SERVING

Those That

SERVED

Compensation Tips

All Tips Submitted By Veterans

TIP:   If you are a combat veteran, a veteran during war time, or served in any capacity where you experienced a stressful military events (e.g., physical or psychological trauma), you may find the following examples of evidence helpful in supporting your claim, especially a claim for PTSD, TBI or Anxiety:

   

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

 

  • Air Force Cross
  • Air Medal with “V” Device
  • Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device
  • Bronze Star with “V” Device
  • Combat Action Ribbon
  • Combat Infantry Badge
  • Distinguished Flying Cross
  • Distinguished Service Cross
  • Joint Service Commendation Medal with “V” Device
  • Medal of Honor
  • Navy Commendation Medal with “V” Device
  • Navy Cross
  • Parachutist Badge with Bronze Star
  • Prisoner of War Medal
  • Purple Heart
  • Silver Star

   

TIP:  Make sure you get a copy of your C & P exam.  Compare the examiner’s notes with your own.  Look for discrepancies in what the examiner documented and what you documented.  Also, if the examiner used any instruments, make sure it is documented accurately in the C & P exam notes.  For example, one veteran reported that the C & P examiner documented that he used several instruments to assess the veteran’s back pain.  In reality, the examiner never used a single instrument, but documented that he did.  Pencil-whipping C & P examination notes seems to be more prevalent than many realize.  In such instances, the veteran may have a case to expunge the exam as weighted evidence if it’s not in his/her favor.  Also, the veteran can certainly submit rebuttal evidence from other medical sources.  Keep in mind, ALL examinations are subjective exercises processed through individual mental filters.  Not all medical professionals will see the same thing the same way.

     

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

   

     

TIP:  Decide what organization you will work with.  It is very important that you decide if you’re going to reach out to a veterans organization who specializes in submitting disability claims for veterans, or if you will make it a do it yourself (DIY) project.  Once you decide, stick with your plan.

      

TIP:  Important that you select what disability or disabilities you will submit to VA.  Make sure you go over your service-connected records in great detail; with a fine-tooth comb.  Sometime it can take hours to go through your records, and other times, it will take days.  Sometimes, having a spouse or friend help you can be extremely beneficial.  Deciphering old medical records may seem like a daunting task, and it can be at times, but if you have someone with you to take up the burden you may find it more tolerable.  Connecting old war injuries or illnesses with current physical or mental problems is a crucial step on the road to a service-connection disability.