VetXL: California! Do You Have Health or Benefits Questions? Ask Below!

2023-05-01T15:55:52-04:00

On Thurs, May 11th at 11 AM PT, VA and community experts were here to answer your questions on benefits, claims, and peer-to-peer support services.

You can ask questions to the following people:
» Pamela Redwine - Coach Veterans Service Representative, LA Regional Office, VA
» SP6 Calvin Payne - Outreach Coordinator, GLAHS, VA
» Natalie Souza - Assistant Veteran Service Center Manager, LA Regional Office, VA
» Sgt Jay Dalrymple - Director, National Cemetery Scheduling Office, VA
» PO2 Dustin Case - Coach Public Contact, LA Regional Office, VA
» Sgt Ed McEvoy - National Outreach Specialist, VA Vet Center
» Melissa Comeau - Director, Military and Veteran Caregiver Network, American Red Cross
» Marianne Delatorre - HHCC Program Coordinator, Elizabeth Dole Foundation
» Nancy Pelayo - Program Manager, LA County Department of Mental Health, VPAN
» Sgt Christopher Vidaurre - Senior Program Manager, George W. Bush Presidential Center
» CPO Missina Schallus - Communications Manager, Center for Women Veterans
» Capt Anthony Rodriguez - Local Interagency Network Coordinator, CalVet
» Kimberly Wheeler - Medical Support Assistant, Long Beach VAHCS, VA

The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet):
The California Department of Veterans Affairs works to serve California veterans and their families. With nearly 1.6 million veterans living in the State, CalVet strives to ensure that its veterans of every era and their families get the state and federal benefits and services they have earned and deserve as a result of selfless and honorable military service. CalVet strives to serve veterans and their families with dignity and compassion and to help them achieve their highest quality of life.

Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN):
A community driven support network serving veterans and their families helping them navigate and link to L.A. County departments, non-profits, the VA, and L.A. City programs. VPAN helps veterans navigate complicated systems by connecting them to a “battle buddy” and linking them to needed resources such as mental health, substance misuse support, housing, workforce development and employment, healthcare, education, legal and other miscellaneous services.

The National Cemetery Scheduling Office (NCSO):
The National Cemetery Scheduling Office is part of the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, National Cemetery Administration. The NCSO responsible for verifying eligibility for burial for Veterans, their spouses, and dependents and scheduling of burial services for 155 VA National Cemeteries across the United States. The NCSO also processes Pre-Need application requests Veterans. A Pre-Need application is used for living Veterans who are preparing their plans for their final resting place.

RallyPoint Answers and Discussion Conduct: https://rly.pt/33ySsg0

RallyPoint Support Center

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2023 5:45 PM

2023-05-01T17:45:20-04:00

Thanks for the info.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made May 1 at 2023 5:51 PM

2023-05-01T17:51:24-04:00

Thanks for joining us! Are there any new benefit changes or additional resources coming to CA veterans in 2023?

Response by Maj Kim Patterson made May 1 at 2023 7:07 PM

2023-05-01T19:07:05-04:00

My question is when will the benefits department be fully staffed? People are dying before their file gets to the top.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made May 3 at 2023 8:05 AM

2023-05-03T08:05:36-04:00

thanks for sharing

Response by PO3 John Bautista made May 4 at 2023 7:50 PM

2023-05-04T19:50:15-04:00

Any new developments on Dental coverage for non-service related Veterans? Sure would be nice if we had at least partial benefits. They would surely help. Many of us Veterans cannot afford Dental coverage and the VA somehow thinks that is ok.

Response by HN Richard Hatton made May 4 at 2023 10:46 PM

2023-05-04T22:46:33-04:00

What type of facilities do dependents have for long term care? My wife is developing dementia, and is my dependdent.

Response by SSgt Robert Basch made May 5 at 2023 3:55 PM

2023-05-05T15:55:43-04:00

I had a video for my appeal on Jan.9,2023. My claim goes back to 2013 with the last denial in 2016. When will I get a decision?

Response by SGT Ruben Lozada made May 8 at 2023 2:35 PM

2023-05-08T14:35:04-04:00

Good afternoon. Excellent post. Thank You for sharing this.

Response by SPC G B made May 8 at 2023 5:36 PM

2023-05-08T17:36:48-04:00

My questionis as a veteran whos been in 3 states now trying to find care from the va California being the first? How to i get an apology due to the lack of care i lost my leg .Due to some not singing of soon enough on paperwork .then to lose my leg in 2020 i didn't receive my first physical therapy till 2023 in washington where for the forst time

Response by LCDR Greg W made May 8 at 2023 5:42 PM

2023-05-08T17:42:29-04:00

Can disability monthly benefit $ be passed down to a surviving spouse?

Response by PO2 Jeffrey Denk made May 8 at 2023 5:43 PM

2023-05-08T17:43:17-04:00

Filed 7/6/22 after being denied Prostate Cancer and Bladder Cancer C&P 1/10/23. Medical records review from QTC 4/4/23. Still pending I thought Cancer issues were expedited. I have supplemental residuals for the removal of my Prostate

Response by SPC Maurice Smith made May 8 at 2023 5:50 PM

2023-05-08T17:50:27-04:00

Am I qualified for educational compensation, as I am %100 disabled.

Response by SSgt Richard Przybylski made May 8 at 2023 6:19 PM

2023-05-08T18:19:18-04:00

I understand that there are a number of departments understaffed. I wanted to be part of the VA and have applied. I get pushed to contract agencies that are completely biased against normalcy. I have been doing IT development and management for over 35 yrs. I am also an individual who had an injury while serving in Korea that gave me 22 broken vertebrae which today is causing neurological issues. Since there were no X-rays taken of my back and only the immediate injury my leg there's no actual proof. The only proof I had at all was an injury received riding a motorcycle showed the previous old injury. So I'm screwed. I am a VA member now. I had a heart attack recently and called the VA suicide Hotline to get an ambulance. When you are having a heart attack you can't call ahead to request when you're having a heart attack. Now the ambulance service is requesting $5000 for the cardiac service. Medicare won't pay and neither will the VA for any of the service. Wow now I know why so many Vet's are homeless. We are treated like the lowest of the low. Maybe you can explain that.

Response by PO2 Jeffrey Denk made May 8 at 2023 6:19 PM

2023-05-08T18:19:48-04:00

Vietnam Vet. Denied Bladder/Prostate cancer. Refiled supplemental claim 7/6/22. C&P 1/10/23. QTC records review 4/4/23. Ebenefits says still pending.

Response by PV2 Roy Ross made May 8 at 2023 6:20 PM

2023-05-08T18:20:41-04:00

I have the same question about the benefits Dept. Request 11,12,13,14,15 for information.

Response by LTJG Phillip Panuco made May 8 at 2023 6:40 PM

2023-05-08T18:40:15-04:00

What VA form do I need to sign for my Son to assist my wife when applying for benefits if I am unable to assist or no longer alive?

Response by ENS Ty Larry made May 8 at 2023 7:10 PM

2023-05-08T19:10:00-04:00

If you have 90% disability will one receive compensation for the rest of one’s life?

Response by PV2 Sonja Meadows made May 8 at 2023 8:49 PM

2023-05-08T20:49:08-04:00

Sargent Jay Dalrymple How does the Pre-Need Burial work? When I do die, there is no one that will see my end of life wishes.

Response by PO2 Randolph Frodsham made May 8 at 2023 9:29 PM

2023-05-08T21:29:28-04:00

I was discharged from active duty in July 1972 and awarded 100% VA disability in October, 2022.
Does my wife qualify for any medical benefits through my VA disability?
Do I qualify to use commissary services at Military Bases near where I live? If so, how do I obtain an ID cars so I will be allowed on Base?

Response by PO3 Kenneth Spencer made May 8 at 2023 11:19 PM

2023-05-08T23:19:58-04:00

Currently a veteran who is awarded TDIU must wait 8-10 years for their spouse to be able to access the DIC benefit, there is a bill in congress which would drop the waiting period to 5 years. My question is what is the rationale for a waiting period of any length? Thank you.

Response by PO1 Lamont Hardy made May 9 at 2023 2:20 AM

2023-05-09T02:20:45-04:00

Is there still a plan to give vets property 100% tax exemption if the service member is 100% disabled? Similar to an homestead exemption in Texas.

Response by CN John Panek made May 9 at 2023 3:52 AM

2023-05-09T03:52:49-04:00

Even though my records were constantly requested from 1970 until 2020 the VA refused to obtain them stating that they were my imagination! Once obtained I almost immediately got my 100% disability rating which I should have gotten in 1970 however they refuse to give me retroactive benefits even though it was obvious that they made gross procedural errors in both my claims filed through the Navy, and in person wants I discovered they had lost the initial claims, one of which they gave me 0% service connection which is now 100% through symptoms I had in service. And totally ignored the other claim of PTSD! The VA lie directly to all the representatives I was able to get, and whom did not pursue my claims because of this! It took me over 50 years to get the examinations I should have received immediately after discharge in relationship to my claims. It was agreed by the examiners that I had the symptoms in service. This should have granted me retroactive benefits, however the VA is still ignoring these facts! I need a representative who is thoroughly familiar with the procedures of getting retroactive benefits! Thanks. Sincerely, John R Panek Jr. . Yes. Even though they have finally produced the records requested in 1970, that they told all my representatives were my imagination/delusions, they are now using the excuse that their imaginary delusions, they say I had concerning my records, are not service connected and therefore my claim is not retroactive! I have also produced records proving my traumas in service and that these records were not my imagination or delusions. Though in order to hide the fact of their gross procedural errors they ignore these facts!

Response by PFC Purn Howard made May 9 at 2023 4:08 AM

2023-05-09T04:08:43-04:00

Hello, I have a few questions: First, I am married to a kenyan but we have residences in Kenya and the U.S. What paperwork is needed to add her to my award being that I am rated at 100% Totally Disabled? Second, we have a child being born in November 2023, and I would like to know when can I complete the dependency paperwork, or must I wait until the child is born with a social security number, because the child will be born in Kenya? Third, what benefits will my wife have as a dependent i.e. can she enroll in school on my status?

Response by PO2 Jane Gavan made May 9 at 2023 5:17 PM

2023-05-09T17:17:29-04:00

Need copies of my disability rating letter. Original destroyed during a in home burglary.

Response by CPO Michael McClellan made May 9 at 2023 6:36 PM

2023-05-09T18:36:31-04:00

Will California ever provide 100% Disabled Veterans property tax full exemptions?

Response by Cpl Ivan Kass made May 9 at 2023 7:42 PM

2023-05-09T19:42:52-04:00

Concerning the PACT Act and my claim for hypertension due to exposure to Agent Orange, I was granted with a 0 percent evaluation, without an increase in my disability rating. The decision was based upon VA records which showed that my diastolic pressure never exceeded 100. I am and have been on continuous medication for hypertension, so the reading would never be over 100. Had I not been on medication, that the VA is providing, my diastolic pressure most certainly would be 100 or more and I would be seriously impaired, or dead. How is this not taken into consideration when making a decision?

Response by PFC Robby Nelson made May 9 at 2023 8:02 PM

2023-05-09T20:02:57-04:00

First hi, 65, Vietnam era veteran exposed to non-ionized radiation from a radar cancer in my endocrine system. 10 years of diarrhea 10 years bedridden you get the picture. My claim was denied originally I put together the rest of the components needed for my claim. Finally, the American Legion turned me on to swords to plowshares where I was able to secure the deputy director of the legal department as my attorney, my hearing was expedited. The judge remanded it back to the VA because it was so blatantly wrong. Now the reason I've included all this is to the core of my problem is been almost a year and 1/2 since my hearing and there's basically been no progress. How do we light a fire under the VA, my attorney has power but still. Any help would greatly be appreciated. A very tired veteran. Thank you

Response by SPC Travis Burton made May 10 at 2023 8:25 AM

2023-05-10T08:25:56-04:00

I would like to know why it took 12 days to get a response from the VA after messaging my medical team through ebenefits, that I needed help because I felt like moving up my life expiration date? I had finally built up the courage to ask for help, just to get shot right back down.

Response by Sgt Henry Broussard made May 10 at 2023 6:55 PM

2023-05-10T18:55:28-04:00

I have the same question about staffing but it concerns Ventura county and our New clinic which seems to be shorthanded on the provider level

Response by SCPO Pepito Salgatar made May 10 at 2023 8:17 PM

2023-05-10T20:17:35-04:00

My question is if my 66yrs old wife with Medicare part A and B can qualify for CHAMVA. I am a permanent disabled veteran.

Response by PO2 Victor Quezada made May 11 at 2023 10:52 AM

2023-05-11T10:52:19-04:00

I have been attempting to attain the new VALife insurance since January 2023. As of now I have been unable to apply due to some form of error when I log in to the life insurance website. The instructions state to call a number which I have and have been transferred around more times than I can remember. No one knows how to fix it or how to help me. One person told me I should write my congressman. What kind of customer service is this, I just want to apply for the life insurance so my family is protected.

Response by PO3 Douglas Webb made May 11 at 2023 11:11 AM

2023-05-11T11:11:00-04:00

Greater Los Angeles Veterans, Military Families, Caregiver, and Survivors:

Veteran Experience Action Centers (VEACs) bring together VA, state, local, and non-profit resources for Veterans and their families to offer virtual 1-on-1 personalized assistance with benefits and services. Watch this video to learn what to expect during the event.

Important note: This event is only for Veterans, service members, family members, caregivers, and survivors residing in the following counties in California: Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura. If you register for this event and you do not reside in one of these six counties, your appointment will be canceled. Additional VEACs will be held in other states across the country. Please visit http://www.va.gov/VEAC for additional information.

On Tuesday - Thursday, May 23 - 25 2023, from 9 am – 2 pm PT, you may schedule an appointment to work directly with an Accredited Representative (AR) to discuss all your needs. This appointment will occur over the telephone.

Veterans Experience Action Center (VEAC) | Veterans Affairs

Response by PO2 Jeffrey Denk made May 11 at 2023 12:18 PM

2023-05-11T12:18:54-04:00

I am not terminal YET! I was under the impression that vets with Cancer moved to the front of the line. Considering I filed a claim 10 months ago after being denied 2 years ago but now fall under the pact act Also how long does it take to get a rating after C&P and medical records review!

Response by PO3 Douglas Webb made May 11 at 2023 1:54 PM

2023-05-11T13:54:28-04:00

Thanks to all of YOU for joining us today! We officially kick off the Q&A at 11am PT; please feel free to ask your questions to all our amazing Community & VA Experts!

Response by PO2 Raul dela Rosa made May 11 at 2023 1:56 PM

2023-05-11T13:56:03-04:00

Is possible to claim another disability connected to secondary disability?

Response by PO2 Raul dela Rosa made May 11 at 2023 1:57 PM

2023-05-11T13:57:18-04:00

How long does an appeal normally takes? I have one that is 1 1/2 year long waiting to be sent to a Federal Judge.

Response by CPO Missina Schallus made May 11 at 2023 2:00 PM

2023-05-11T14:00:29-04:00

Hello, I am Missina Schallus, the Comms Manager in the Center for Women Veterans and a Navy Veteran. Happy to answer questions.

Response by SPC Arthur Guerrero made May 11 at 2023 2:00 PM

2023-05-11T14:00:30-04:00

I have 100% Disability Retirement VA. I have less than 20 years served. My condition is Life Threatening. I had to leave early getting Cancer 2 times. Why don’t I have the privilege of getting Concurrent pay, both VA and Army Retirement?

Response by SGT Kevin Hall made May 11 at 2023 2:01 PM

2023-05-11T14:01:02-04:00

When requesting copies of documents from the National archives, DD214, med recs, etc., how long does it usually take to receive them? I sent a request back in Jan and still have not received any documents that I requested. I am trying to resubmit claims but my rep said they need my med recs. So I cannot move further with the submitting a claim until I get my med recs.

Response by Sgt Christopher Vidaurre made May 11 at 2023 2:01 PM

2023-05-11T14:01:50-04:00

Hello All, My name is Christopher Vidaurre, I am the Senior Program Manager at the George W. Bush Institute. I am here on behalf of the Veterans Wellness Alliance to share “Check-In” Check-In is a first-of-its-kind network that unites peer-led organizations and mental and brain health service providers to connect veterans and their families with high-quality care for mental and brain health services. Please go to veterancheckin.org and fill out our short form to get connected to care. Once you fill out the form within in 72 business hours our Care Coordinator will reach out to you and find the most appropriate care and get you connected. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.

https://www.veterancheckin.org/s/

Check In

Connecting veterans with the support and services they need to live happier, healthier, more successful lives-and to make sure veterans are treated like people, not case numbers, every step of the care journey.

Response by Sgt Henry Broussard made May 11 at 2023 2:17 PM

2023-05-11T14:17:17-04:00

I have the same question about staffing but it concerns Ventura county and our New clinic which seems to be shorthanded on the provider level

Response by Cpl Justin Ballard made May 11 at 2023 2:22 PM

2023-05-11T14:22:39-04:00

what are the rules about paid tuition for children of veterans in California. Did you have to sign up for the military in California? Or if it’s just because you live in California your children have free tuition? Is that only for disabled veterans? And at what percent?

Response by Cpl Justin Ballard made May 11 at 2023 2:24 PM

2023-05-11T14:24:25-04:00

With the new PACT act, is a disability percentage being awarded to operation Iraqi freedom (OIF) veterans? if so, what percentage and for what presumed conditions?

Response by CPL Gregory Denn made May 11 at 2023 2:28 PM

2023-05-11T14:28:29-04:00

Will this webinar be recorded and is there a link to the recording?

Response by Cpl Justin Ballard made May 11 at 2023 2:46 PM

2023-05-11T14:46:48-04:00

How often do they reassess your priority group?

I am a disabled veteran. My wife is also a veteran with no disability percentage and based on our combined income, she was bumped to a lower priority group and pays copays and higher fees for medication. She feels like she is penalized for the combined income, when when she makes less than half of my income and doesn’t have a disability rating.