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This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.
Some veterans and their dependents are eligible for various VA disability benefits. These benefits often include monthly cash payments, vocational rehabilitation, medical care, and other forms of support.
The Rating Veterans Service Representative Will Decide Whether You Are Eligible for Benefits
A VRR is a VA employee who evaluates disability claims. After you file a VA disability claim, they will examine your service records and decide whether you are eligible for benefits. Their decision can take anywhere from two weeks to six months, although it is common for the process to take longer.
You Will Be Notified
After your disability claim is accepted or denied, you should receive an official notification from VA. This notification will tell you what benefits you may qualify for and what proof you must provide to prepare. The information may also include an explanation of your rating decision, whether or not you are eligible for a hearing, and how you should proceed with your claim.
Your Case Will Be Forwarded to the Veteran’s Benefits Processing Center
After you submit your claim, VA will forward your case to the Veteran’s Benefits Processing Center. It is a central location where veterans can apply for VA benefits. If you are approved for VA benefits, the VBPCC will send notice via U.S. Mail and email to any eligibility/deterrence questions or issues associated with your disability claim.
You Will Be Scheduled for a Compensation and Pension Examination
The VBPCC will schedule an examination with a VA doctor to assess your disability. If you have an existing diagnosis that is being verified, the doctor will re-examine you and conduct any necessary tests.
If You Are Disabled, VA Will Assign You a Percentage Rating
VA will assign you a percentage rating if you are disabled due to your service. This rating is used to determine your monthly benefit amount. If you are approved for benefits, the VBPCC will send notice via U.S. Mail with the percentage rating and instructions on applying for an increase in benefits by filing an appeal with VA within one year.
You Will Be Scheduled For an Appeal Hearing
The VBPCC will schedule your C&P hearing at least 60 days after the time limit for filing an appeal pass’s expiration date, i.e., 120 days from the date of award of disability compensation.
You may request an extension to appeal your claim by submitting a written request to the VBPCC. If you are approved for benefits, you are notified with details about how to apply for an increase in benefits.
You Will Receive a Decision and Benefits
If you are approved for benefits due to your disability claim, your VA disability claim will be decided by a VA Appeals Board. Suppose you are eligible for an increase in benefits.
In that case, the VAB will inform you via U.S. Mail with instructions on how to apply for an increase in benefits through VA’s P&P program or their other appeals process, such as the Veterans’ Judicial Review Board (VJRB). Your decision and the outcome may take anywhere from four weeks to six months.
Claimants Notified of Benefits or Rating Changes
If you are approved for benefits, the VBPCC will notify you of your VA disability benefits rating within 60 days of completing your C&P exam and awarding your claim decision.
Claimant Notified of C&P Exam Results
If you are awarded disability compensation, the rating that the VA used to determine your benefits and payment amount will be posted on a VA web page and in future correspondence. The rating that VA uses to determine your benefits is public information and can be viewed by anyone.
Contact a VA Disability Benefits Attorney
The process of filing a VA disability claim can be overwhelming. Remember that you have dedicated VA caseworkers and VBA employees working on your disability claim. These individuals are specifically trained to help you through the entire process.
Keep in mind that the time it takes to process your claim varies based on the individual circumstances of each claim and any evidence required to support your case. Seeking legal support from a VA disability benefits lawyer can simplify and speed up the process.
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