Who has submitted for VA Benefits? Need advice.

That's why I went to the VSO first. I made sure my package was as complete as I could make it and then submitted through the State Board. That way there are no surprises during your C&P physical. By the by, that physical was like no other. Not even my MEPS physical was a thorough. If during your physical you know you claimed something on your VA 21-526EZ and it isn't brought up ask why?

Best advice I was given for the physical was, VA doctors are nice until it comes to your C&P physical and then they switch hats. You walk in, doc asks how you're doing, you say great. They mark patient has no complaints. Advice was, when they ask how you're doing tell them truthfully how you're doing. Also for the percentages, 10% + 10% doesn't equal 20%. They have a scoring based on your issues and it doesn't stack. I haven't had to fight. So I can't help in that regard. I have heard from fellow veterans that when you fight that's when it takes months to years for satisfaction. I did have to go in a year later for reevaluation of a couple problems which they thought they could fix. If they can correct a problem they will lower your disability. I wasn't correctable, now my disability is permanent.

 

When I got out of the Navy last March it was a rushed process. I got everything done that needed to get done except for the VA due to the long wait for an appointment. I need to call them to start that long drawn out process that I'm not looking forward to.

 

I'm a Lifetime VFW member (joined in 1991). When I retired in 2009, I was represented by our AK VFW Service Officer on the recommendation of numerous friends and associates, to include the Doctor who did my retirement physical exam. VFW Service Officers are paid positions (paid by the VFW) but there is NO CHARGE for their representation. In my opinion, having someone who knows the system and works with it regularly is to your advantage. They know all the proper key terminology that lines up with what the VA people reviewing your package are looking for to determine your rating. I looked up the contact information for VA:
Name: Bobbiejo Lazo
Title: VFW Department Service Officer
Address: 403 Lee Jackson Highway
City: Staunton
Zip: 24401-5506
Phone: 540-563-1437
Email: serviceofficer@va.vfwwebmail.com

There may be another service officer closer to your location, but I didn't see one listed.

My Chief (mentor) lives in NJ (Cherry Hill area) and is represented by the DAV. Found this info for them in your area:
Disabled American Veterans
Address
913 Aberdeen RdHampton VA 23666
Phone
(757) 826-7530

 

Awesome, thanks. I called the Disabled American Veterans the other day and have an appointment setup. I haven't connected with the VFW though, definitely look into that.