Hello everyone, I’m April from The Vocal Veteran. As we celebrate my three months as an accredited claims agent, I continuously receive the same questions concerning my work and the services I provide. To better serve our veteran community, I’ve decided to create a comprehensive FAQ blog to address these questions and offer a clearer understanding of the claims process. This blog aims to provide transparency and make valuable information as accessible as possible, while also commemorating my journey so far. Feel free to ask additional questions directly in the chat section; I’ll be available for an hour to address them before heading back to my client work.
Working with Veterans Out of State
A frequent question I receive is whether I can work with veterans who live outside my state. The answer is a resounding yes! As an accredited claims agent, I can assist any U.S. military veteran regardless of their location, be it another state or even overseas. The VA benefits system is a federal program, ensuring no significant state differences. However, certain states do offer additional veteran benefits, like Oklahoma, which offers no state tax for those with 100% permanent and total disability ratings. It’s crucial to check for specific benefits available in your state, but rest assured, as far as disability ratings go, geographical location poses no barriers to my services.
Eligibility Across Different Branches and Service Types
Another common inquiry is whether I work with veterans from different branches of service. Regardless of your branch, whether you were in the Navy, the Army, or any other, I can work with you. VA disability benefits remain consistent across all military branches and ranks. Additionally, there may be misconceptions around benefits for those in the National Guard or reserves. Even if you weren’t active duty, there might be benefits you are eligible for, and pursuing claims for service-related disabilities is worth considering.
Initial Claims and How to Get Started
For veterans new to the claims process, initial claims are not something claims agents like myself handle. Instead, I encourage veterans to either proceed independently or enlist the help of a veteran service officer. To aid in initial claims, I’ve developed a detailed video series, soon to be linked in the show notes, to guide you step-by-step through the application process. As business owners in this field, we focus on claims that allow continuity of service, hence the emphasis on subsequent claims or appeals. In cases where an appeal is necessary, that’s where my expertise comes into play, advocating for service connection and improved disability ratings.
Fees and Payment Structure
Discussions on fees are always important. Last week, a friend inquired about my charges, given that a veteran friend of his needed assistance. My fee structure is simple: I charge 20% of any back pay recovered when we secure service connection or improve a disability rating. For example, if you are denied service connection for hearing loss, and upon appeal, we succeed, you would receive back pay dating to the appeal’s start date. From this back pay, only 20% is allocated as my fee, with no recurring or upfront costs.
Starting a Claim Before Leaving the Military
If you’re nearing discharge, consider starting your claim. Within 180 days of release, you can initiate this process to ideally have disability ratings established upon leaving the service. However, it’s important to note that given VA’s current workload, timelines may vary. Nevertheless, starting early is beneficial, and I’ll include further guidance in the show notes to help you prepare.
Challenges with Hearing Loss Claims
Hearing loss claims can be particularly challenging. Those with high noise exposure during service often face delays in obtaining service connections. It’s common for VA to deny claims if significant time has passed. My role is to advocate for you by constructing compelling arguments based on your service record to establish the link between noise exposure and hearing deterioration over time.
Encouragement and Final Thoughts
Persistence pays off in claims processes. Even when initial attempts are unsuccessful, professional assistance can make a significant difference. Service connection ensures long-term benefits for both you and your family. I’m dedicated to advocating for veterans’ rights and addressing unjust denials.
Accepting New Clients and Conclusion
I am happy to announce that I’ll be accepting new clients shortly. After attending the National Organization of Veteran Advocates Conference, I anticipate gaining more insight to better serve you. If interested in working with me, visit thevocalveteran.com to apply. It’s rewarding to guide veterans to positive outcomes, to share victories in achieving service connections that you’ve fought for. I am passionate about this mission and eager to assist more veterans on their journey.
Thank you for being part of this community and trusting me with your journey. Visit thevocalveteran.com to learn more about how we can work together. See you next time!