You usually can start your claim while your at the end if your enlistment but you should do it no later then 12 months from discharge

Did mine before I retired, went to one of the VAs in San Diego. Was lucky enough to speak with a representative from the DAV who advised me all things I was eligible for. The seminars that were held on base were nothing to what I learned at the VA. My advise, get a jump on it about a year out so you don't have to rush. When I hung up my uniform for the last time my bennies were already in motion.

I received 10% on discharge. After 28 years I am at 70% with an appeal that's been with the board for 7 years.