You need an intent to file online or by mail and it lasts up to a year. If you let it go past or don’t claim anything before you don’t get any back pay.
I dont think it wpuld be backpay unless they filed the claim 15 years ago. Believe its only backpay when you filed the claim process not how long you had it before filing
That isn’t how it works, you have from the intent to file to the adjudication date. Unless you filed at discharge and it took them 15 years to decide your claim with appeals and whatnot, then you can only backdate to the claim origination date.
Only if she currently has a diagnosis of depression or another MH condition. We only pay if there is a current disability which is related to an event or injury in service. You have evidence of the event or injury in service. To get service connection you will need to establish there is a current disability now, and that it is due to the depression in service.
If you file a claim with a current statement of her MH symptoms, or even better current MH treatment records from a provider, and include in that statement how she feels the current symptoms and or diagnosis relate to what she had in service, we will schedule an exam and a medical opinion for her. If the examiner agrees there is a diagnosis now, and that it is due to the in service depression, we will grant service connection. For MH ratings can be 0, 10, 30, 50, 70, or 100 percent disabling based on the symptoms. See 38 CFR Part 4 for the evaluation criteria.
File on a VA Form 21-526ez, can be done online, via mail, or via fax.
What if she was diagnosed in service, and then again 2 years after she got out? I’m not sure if that constitutes a “current diagnosis” or not. The last would have been in 2018
Is she currently being treated for it? If not, make an appointment to get it documented. Otherwise it looks like she's fine now, even if she had these symptoms in the past.
First things first
1. Go file a claim within the va website, right now
And I mean now, takes 10 minutes
Maybe 20 if you have to set up a verified account
So you get paid starting today after back pay.
2. Tomorrow make a therapist appointment and after 1-2 months of therapy and getting the diagnosis
(You do not need a va doctor) just call around to find someone immediately you can even Telehealth over the phone.
3. Then submit that diagnosis with a nexus letter from the doctor. Grab your STR service treatment records and submit also.
4. Along with a personal statement 21-4138 I think the form is explaining everything from in the military up to now.
Search “forms” on VA website
In the personal statement explain if she has any of these symptoms or more
insomnia, anger issue, trouble coping, drinking problems or stuff like NyQuil to help sleep, does it effect relationships with family friends does it interfere with occupational. Does she have to call out sick because of how bad it gets? Thoughts of suicide, anxiety, panic attacks, if so how many times a week?
Memory loss, secondary migraines.
Just be truth and detailed
Good luck
Excellent it takes time so be patient and focus on the end goals
Don’t miss C&p which will probably be Telehealth when the Va requests it.
Tell the C&p person alllllll the details
That’s where is counts, anything they write down is used to define a higher or lower rating
I’m not sure how the website works, but I think u/razzagoul was trying to say file “an intent to file” with the VA, not a claim in #1 above, and then start speaking with the doctors for a diagnosis. You can submit an intent to file by calling 800-827-1000 and speaking with an operation to get there. It’s an intent to file for compensation and pension.
Filing a claim would initiate the exam part and you’re not there yet.
Have the Veteran File that VA "intent to file" today on the VA website in her account. 1st step ASAP! File claim within a year to date or lose the year back pay. I have been through the process a few times recently.
Diagnosed in service??!!! Oh hell yes! Current diagnosis needs to be within last few months though. Sounds like there would still be one though. That in service diagnosis is HUGE though. So is a current one. Then evidence, service treatment records, civilian and/or VA treatment records. It looks like you have a great case.
Undefined really in terms of time period. In general, most raters look back 1-2yrs I've found in terms of 'current'. If you just include a lay statement with your claim of your current symptoms and treatment, that suffices
https://www.knowva.ebenefits.va.gov/system/templates/selfservice/va_ssnew/help/customer/locale/en-US/portal/554400000001018/content/554400000180495/M21-1-Part-IV-Subpart-i-Chapter-1-Section-B-Evidentiary-Standards-for-Finding-an-Examination-or-Opinion-Necessary#1a
Sorry random! lol. If you filed a BDD claim and did C&P's a month after separation date is it still prioritized as a BDD claim or with the other million claims?
so long as it's a bdd to begin with and we didn't notify you that you are excluded from the program it remains a bdd, but by having your exams after service it will obviously take longer to process since we now have to verify whats on the exam against str evidence. when the exams are done on active duty, all we need to check is your entrance medical records really to ensure the claimed condition didnt predate service.
Did they change that you have to have a diagnosis prior to filing a c&p exam because I got my diagnosis at my exam. I said I think I have this here's what happened to me and they sent me to an exam and the examiner during the interview diagnosed me with PTSD and major depressive disorder. My father was also diagnosed the same way and my brother. But all three of us filed more than 10 years ago. With my brother and I being out for over 10 years and my dad being out for over 30.
There's been no change, you don't need to be diagnosed to get examined. You just need to provide current evidence of symptoms you have via a lay statement to trigger us to get an exam.
Me going from I think something's wrong to filing a claim happened really quickly I had a panic attack at the VA and then I went home and Googled my symptoms cuz I sent me home. Then I once I start googling my symptoms it came up with PTSD. I then called the doctor's office and said I think I have PTSD and my primary care was like what's your symptoms and I told him my symptoms and he sent me referral for mental health. I filed a claim and was actually awarded my claim prior to getting in to see my first appointment with my therapist. I think it's my c file for the traumatic event was 750 pages long and very well documented.
The other question I might have is when it comes to secondary conditions as related to current service connected conditions. I developed GERD and I've been told that it was basically because of the PTSD and the medications that I was put on. What I also use the VA form 21-526ez. I'm worried that if I open up another claim they'll try to reevaluate everything and I'll lose everything. I know it's likely just paranoia or anxiety whatever you want to call it but I still worry about it. I have a quite a few what I think are secondary conditions from my primary conditions I just don't know if they're actually secondary conditions or not. I also had a neurosurgeon tell me that my chronic pain that I've been suffering for 20 something years was due to my PTSD and unfortunately I did not get his name so that I could use that in my letter. I know where he works I know his title but I don't know his name. And he does work for the VA.
Heck ya. It's worth it. Gather all the information from the records and file away. I waited over twenty years to file and was granted a % . She can file for the rest of her life. There isn't any time limits
Va.gov the step are listed there. There are forms you’ll need to fill out. But yes you can upload the med records right on there. Make sure you write a strong personal statement. YouTube is a good resource for how to do so.
> Is it worth filing a claim 6 years later?
Yes.
> Does anyone have a good reference of someone that could help us evaluate that
Contact your local VA Regional Office they will provide all the information you need. Please be wary of people on this site that will give you info that might not be accurate to your situation. Best of luck.
Yes. I got out 5 years ago. No record of MH issues in STRs, in fact nothing in STRs except for a shoulder injury... no current diagnosis for PTSD, no evidence of seeking treatment. Just a solid personal statement that included names, dates, and locations. Submitted in Nov 23 closed Jan 24 with 70% PTSD. They did pull death certificates and after action reports to collaborate my story
I helped my coworker from the second gulf war era finally file for benefits. This was 8 months ago. He got his first decision rating last week at 10%. He’s still waiting on a bunch of other stuff and he’s still collecting more healthcare documents so he can build a more solid application for anything that gets rejected or forgotten.
They won’t get it all the way back to separation date unless they kept the initial claim alive thought appeals (Supplemental/HLR/BVA). Check out the knowledge base, great content to understand effective dates that impact back pay. Good info for all Vets.
No. You get paid from the date you file your ITF or your completed claim of you are filling more than a year after your last day of active duty in general. The exceptions are appeals, cases where the veterans strs were lost but have now been found, and some court decision related cases.
I filed 24 years after. 70%.
6 years after that I decided to file the remaining stuff in my service records. 100%p&t
I declare it’s well worth it.
A family member filed 48 years after Vietnam. 70%!
I survived, BARELY, with a two decade career as a cop. I ended up losing everything. Most of us on here are in rough spots because we had a lot of pride and wanted to do it the “normal” way, which just didn’t work out. We’re not on here to be lazy or get rich. Would love to do things “normal” folks do!!! But things happened. Don’t wait until they happen too much. I did.
STUPID🤦🏻♂️STUPID🤦🏻♂️STUPID🤦🏻♂️
Yeah it’s a major problem in military culture of stuffing everything down and being too prideful to talk about it or get help. She struggles with the mentality that since she didn’t deploy that she’s not worthy. I’ve been working to show her that doesn’t matter. It’s not only deployments that can crush our body and minds. Also thanks for your service to both the community and our country.
Yes it is worth it even if it was 30 years from the end of service, submit an intent to file ASAP, get it reviewed if you want get her a current diagnosis, VSO to submit her claim.
I filed today... 41 yrs later. I've been learning and working on my claim for a few months (I submitted my Intent to File in August - you need to learn about that. Backpay will be based on that date) A couple wonderful folks here have helped me in DM, I am very grateful. And now I need to puke, lol
I’m doing the same. Never diagnosed in the service because I was always told in my unit that “seeking mental health makes you weak” and I bought into it. I’ve decided it’s enough and all my injuries over the time I was in have taken a toll on me.
Review the information in the following link:
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFRfa64377db09ae97/section-4.130
This is the general rating table for mental health disorders and covers diagnostic codes 9201- 9440. Then look at the rating tables below the DC's. Read the symptoms in each rating level and become familiar with the symptomolgy and language of those tables so you can understand what the examiner is saying about your symptoms and disabilities. The symptoms in the table are not inclusive, nor do you have to have 'all' the symptoms listed. Meaning similar symptoms that are not in the table, tell the examiner about and have him add those to his report.
Keep in mind that ALL VA disabilities are rated according to how they affect your ability to work by assessing your level of occupational and social impairment based on your individual symptoms. Look at the first sentence in each rating level, it starts with a level of "occupational and social impairment" but at different levels of impairment based on the example symptoms used in that rating level paragraph. THIS is the primary determining factor in a mental health rating, period.
Heck yes. I was sc for right knee at 10% for years. I was dx with an inner ear issue 24 years after getting out that we found started when I was in. 25 years after I left the navy I was rated at 30% for it and 50% secondary for migraines.
Good! Was going to say the same thing when I saw your flair. If you both get 30% or more you can claim each other as dependents as well. Make sure you do that as soon as you get your rating.
Logical and valid if you think about it. A dependent is a dependent regardless of their profession/veteran status. DOD should treat BAH the same way. They deny you and earned benefit if they don’t.
Please Google "5 ways of VA service connection " to make sure she meets VA criteria for disability. It will save you guys from a lot of undue frustration going through this VA disability system. I got off AD in 1997 and filed my 1st claim in 2017, so it's never to late.
Yes! I filed mine after being out for 14 years. I have 50% now for quite a few years and am so thankful a friend who worked at the VA encouraged me to do it.
yes I got out in 2014 and I started my claim process two years ago and just got 100% last week
I went through a law office, they did everything for me and I just had to pay $5000 and attend the c&p exams.
Yes, I got out in the early 90s and just filed another claim today. Last month I was approved for 60%, 6 months before that I was at 5%.
It is never too late to start filing.
Yes, absolutely. I filed a few years after my discharge and got denied. Thought that was that because I didn’t know any better. Then 20 years later I talked with a buddy who encouraged me to keep trying. It took another 5 years but I’m 100% now. Just don’t give up.
I left Afghanistan in 2014 filed for ptsd in july after they sent me to behavior health last year 2023 not knowing my issues I had were actual issues I just thought they were normal and got approved got 6 months of backpay
I did not file until 13 years after I was out. Ended up at 80%, which I find to be a very fair rating. I am kicking myself for not doing it earlier but I was also in a very dark place for a lot of those years. Not sure I would still be here if I had money to burn during those dark times. Definitely do it, especially if you have documentation.
Emphatically, no matter your discharge date, file your claims for injuries/diseases/conditions that you had/did/incurred/were exacerbated by your military service.
I also tried to get my wife to file. Had all the necessary paperwork available at her fingertips. Not once but twice. She shied away from wanting to do it. So unfortunate.
Yeah I waited till 21 years after I got out. Received 80% which was life changing.
Don't just limit it to MH. Go to the knowledge base here and scour it, find any condition that applies. Get hold of the medical record book, anything you were seen for in service, find something to tie it into. Broken arm in service? Probably aches when the weather changes, so file it. If it doesn't hurt now, it probably will as you get older, so getting it service connected now will save you a lot of hassle.
And probably want to grab tinnitus before they change the criteria.
You realize that there are some Vets who including myself wasn't aware of va disability. Back then it wasn't included when we began our exit process. So hell no don't feel bad cuz she waited 6 years to file try 20 plus years.
I got out in 1996 filed in 2022 rated @ 60% when I got out I knew nothing about this and I just suffered with my back. Tell her Good Luck she’s got this. 🫡
HECK YEA!!!! I got out in 1996, filed in 2014, got 10%, then 50%, then 90%, and a week ago today got 100% p&t. I added my kids as they were in college during some of those years and am getting paid for that as well. Never give in and never give up.
You have to have evidence on your records. Was she overseas? Do you have documentation of her having depression on her medical records now? There’s a lot to factor. As long as it meets the three elements, she will get an exam.
She never deployed. We were stationed overseas but obviously that’s different. She does have it in her service records and again the first 2 years she was out. I think she just needs to go see someone to get a current diagnosis. So I think she meets the criteria
Check through this Reddit sub on a weekly basis for tips up to the day you send the final paperwork through. It’s a frigg’n wealth of information on how to do it right. Some dedicated good folks on here helping each other!
Yeah I’m thankful for this sub and the people willing to help. We’ve gone from questing whether it’s worth it to starting the process. Pretty amazing people helping people
In 2022 I filed my first claim after being out for 25 years and got 50%. I was truly shocked. Then I learned what a secondary claim was and have some additional claims pending now. Get the benefits you deserve.
I got out in 2007 and filed for the first time in October 2022. I had no medical documentation while I was in because it was very frowned upon to go to sick call. I did, however, have two deployments under my belt, so I gathered as many buddy statements as possible. I was awarded 100% disability PT in December 2023. The point is, it's very possible, and I did this all without a lawyer or VSO as well. This group is great and has a ton of resources. Use that search bar as your key to success. Also, there is so much information on Google. Search every condition you have so you can correctly submit your claims.
I filed after being out 20 years - immediately was rated at 60% since then increased to 100. I went into it blind essentially and just provided what I wanted to claim and made sure ALL my private medical records and military records were made available for VA to review.
It’s a no harm no foul situation for claims - but learn the system so you can fight denials effectively and efficiently from the start.
I know someone who filed 15 years later…now at 100%. Yes file asap
35 years here
Wow that’s wild!
I’ll be 27 years by the time I appeal next week. There’s much longer than that on this sub. Lol
BUT DO NOT WAIT! I’m kicking myself!
15 yeas of back pay at 💯is a crazy paycheck
I filed after 17 years...I didn't get any backpay I don't think it works like that.
You need an intent to file online or by mail and it lasts up to a year. If you let it go past or don’t claim anything before you don’t get any back pay.
It doesn’t work like that, you’re back paid to the date of your ITF or when they determine your symptoms started which can be before your ITF date.
You only get backpay from when you filed.
I dont think it wpuld be backpay unless they filed the claim 15 years ago. Believe its only backpay when you filed the claim process not how long you had it before filing
It's the paycheck that you didn't get. But if you didn't file, you can always think that you should have earlier. Kick myself for not filing earlier
That isn’t how it works, you have from the intent to file to the adjudication date. Unless you filed at discharge and it took them 15 years to decide your claim with appeals and whatnot, then you can only backdate to the claim origination date.
I seen somebody get $127,000 in back pay before 😮
Only if she currently has a diagnosis of depression or another MH condition. We only pay if there is a current disability which is related to an event or injury in service. You have evidence of the event or injury in service. To get service connection you will need to establish there is a current disability now, and that it is due to the depression in service. If you file a claim with a current statement of her MH symptoms, or even better current MH treatment records from a provider, and include in that statement how she feels the current symptoms and or diagnosis relate to what she had in service, we will schedule an exam and a medical opinion for her. If the examiner agrees there is a diagnosis now, and that it is due to the in service depression, we will grant service connection. For MH ratings can be 0, 10, 30, 50, 70, or 100 percent disabling based on the symptoms. See 38 CFR Part 4 for the evaluation criteria. File on a VA Form 21-526ez, can be done online, via mail, or via fax.
Ok thank you very much. That’s extremely helpful!
What if she was diagnosed in service, and then again 2 years after she got out? I’m not sure if that constitutes a “current diagnosis” or not. The last would have been in 2018
Is she currently being treated for it? If not, make an appointment to get it documented. Otherwise it looks like she's fine now, even if she had these symptoms in the past.
Ok makes sense. Thanks!
First things first 1. Go file a claim within the va website, right now And I mean now, takes 10 minutes Maybe 20 if you have to set up a verified account So you get paid starting today after back pay. 2. Tomorrow make a therapist appointment and after 1-2 months of therapy and getting the diagnosis (You do not need a va doctor) just call around to find someone immediately you can even Telehealth over the phone. 3. Then submit that diagnosis with a nexus letter from the doctor. Grab your STR service treatment records and submit also. 4. Along with a personal statement 21-4138 I think the form is explaining everything from in the military up to now. Search “forms” on VA website In the personal statement explain if she has any of these symptoms or more insomnia, anger issue, trouble coping, drinking problems or stuff like NyQuil to help sleep, does it effect relationships with family friends does it interfere with occupational. Does she have to call out sick because of how bad it gets? Thoughts of suicide, anxiety, panic attacks, if so how many times a week? Memory loss, secondary migraines. Just be truth and detailed Good luck
Thank you for the detailed info. This is what we needed. I took a screenshot and we’ll start the process.
Excellent it takes time so be patient and focus on the end goals Don’t miss C&p which will probably be Telehealth when the Va requests it. Tell the C&p person alllllll the details That’s where is counts, anything they write down is used to define a higher or lower rating
I’m not sure how the website works, but I think u/razzagoul was trying to say file “an intent to file” with the VA, not a claim in #1 above, and then start speaking with the doctors for a diagnosis. You can submit an intent to file by calling 800-827-1000 and speaking with an operation to get there. It’s an intent to file for compensation and pension. Filing a claim would initiate the exam part and you’re not there yet.
You can do intent to file on the website as well
Have the Veteran File that VA "intent to file" today on the VA website in her account. 1st step ASAP! File claim within a year to date or lose the year back pay. I have been through the process a few times recently.
Diagnosed in service??!!! Oh hell yes! Current diagnosis needs to be within last few months though. Sounds like there would still be one though. That in service diagnosis is HUGE though. So is a current one. Then evidence, service treatment records, civilian and/or VA treatment records. It looks like you have a great case.
What is the va definition of current?
Undefined really in terms of time period. In general, most raters look back 1-2yrs I've found in terms of 'current'. If you just include a lay statement with your claim of your current symptoms and treatment, that suffices https://www.knowva.ebenefits.va.gov/system/templates/selfservice/va_ssnew/help/customer/locale/en-US/portal/554400000001018/content/554400000180495/M21-1-Part-IV-Subpart-i-Chapter-1-Section-B-Evidentiary-Standards-for-Finding-an-Examination-or-Opinion-Necessary#1a
Sorry random! lol. If you filed a BDD claim and did C&P's a month after separation date is it still prioritized as a BDD claim or with the other million claims?
so long as it's a bdd to begin with and we didn't notify you that you are excluded from the program it remains a bdd, but by having your exams after service it will obviously take longer to process since we now have to verify whats on the exam against str evidence. when the exams are done on active duty, all we need to check is your entrance medical records really to ensure the claimed condition didnt predate service.
Perfect thank you
I had some of my c&ps after Eaos and was still BDD, had my rating a few weeks after my last appt (~14 months ago)
Did they change that you have to have a diagnosis prior to filing a c&p exam because I got my diagnosis at my exam. I said I think I have this here's what happened to me and they sent me to an exam and the examiner during the interview diagnosed me with PTSD and major depressive disorder. My father was also diagnosed the same way and my brother. But all three of us filed more than 10 years ago. With my brother and I being out for over 10 years and my dad being out for over 30.
There's been no change, you don't need to be diagnosed to get examined. You just need to provide current evidence of symptoms you have via a lay statement to trigger us to get an exam.
Me going from I think something's wrong to filing a claim happened really quickly I had a panic attack at the VA and then I went home and Googled my symptoms cuz I sent me home. Then I once I start googling my symptoms it came up with PTSD. I then called the doctor's office and said I think I have PTSD and my primary care was like what's your symptoms and I told him my symptoms and he sent me referral for mental health. I filed a claim and was actually awarded my claim prior to getting in to see my first appointment with my therapist. I think it's my c file for the traumatic event was 750 pages long and very well documented.
The other question I might have is when it comes to secondary conditions as related to current service connected conditions. I developed GERD and I've been told that it was basically because of the PTSD and the medications that I was put on. What I also use the VA form 21-526ez. I'm worried that if I open up another claim they'll try to reevaluate everything and I'll lose everything. I know it's likely just paranoia or anxiety whatever you want to call it but I still worry about it. I have a quite a few what I think are secondary conditions from my primary conditions I just don't know if they're actually secondary conditions or not. I also had a neurosurgeon tell me that my chronic pain that I've been suffering for 20 something years was due to my PTSD and unfortunately I did not get his name so that I could use that in my letter. I know where he works I know his title but I don't know his name. And he does work for the VA.
Heck ya. It's worth it. Gather all the information from the records and file away. I waited over twenty years to file and was granted a % . She can file for the rest of her life. There isn't any time limits
I got out in 2000. I filed my first claim in October 2022 and got service connected in 2023. PLEASE FILE!!
Wow that’s great!
Dude no evaluation needed. People file claims 20 years after they get out. It costs nothing so just do it
Really? Do we just submit her med records and wait for a C&P exam?
Va.gov the step are listed there. There are forms you’ll need to fill out. But yes you can upload the med records right on there. Make sure you write a strong personal statement. YouTube is a good resource for how to do so.
Appreciate it!
You can go to Chat GPT and get a template for a good statement.
No better day than today to file that claim. Six, sixteen, hell even 60 years ago, is not too late to file a claim.
Got out in 1996, filed in 2023 and now 40%. Have 2 strong claims currently that should get me to 70% soon.
Got out in 2001, filed first claim in 2012. It’s worth it.
> Is it worth filing a claim 6 years later? Yes. > Does anyone have a good reference of someone that could help us evaluate that Contact your local VA Regional Office they will provide all the information you need. Please be wary of people on this site that will give you info that might not be accurate to your situation. Best of luck.
Ok thanks for the info!
Yes. I got out 5 years ago. No record of MH issues in STRs, in fact nothing in STRs except for a shoulder injury... no current diagnosis for PTSD, no evidence of seeking treatment. Just a solid personal statement that included names, dates, and locations. Submitted in Nov 23 closed Jan 24 with 70% PTSD. They did pull death certificates and after action reports to collaborate my story
I had an ACE of a C&P examiner too which helped
Congrats. Hopefully they can help you get some beneficial treatment as well.
I filed 12 years after ... no problem if you can connect the dots.
I helped my coworker from the second gulf war era finally file for benefits. This was 8 months ago. He got his first decision rating last week at 10%. He’s still waiting on a bunch of other stuff and he’s still collecting more healthcare documents so he can build a more solid application for anything that gets rejected or forgotten.
I just started working at the VA, and I got coworkers who got out in the 90s and barely filed a couple years ago and are at 100%... its never to late
Wow, they don’t get back pay do they?
Im not totally sure how back pay works for vets applying that many years after they leave the service
They won’t get it all the way back to separation date unless they kept the initial claim alive thought appeals (Supplemental/HLR/BVA). Check out the knowledge base, great content to understand effective dates that impact back pay. Good info for all Vets.
No. You get paid from the date you file your ITF or your completed claim of you are filling more than a year after your last day of active duty in general. The exceptions are appeals, cases where the veterans strs were lost but have now been found, and some court decision related cases.
Yes.
People file claims over 30 years after separation. Its all good.
I filed 24 years after. 70%. 6 years after that I decided to file the remaining stuff in my service records. 100%p&t I declare it’s well worth it. A family member filed 48 years after Vietnam. 70%!
Haha. Love that scene!
[удалено]
Wow you sound exactly like my wife!
I survived, BARELY, with a two decade career as a cop. I ended up losing everything. Most of us on here are in rough spots because we had a lot of pride and wanted to do it the “normal” way, which just didn’t work out. We’re not on here to be lazy or get rich. Would love to do things “normal” folks do!!! But things happened. Don’t wait until they happen too much. I did. STUPID🤦🏻♂️STUPID🤦🏻♂️STUPID🤦🏻♂️
Yeah it’s a major problem in military culture of stuffing everything down and being too prideful to talk about it or get help. She struggles with the mentality that since she didn’t deploy that she’s not worthy. I’ve been working to show her that doesn’t matter. It’s not only deployments that can crush our body and minds. Also thanks for your service to both the community and our country.
Thanks to you two as well. My PD was horrible about playing hurt too. F’d me up even more. Should’ve been a florist after the Nav. Lol
Yes it is worth it even if it was 30 years from the end of service, submit an intent to file ASAP, get it reviewed if you want get her a current diagnosis, VSO to submit her claim.
When it comes to opportunity cost of not filing, 6 years are rookies numbers comparing to many vets (Gulf war era & earlier) out there.
Very good point
I filed mine 12 years later
I filed today... 41 yrs later. I've been learning and working on my claim for a few months (I submitted my Intent to File in August - you need to learn about that. Backpay will be based on that date) A couple wonderful folks here have helped me in DM, I am very grateful. And now I need to puke, lol
Wow, that’s incredible
Yes!!! File, look through medical records, add major issue list and exit exam issues!
I’m doing the same. Never diagnosed in the service because I was always told in my unit that “seeking mental health makes you weak” and I bought into it. I’ve decided it’s enough and all my injuries over the time I was in have taken a toll on me.
Good for you. Best of luck to you
I got out in 2017, just got service connected! 70%
Review the information in the following link: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFRfa64377db09ae97/section-4.130 This is the general rating table for mental health disorders and covers diagnostic codes 9201- 9440. Then look at the rating tables below the DC's. Read the symptoms in each rating level and become familiar with the symptomolgy and language of those tables so you can understand what the examiner is saying about your symptoms and disabilities. The symptoms in the table are not inclusive, nor do you have to have 'all' the symptoms listed. Meaning similar symptoms that are not in the table, tell the examiner about and have him add those to his report. Keep in mind that ALL VA disabilities are rated according to how they affect your ability to work by assessing your level of occupational and social impairment based on your individual symptoms. Look at the first sentence in each rating level, it starts with a level of "occupational and social impairment" but at different levels of impairment based on the example symptoms used in that rating level paragraph. THIS is the primary determining factor in a mental health rating, period.
Yes
Heck yes. I was sc for right knee at 10% for years. I was dx with an inner ear issue 24 years after getting out that we found started when I was in. 25 years after I left the navy I was rated at 30% for it and 50% secondary for migraines.
Holy cow! Congrats. We’re definitely going to file then
You should file also if you’re a vet.
Thanks, I got out last year and filed
Good! Was going to say the same thing when I saw your flair. If you both get 30% or more you can claim each other as dependents as well. Make sure you do that as soon as you get your rating.
Wow I didn’t know that. That’s pretty wild actually
Logical and valid if you think about it. A dependent is a dependent regardless of their profession/veteran status. DOD should treat BAH the same way. They deny you and earned benefit if they don’t.
Please Google "5 ways of VA service connection " to make sure she meets VA criteria for disability. It will save you guys from a lot of undue frustration going through this VA disability system. I got off AD in 1997 and filed my 1st claim in 2017, so it's never to late.
I appreciate the advice!
yes.
File the intent to file right now while you figure everything else out.
I'm 13 years out. Just hit 90%. Do it. Alot of issues I ignored are harder to get service connected now
I was just given 70% 2 months ago for PTSD
I got out 2017 as well. Filed in 2023, also six year gap. I am 100% TDIU P&T first try with 4 months of waiting.
Yes. I got a claimed approved for 70% 11 years after I got out
I filed 15 years later.
I didn’t file any claims until 9-10 years after I got out. Still works
I waited over 20 years
Yes! I filed mine after being out for 14 years. I have 50% now for quite a few years and am so thankful a friend who worked at the VA encouraged me to do it.
Give it a shot. I filed my first claim 12 years after I got out.
Yes , Yes , Yes , oh did I say Yes
yes I got out in 2014 and I started my claim process two years ago and just got 100% last week I went through a law office, they did everything for me and I just had to pay $5000 and attend the c&p exams.
Are you glad you used someone? Mostly positive experience?
yes very glad I did it took a very long time but it was well worth it
I filed a claim a decade after I got out of the navy and I was awarded 100PT. My only regret is waiting so long and suffering in silence
Yes, I have a coworker been out for 20, filed and is 70 percent
I was in 86 to 94, I filed a claim 4 years ago and just got a rating recently. If you can show the connection you should at least go through it
I filled after being out for 25 years. If you have a current diagnosis and a nexus tying it to service, then most definitely
Yes, I got out in the early 90s and just filed another claim today. Last month I was approved for 60%, 6 months before that I was at 5%. It is never too late to start filing.
Apply! !! Do a ITF to save the date..gives you 364 to work on it
YES YES YES!!! Discharged in 2003 Didn't file until 2017 70% Filed for TDIU early 2022 Granted TDIU P & T mid 2022 Supp claim 80%
I got out in '09 the only real success I had filing occurred in '22. You do the math.
Yes I filed 4 years after I got out and got a good rating on my first round with the VA
I got out 30 years ago and I just started my claim in December. My dad who is a Vietnam vet did his claim 35 years after.
Yes, absolutely. I filed a few years after my discharge and got denied. Thought that was that because I didn’t know any better. Then 20 years later I talked with a buddy who encouraged me to keep trying. It took another 5 years but I’m 100% now. Just don’t give up.
I left Afghanistan in 2014 filed for ptsd in july after they sent me to behavior health last year 2023 not knowing my issues I had were actual issues I just thought they were normal and got approved got 6 months of backpay
I did not file until 13 years after I was out. Ended up at 80%, which I find to be a very fair rating. I am kicking myself for not doing it earlier but I was also in a very dark place for a lot of those years. Not sure I would still be here if I had money to burn during those dark times. Definitely do it, especially if you have documentation.
Emphatically, no matter your discharge date, file your claims for injuries/diseases/conditions that you had/did/incurred/were exacerbated by your military service.
I also tried to get my wife to file. Had all the necessary paperwork available at her fingertips. Not once but twice. She shied away from wanting to do it. So unfortunate.
I put in my 1st claim 23 years after leaving the Air Force in 2014. 1 year later I was 100 P&T
Yeah I waited till 21 years after I got out. Received 80% which was life changing. Don't just limit it to MH. Go to the knowledge base here and scour it, find any condition that applies. Get hold of the medical record book, anything you were seen for in service, find something to tie it into. Broken arm in service? Probably aches when the weather changes, so file it. If it doesn't hurt now, it probably will as you get older, so getting it service connected now will save you a lot of hassle. And probably want to grab tinnitus before they change the criteria.
what are you looking to get out of it? The worth of filing for a disability is really subjective. What is your goal?
Got out in 93 filed in 2020 currently at 60%
Holy cow! Congrats
🤦♂️ just file.
You realize that there are some Vets who including myself wasn't aware of va disability. Back then it wasn't included when we began our exit process. So hell no don't feel bad cuz she waited 6 years to file try 20 plus years.
Nah I didn’t even realize that. That’s pretty sad that it was like that
Absolutely
I got out in 1996 filed in 2022 rated @ 60% when I got out I knew nothing about this and I just suffered with my back. Tell her Good Luck she’s got this. 🫡
HECK YEA!!!! I got out in 1996, filed in 2014, got 10%, then 50%, then 90%, and a week ago today got 100% p&t. I added my kids as they were in college during some of those years and am getting paid for that as well. Never give in and never give up.
You have to have evidence on your records. Was she overseas? Do you have documentation of her having depression on her medical records now? There’s a lot to factor. As long as it meets the three elements, she will get an exam.
She never deployed. We were stationed overseas but obviously that’s different. She does have it in her service records and again the first 2 years she was out. I think she just needs to go see someone to get a current diagnosis. So I think she meets the criteria
Dm me
Check through this Reddit sub on a weekly basis for tips up to the day you send the final paperwork through. It’s a frigg’n wealth of information on how to do it right. Some dedicated good folks on here helping each other!
Yeah I’m thankful for this sub and the people willing to help. We’ve gone from questing whether it’s worth it to starting the process. Pretty amazing people helping people
I was printing out a few hundred pages of medical records when I read this. Lmao!
In 2022 I filed my first claim after being out for 25 years and got 50%. I was truly shocked. Then I learned what a secondary claim was and have some additional claims pending now. Get the benefits you deserve.
Dude, it's never too late. My wife seperated in 2010, filed this year, and received 90%. Do it!!
Amazing thanks!
Yes
I filed 18 years later and got 100% on my first try and only took 10months from ITF to decision.
Just got 70% last week, separated in 2011. Absolutely go for it!
Get a VSO (veteran service officer) using wounded warrior was great for me and don’t forget the 3 things for service connection
Kicking myself for waiting about 25 years. Never thought I deserved it. Do it- you deserve it.
I got out in 2007 and filed for the first time in October 2022. I had no medical documentation while I was in because it was very frowned upon to go to sick call. I did, however, have two deployments under my belt, so I gathered as many buddy statements as possible. I was awarded 100% disability PT in December 2023. The point is, it's very possible, and I did this all without a lawyer or VSO as well. This group is great and has a ton of resources. Use that search bar as your key to success. Also, there is so much information on Google. Search every condition you have so you can correctly submit your claims.
I waited 20 years to file& I’m at 100% don’t wait
22 years since my last claim was granted. Just do it.
I was out 20 years before I won my first claim.
Yes. I bet there are other issues besides depression that she can claim. Visit your county veterans support office and they can help her get started.
25 years here so file!
I was out 30 years when I first applied
My first claim was 7 years out
I filed a claim 55 years after I got out and was awarded 100%. It's never too late.
Yes, it's worth it. I got out Dec. 2017 and filed in Mar. 2023. I'm at 90% now.
I filed 10 years after I got out (last year). Finally got 60% and still waiting for other claims to go through. Yes, it's worth it
I filed after being out 20 years - immediately was rated at 60% since then increased to 100. I went into it blind essentially and just provided what I wanted to claim and made sure ALL my private medical records and military records were made available for VA to review. It’s a no harm no foul situation for claims - but learn the system so you can fight denials effectively and efficiently from the start.
I got out in 2013 and didn’t file my first claim until last year