Chances are, if you are a veteran who is suffering from a knee-related injury, you have heard the terms “flexion” and “extension.”  These are movements that occur at the knee joint and are crucial for everyday mobility.  Simply put–flexion refers to bending the knee vs extension refers to straightening the knee. Want to know why these are so important for your VA disability claim? Read on! What’s the difference between Flexion and Extension? As mentioned above, in a nutshell, it’s just words referencing movements of the knee, but they’re a little more complicated than that when it co ..read more

Navigating the path to obtaining a Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) rating from the VA can be a complex journey for veterans.  Despite the challenges in securing a 100% schedular rating, TDIU presents an alternate route for veterans whose service-connected disabilities inhibit their ability to obtain or maintain gainful employment. Understanding TDIU: A Gateway to 100% Rating TDIU is designed to assist veterans whose service-connected disabilities don’t meet the criteria for a 100% rating on VA’s rating schedule but still render the veteran unable to work.  This ben ..read more

Veterans exposed to jet fuel during their military service may face a range of health issues, from neurological disorders to respiratory problems.  While the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not offer specific benefits for jet fuel exposure, veterans suffering from conditions linked to this exposure may be eligible for VA benefits.  This guide outlines how veterans can understand and pursue these benefits effectively. Understanding Jet Fuel Exposure Jet fuel exposure can occur in various settings – from aircraft maintenance to being stationed near fuel storage areas.  Ve ..read more

The journey to obtaining VA disability benefits can often feel overwhelming to both veterans and their loved ones involved.  With numerous forms to fill out, medical records and other evidence to obtain and the sheer complexity of the claims process itself, it’s no wonder there is a constant need for clarity and efficiency.  The VA’s Automated Decision Support System (ADS) was a key innovation designed by Veterans Affairs to help streamline the disability claims process.  This system utilizes advanced technology to quickly gather and analyze information pertaining to veterans cl ..read more

Are you struggling with a VA claim that feels impossible to prove?  You’re not alone. Many veterans find themselves battling for benefits with little evidence to support their case.  But there’s hope.  This guide will walk you through overcoming these hurdles, helping you turn your ‘unprovable’ VA disability claim into a victory. Understanding the Challenge of Unprovable VA Claims Why are some VA claims hard to prove?  Two big reasons: missing medical records and unclear service connections.  Let’s break these down. The Role of Medical Records and Service Connection Un ..read more

Losing a child who served in the military is an unimaginable grief.  It’s a profound loss that changes the fabric of your life forever.  In recognition of this sacrifice and the unique challenges you may face as a consequence, the VA provides a benefit called Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for parents and other dependents.  These benefits help acknowledge your child’s service and sacrifice, and provide you with financial support in your time of need.  This guide is provided to simplify the process, explaining steps and what’s needed from you. We’ll cover: Am ..read more

Losing a parent is a profound experience that leaves a void that is felt deeply, and this includes parents who served in the military.  The VA designed Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits to help children of veterans with financial stability and contribute to your education and well-being. We’ve created a useful guide to walk you through every step, including:  Am I Eligible? We’ll cover who’s eligible, so you can ensure you get support. How Do I Apply? We’ll guide you through making the process simpler. How Do I Maximize My Benefits? Get the full range of support ..read more

Summary The VA must assume health at service start unless proven otherwise. Clear evidence is required to dispute a veteran’s soundness at entry. Veterans should provide additional evidence if it supports their case, especially regarding aggravation. The Presumption of Soundness is a critical concept for veterans applying for benefits. It revolves around the idea that the Veterans Affairs (VA) cannot reject a claim by simply assuming a veteran’s disability existed before their service. This principle is outlined in 38 U.S.C 1111, highlighting that a veteran is considered to have been in so ..read more

In an unprecedented move, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced a major expansion of health care eligibility for veterans exposed to hazardous conditions and toxins during their service.  Effective March 5, 2024, veterans from any era of service—including those who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, and post-9/11 combat zones—are now directly eligible for VA health care.  This expansion, directed by President Biden and preceding the schedule set by the PACT Act, opens the doors for millions of veterans to receive the care they’ve earned much sooner. I ..read more

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has recently announced a significant update concerning the expansion of disability benefits related to Agent Orange exposure.  The VA intends to broaden the eligibility criteria for Agent Orange disability benefits to include veterans who served in 129 specified locations across the United States, certain areas in Canada, and India during designated time frames.  This decision reflects the VA’s ongoing efforts to ensure veterans receive the support and care they deserve for conditions connected to their service. Key Locations and Dates The prop ..read more