The Vegas Voice 4-21

Staking a Claim
By: Chuck Dean / Vet 2 Vet
Breaking news for veterans. It’s just been
announced that hypertension will soon be
added to the list of presumptive disabilities caused
by the defoliant Agent Orange in Vietnam.
Veterans struggling with high blood pressure will be advised to
submit claims as soon as it is official. This brings me, once again, to
re-visit the process of filing proper claims.
Probably the most frustrating exercise a veteran can do is figure
out how to let the VA know they qualify for disability benefits and
compensation. It can be a tedious task.
Even if you complete the online version of the claim at the VA’s
Online Application (VONAPP) website, it can take a long time to just
fill in all the blanks, gather the required supporting documentation,
and submit it to the VA and hoping it won’t get kicked back because
you didn’t do it correctly.
Here are a few pointers on how to make the process easier, and ensure
you get everything right the first time:
Filing a “Fully Developed Claim” is the fastest way to get a decision
from the VA. This simply means submitting all of your supporting
documentation with your claim for benefits at one time. This
documentation includes:
1. Any and all medical
evidence (doctor &
hospital reports); this
includes both military
and civilian (if any)
documentation.
2. Attaching copies of
your DD214 or separation
documents.
3. Dependency records (copies of marriage & children’s birth
certificates).
Remember, NEVER submit originals. Make clean copies of
everything. If you have any doubt as to whether or not you should
submit a document always submit it!
To eliminate any confusion, only put in a claim for lingering
conditions that are the result of acute disabilities, or illnesses acquired
during your service; claiming other conditions will only slow down the
decision-making process.
The most effective and surefire way to file your claim is to work with
a Veteran’s Service Organization, (i.e. VFW, American Legion, DVA, VVA,
etc.). These groups know the intricacies of dealing with the VA system,
and will help ensure that your submission is complete and correct.
Their service officer are experts that provide a free and professional
service to all veterans. Good luck!
Chuck Dean served as an Army paratrooper in Vietnam and
through that experience was led to address the many transitional
issues veterans struggle with. He is the author of several important
books for veterans. All can be found on Amazon at: http://www.
amazon.com/author/chuckdeanbooks
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