What tips do you have to navigate VES or Veteran Evaluation Services?

2021-06-08T15:19:07-04:00

What advice do you have for others going through the same process?

Response by MSG Roy Cheever made Jun 9 at 2021 10:51 AM

2021-06-09T10:51:29-04:00

Get off the grid if you can

Response by CPL Jason Northedge made Jun 9 at 2021 12:50 PM

2021-06-09T12:50:38-04:00

Get an attorney. If you are approved for VA disability, they will do every single thing possible to reverse the decision. They will literally lie, cheat and steal to reverse it. (I have proof) GET A 20% LAWYER.

Response by 1LT Voyle Smith made Jun 9 at 2021 2:54 PM

2021-06-09T14:54:51-04:00

I didn’t know anything about them when they first contacted me. They tried to give me the impression they were part of the VA. I was slow to realize they weren’t advocates but actually hostile investigators looking to nullify my claim. I don’t trust them to do what’s right and now avoid them whenever possible.

Response by SPC Greg Abarr made Jun 9 at 2021 7:16 PM

2021-06-09T19:16:15-04:00

Never give up. They will disapprove you over and over trying to get you frustrated and hope you will quit.
It took me 30 years to get a favorable response and I think it was because I keep at it all though I did quit for about 16 years.
I did notice one thing, After Bush was elected the first time I was approved in a year after I submitted my request.

Response by SSgt Jessica Bridges made Jun 9 at 2021 7:20 PM

2021-06-09T19:20:12-04:00

Get access to all your medical records, get advice from others that have been through the process, and don’t wait until after you have officially separated to start the claim process if possible.

Response by SrA Jason Thompson made Jun 9 at 2021 7:29 PM

2021-06-09T19:29:08-04:00

Get and keep copies of everything you send or upload to the VA. I can’t tell you how many times I have faxed papers with confirmed receipt and they still don’t know where it went. Never send small bundles of papers. Make sure that each is numbered with a breakdown of the numbering on the second or third page. This will give them quick access to notes on specific things being provided or contested. Summarize all your doctors appointments and test results for everything claimed. Get letters from doctors if they will not file a DBQ or ask for all documents from the office of the doctor. There are notes that will be there that you are unaware of. And get this book. It’s not cheap but it is the resource of champions!

Response by PO1 Chad Alcock made Jun 9 at 2021 7:41 PM

2021-06-09T19:41:23-04:00

Find yourself a good Veteran Service Officer. Here in Oregon each county has a Veteran Service Office (at least the counties I know). Also, make sure that you have all your medical records prior to exiting the service. I have worked with many veterans that didn't and are now trying to get the information. Buddy statements may also be key in getting your claim approved. If something happened and there is no record in your files, and we know that we didn't go to sick call for things we should have, a letter from a witness can help a lot. Be persistent. The VA will possibly deny your claim. If you feel that they have denied something that they shouldn't have, appeal. A lot of this does go back to having an advocate that will work for you. Any VSO worth a damn will. Just make sure the VSO that you go to for assistance has your best interest in mind. If a VSO is asking for money, look somewhere else. In most cases it is illegal for them to ask you for payment. But some can take a percentage of the award though. A lawyer can ask for payment though and in some cases, a lawyer is definitely warranted. Don't be afraid to ask for help. We know veterans "like" to do stuff on their own, but there are so many nuances, changes, and rules to know, there is no way the average person can keep track. Let the experts work for you! I have had good experiences working with most Veteran Service Officers that I have interacted with. But there are some that call themselves such and are far from it. And also just some that really suck at their jobs. So be selective.

Response by SPC Dwight Turner made Jun 9 at 2021 8:26 PM

2021-06-09T20:26:18-04:00

i got my dissability 6yrs ago due to depression report was sent from VA to my lawyers which went to court they had enough to prove i was disabled and awarded me win
i have a disc of information which i thought i would be entitled to back pay VSO told me after they seen paperwork wind up is when i served seems those who enlisted during peace time dont qualify ? i was treated for depression at ft. knox in 1982 supposdely government doesnt acknowledge the time frame
i feel as if they do but the said no i had them copy the disc which has all my heatlh and service records
since i moved i cant find the discs that sucks !!!! sure whish i knew where i put it
thanks may god be with us all and bless us for those whom we lost

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jun 9 at 2021 8:54 PM

2021-06-09T20:54:20-04:00

I am assuming this focused on preparing for a VA disability initial submission, follow-up or appeal to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
1. I highly recommend contacting DAV, VFW, or any other veterans service organization [VSO]. They have offices dedicated to assisting service members by translating the language of [US Code] Title 10 service-connected injuries and illnesses into [US Code] Title 32 VA disability submissions.
2. Ensure you have a copy [hopefully more than one] of all your service medical records and any civilian medical records during your period of active military service. I highly recommend making pdf copies of all records and storing it on a thumb drive.
3. Start the process no later than six months before your retirement/ETS. Your personnel office should be able to help you by providing information and perhaps contact info for VSO folks who are available to help you navigate the process and follow-up.
Thank you my friend SSG Carlos Madden for alerting me.

Response by SGT Luis Jardon made Jun 9 at 2021 9:33 PM

2021-06-09T21:33:31-04:00

Make copies of all your medical records because the VA will lose paperwork! I was medically separated veteran and I still had to submit and resubmit same paperwork multiple times to get my issues service connected due to the ARMY not including all my medical issues listed or submitted to ft Sam Houston at the time of my final rating. It took me 8 yrs to get my 100% service connected disability permanent & totally rating! Which is bullshit since I was a medical separation case. The VA will deny you many times to try and discourage you, but don’t quit. That what they really want you to do. Don’t wait to start the dreaded paperwork and good luck!

Response by SN Alfonzo Thomas made Jun 9 at 2021 10:09 PM

2021-06-09T22:09:56-04:00

The difference between a 90% approval and a 100% approval is your ability to show patterns of behavior or rituals that stop you from functioning on a daily basis. If you say "I have PTSD because of -----" then you will get 70%. But if you say "I have PTSD because of ‐----- and everytime -------happens, then it triggers me to ---------- every time." And then you show a pattern of how many times you reacted doing that behavior. You have to be numb to your own pattern of behavior instead of going in there telling them what's wrong with you. Hope this makes sense.

Response by SrA Doyle Durham made Jun 10 at 2021 12:48 AM

2021-06-10T00:48:27-04:00

My first suggestion would be to secure a Veteran Representative to wage the war for you, as they are more knowledgeable. equipped to handle this task & have direct access to the VA Records Department. Personally, I took advantage of the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Outreach Office for assistance & to closely monitor the developments of my case. None of this happens overnight & it shouldn't be expected, as there are Millions of us, many still waiting just like you. VFW, DAV, AMVETS, American Legion, and many more resources are available to us; Find an office close to where you live & allow them to guide you along your path... It's Free and they will find or make use of every advantage available to you. You've earned this & then can help! (After I was Medically released/discharged from Active Duty with TBI, Permanent Nerve Damage & PTSD at the 100% Rating, within 2 years my Benefit Compensation was reduced to 20%, losing all Base Access/Medical Care & my ability to maintain living expenses... Over a 20 Year period of time, through multiple evaluations, appeals & even a period with Voc Rehab, I was finally judged as Unemployable & am now compensated at the 100% Rate.)

Response by PO1 Francis Coarr made Jun 10 at 2021 10:49 AM

2021-06-10T10:49:06-04:00

This is NOT a Medical issue when it comes to fighting for your earned benefits, it is a LEGAL issue. Once you realize that this is about crossing "T"'s and dotting "i"'s the issue becomes a lot easier. I recommend reading the entire CFR regarding your rights, but for disability Ratings, This is what you NEED to PROVE legally using medical documentation and Buddy Statements...
"https://www.benefits.va.gov/warms/bookc.asp"

The Good News is that you can Hire a Lawyer to help with the process but it will cost you and I would recommend waiting until the Appeals process before resorting to spending your money. Also Everything that you submit has a TIME PERIOD that needs to be adhered to, Don't Miss and try not to reschedule appointments, they are hard to get.

VA.gov | Veterans Affairs

Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you’ve earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member—like health care, disability, education, and more.

Response by SPC Perry Gresham made Jun 11 at 2021 7:46 AM

2021-06-11T07:46:36-04:00

Checkk up on them! they never turned in my medical exam, never said a word. They sent me to appointments without sending along the authorizations. I would be willing to bet that they are working from home and are not near as watched as they should be. Ive had them hang up on me when kids cry. Not return my calls. Just dont think their watching out for you. They're not.

Response by SSgt Valerie Minchew made Jun 15 at 2021 2:00 PM

2021-06-15T14:00:52-04:00

Get help! If you are still on active duty, get guidance from those who work at your military branch's Transition Center. They're called ACAP for Army, Airman & Family Readiness Center for Air Force, Fleet & Family Readiness Center for Navy; and something similar for USMC.
If you have already transitioned out, see your state's department of veteran affairs county Veteran Assistance Counselor. They can guide you through the process and some will even complete most the forms for you while there in their office.
For MST survivors, start by contacting your states' MST Coordinator for guidance on all the various forms to complete yourself, and those needed by witnesses of friends you told about it to. There are both male & female MST Coordinators. Call your specific gender coordinator for the best assistance.
If you feel like you can handle it on your own, then e-Benefits (is being migrated over to VA.gov website) is there for you!

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Jun 15 at 2021 5:58 PM

2021-06-15T17:58:36-04:00

Apply quickly!

Response by Cpl James R. " Jim" Gossett Jr made Jun 20 at 2021 4:30 PM

2021-06-20T16:30:05-04:00

KEEP ON THEM THEY WILL DO ANYTHING TO KEEP FROM GETTING WHAT YOU DESERVE!!!

Response by PV2 Steven Stockwell made Jul 17 at 2021 8:51 PM

2021-07-17T20:51:26-04:00

Hi I Would ALSO Sugest Contacting One OF the Many Vetrens Groups In YOUR COMUNITY It IS Definitly System Riged AGAINST Us THOUGH So Expect A Long Hard I am A Level C-6 Quadrapaligic FROM falling 60 Feet RELLING from A chopper a DEFECTIVE Hook BROKE I Fought For TWO years JUST To Get 10Percent And It took Another 18 Years To Get 60 Percent But Only Geting Paid 50 Percent Rate I Am Still Fighting Them They Want you To Give up But What Ever You Do Dont I Wish Any One Applying All the best Of Luck Hang In There Dont Quit At Least Now You Can Hire A Lawyer To Help When I Got Out you Couldnt I Am Checking Into To Getting One to Help Me To

Response by SPC Robert Frizzell made Jul 17 at 2021 10:32 PM

2021-07-17T22:32:36-04:00

Make sure you keep all paperwork you generate, and everything they send you. In my case I didn't have the very first documents I sent, and now the VA says they don't exist, however I have been on disability since 2008. If anyone has any questions don't be afraid to ask.

Response by SP5 Edwin Golinski Lesperance made Aug 21 at 2021 5:33 PM

2021-08-21T17:33:24-04:00

Contact the DAV for help.
Every time they refuse your claim, immediately appeal.

Response by SSG Gary R Peek made Sep 17 at 2021 12:23 PM

2021-09-17T12:23:55-04:00

Thankfully I was a 4th generation Military Soldier so I was fully aware of what to keep and not to.

Yes having a full copy of your medical records is a good choice but the only thing the VA is going to pay attention to is the “left side” of those records as that is where you are officially diagnosed with any lasting issues.

It is important to have anything and everything that happened to you diagnosed. Hemorrhoids, vision degradation, hearing loss (if you are in any Combat MOS, you know well there has been times you had forgone ear plugs,”) headaches, knee, back, neck, broken bones, or “trench foot” as they once called it.

If nothing else…just copy it. Hope that helps a bit and yes; start no less then 6 months out.

Response by SSgt Jim Gilmore made Sep 17 at 2021 12:25 PM

2021-09-17T12:25:50-04:00

VES along with LHI & QTC are under contract yo to the VA to perform C&P exams. Contrary to some, these companies do not rate your disability. Additionally, it can only evaluate what the VA wants evaluated. Most of the examiners are very good and there are stories of some who are not so good or even worse.

Those things aside, if you feel the examiner did not do what you thought should have been covered, you can contact your VSO, Accredited Claims Agent or attorney and challenge the exam. You can request a new exam.

Be sure your representative is an Accredited Claims Agent, Accredited VSO or attorney. It is illegal to charge to file a claim. However, it is legal for Accredited VSO, Accredited Claims Agent & attorneys to charge for services on an issue after the claim has been denied. Anyone claiming to be Accredited, ask to see their credentials. If they can't or won't, step away, turn around and run away.

Response by SGT William Hilliard made Oct 19 at 2021 10:42 AM

2021-10-19T10:42:38-04:00

The VA, hired VES for the backlog, deni veterans of Thier claim. The VES puts lies in the your exam so you will get denied, mess up your service years, as a Infantry man I have back issues, had to do IMO, Buddy letter, and they denied me 21 years of service. Thanks Joe Biden, VA Sectary, all the circus clowns in DC

Response by MSG Douglas Johnson made Nov 15 at 2021 3:42 PM

2021-11-15T15:42:46-05:00

Patience. Persistence. Paperwork: be prepared to submit multiple times by email and by hard copy . (that's 4 P's) Don't be discouraged if you are examined for a board and rejected. I was rejected 3 times, and I kept appealing. The written words of caregivers about failure to perform activities of daily living independently count for a great deal. More, really, than the words of providers, although the diagnosis must appear in your chart. The disability ratings explain what conditions and symptoms need to be present to authorize a higher disability rating, as a VA counselor pointed out to me. He did not tell me to lie, and I didn't lie, I just used the right words to describe my symptoms. The symptoms you report and the condition that caregivers and providers describe must match up. Boards are composed of providers, and they know how to read MRIs and X-rays and EKG''s and audiograms. You can't fake your way to a disability. But I can't stress enough: start as soon as you can, even if you didn't see the VA rep on your 120 day window for separation from active duty. You can access your records on my health eVet, which is so much easier that having to make hard copies of your entire medical record. I did and lost it, and the Army lost it, but the VA kept a copy that I gave them prior to separation from active duty, and that saved me. Good Luck God Bless.

Response by SSG David Joubert made Nov 17 at 2021 5:54 PM

2021-11-17T17:54:26-05:00

1. It's best to start the process a year before you retire or leave the military. Make sure you get a certified copy of all your medical records ie. you may have two health folds like myself when you get out. You can ask where to take them prior to signing them out. It took a week for me to get call to come and pick up both medical jacket and certified copys.
2. If it's not written in your active duty medical records it did not happen. I will say things go missing from your medical records and this is why you provide your copy and some how they find the lost item. ie. if you are having trouble with right knee and it's written in your medical records but at some point your left knee starts given you trouble and you never get it written into your medical records. They will not consider your left knee as a rating because it's not written in your medical file. once you are out. I had to look a every medical file to find where both knee's were written in my records and that's what save me as I got my rating for both.
3. Do not think you can use the Va hospital records for rating or increase rating. Get a family Doctor and have them send you to any specialist you may need. The raters have to use those medical notes for your rating if that what you submit. Remember the rating chart was written back in the 1950's so what's wrong with you might not fit in for that type of rating. ie. I'm not saying Va doctors won't help but they don't write anything the would benefit you for that rating or increase.
4. After you get your rating letter read it has it tells you why you only got that rating of 10% and if you had this and this you would have got 20% which is important down the road. If you start to have these types of problems down the road and see a private doctor and have new evident to submit for that increase. Make sure this is something you are sure of before requesting increase that there has not been any improvement written any where on what you submit as it will back fire and they will likely decrease your % rating.
5. Over all when you get your rating letter back an low rating of 30% don't give up and except that rating. Keep fighting for increase like me 40% to 50% to 60% to 70% to 90% and very long time lawyer to help fight and got my 100%.

Response by PO2 Irvin Turberville made Dec 30 at 2021 9:25 AM

2021-12-30T09:25:19-05:00

As others have said, keep copies of everything you submit and records of when and what you submit. I have talked with some veterans who have filed on their own and it went quite well, but those people also did a lot of self-research or got assistance from others who had gone through the process.
If you use a law firm or private company to assist you, ensure you read everything carefully as I have heard where some agreements for the firm to be compensated when you are awarded a claim don't expire if their attempt is unsuccessful (you are denied now, go through a VSO - DAV, VFW, County VSO- and that firm still collects its portion of your new rating).
I mentioned County VSO, they are usually with the state Department of Veterans Affairs (some states may change the name). They are there to assist mostly with those individual states veterans benefits but can also assist with filing a disability claim. They sometimes serve as the official service officer for several different veteran service organizations (American Legion uses them, for one).
If you need to get a copy of your DD 214 or other items from your service record you can sometimes obtain them (if discharged after 2000 sometime, not sure of cutoff date) online from the https://milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/ milconnect website (must have DS Login premium or CAC) which enables you to download to your computer and print. You can order through the archives website https://www.archives.gov/personnel-records-center/dd-214 . and have them mailed to you. Coast Guard can order from the Archive website (if discharged/retired prior to October 1, 2006) if after October 1, 2006 must order from Coast Guard Records https://www.dcms.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Human-Resources-CG-1/Personnel-Service-Center-PSC/BOPS/PSC-BOPS-C/PSC-BOPS-C-MR/PSC-BOPS-C-MR_DD-214_Request/ . Coast Guard records not available through milconnect as that is DOD and CG is DHS.

milConnect: Benefits and Records for DoD Affiliates

Response by PV2 Violet Case made Mar 2 at 2022 3:53 PM

2022-03-02T15:53:38-05:00

Some disabled veterans struggle staying in their own homes. Where they feel more complete in their own self built surrounding. But for example this year we received so much snow it was breaking the winch cable to my plow for my four wheeler. Snow was piling up on roofs and all around me. Putting me in a helpless situation. Does the VA have programs to help? A group of guys some are veterans have started a small business called heros for hire. Two of the guys are veterans, thank God they rescued me, but if I would have had a lower income couldn't afford to pay them enough. I recommend a program that could help pay a percentage to home care providers. To help with maintenance. Not sure about anyone else, but as a disabled veteran living in my own Quiet home means everything to me and my disabilities. We all no veterans have different sleep habits, and many of us wake up at the drop of a pin sound. Please help keep us in our homes.

Response by PV2 Violet Case made Aug 13 at 2022 3:30 PM

2022-08-13T15:30:34-04:00

If you no your disabilities come from the service don't give up. Keep all your records and proof together. I still don't get my rashes, dizzy spells or a few other things at fort McClellan on my claim. But don't give up. Especially those who have been in toxic areas.

Response by CPL Timothy Coffey made Sep 13 at 2022 11:03 PM

2022-09-13T23:03:59-04:00

The most important information I can give is to get a lawyer. I could say more but each case is different and each person handling your claim has own outlook on procedures and evidence. Lawyers can bring everything together.

Response by SGT Ronnie Carter made Oct 19 at 2022 1:46 AM

2022-10-19T01:46:32-04:00

Sorry for the year delay. I'm not on here much. But I am a 100% disabled veteran and really good at VA comp and pension. And very willing to help.

Response by SGT Ronnie Carter made Oct 19 at 2022 1:47 AM

2022-10-19T01:47:34-04:00

Let me know what you need?

Response by SSgt Timothy Anderson made Nov 6 at 2022 9:58 AM

2022-11-06T09:58:50-05:00

I don't know of how much help this would be but I went through the Wounded Warrior Project, and my advocate was someone name Valarie, at least I think that was her name. She handle my case I was receive 100% total and permanent disability.