How do I get my disability started?

CPL Joseph Cray — Wed, 08 May 2019 22:40:43 -0400

Response by SSgt Matthew Castaneda made May 8 at 2019 11:09 PM

SSgt Matthew Castaneda — Wed, 08 May 2019 23:09:59 -0400

Your first step should be to go to google and find the closest DAV in your area. He will need all of your military records. Dd214, medical, and dental. He will outline the best possible outcome for you. He will need a few signatures so you will need to schedule an appointment. Once the DAV has sent all your paperwork in the VA will contact you for evaluations based on your medical records. They will most likely be at tge VA closest to you. Your date for disability starts the day your DAV sends and records are received. Make copies. Do not send actual records. Copies are suffice. He can answer any and all questions. He will also be a veteran and will be your biggest help for any and all needs pertaining to the VA.

Response by SGT Cory Blissitte made May 8 at 2019 11:17 PM

SGT Cory Blissitte — Wed, 08 May 2019 23:17:56 -0400

I got mine by going to my local VA office, and asking about it. I explained to them that my knees and lower back were shot, I have cataracts (at 35 years old, it was something of a surprise), and hearing loss/tinnitus. They sat me down, we did paperwork and got the ball rolling.

Response by SP5 George Trudeau made May 9 at 2019 5:14 AM

SP5 George Trudeau — Thu, 09 May 2019 05:14:24 -0400

Get in touch with either a DAV Nat. Service Foundation, or American Legion Service officer, If you are disabled you can join the DAV, but they will help you even if you are not a member, you must have all your paperwork relating to service etc. These people are great at this and they do not charge you a dime!

Response by Sgt Carlos Rivera made May 9 at 2019 8:29 AM

Sgt Carlos Rivera — Thu, 09 May 2019 08:29:45 -0400

My suggestion is to look for a good Veterans Service Officer, V.A. Claims Agent, or Attorney. Start by going online to V.A. site, specifically section on Applying to Become a V.A. Claims Agent or Attorney. V.A. maintains a list of Veterans Service Officers, V.A. Claims Agents, and Attorneys who operate in your community and have been certified by the V.A. Office of General Counsel. If you are unable to locate it, message me with your city and state, and I'll search for the link and forward to you.

Response by Sgt Stephen Salkof made May 9 at 2019 11:31 AM

Sgt Stephen Salkof — Thu, 09 May 2019 11:31:23 -0400

I suggest obtaining assistance when starting your claim. I have used (and with much success) the DAV. You can starting entering your claim information and assigning a rep to assist via the eBenefits site. Get all your information together beforehand. You can check the status once you start on the va.gov website. Reach out if you need additional information.

Response by SFC Jimmy Arocho made May 20 at 2019 3:44 PM

SFC Jimmy Arocho — Mon, 20 May 2019 15:44:01 -0400

https://benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/factsheets/serviceconnected/DBQs.pdf

DBQs.pdf