The Service Connection – April 2019
Posted by
Berry Law
on
April 17, 2019 in
The Service Connection
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Increasing Your VA Disability Rating
At some point, you will likely need to return to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to increase your VA disability rating. Many times your rating is too low from the start. Also, your condition will probably worsen over time, either because it is a degenerative illness, or simply due to age or a secondary illness.
A disabled veteran who is receiving benefits may ask the VA for a review of their disability rating at any time. However, te timing of the request is important.
If it has been more than a year since the VA has granted disability benefits, the veteran may make a standard request for reevaluation. The veteran can make the request with a single form authorizing the VA to obtain the vet’s medical records, either:
- Form 21-526EZ filed by a Veteran treated by a VA or military health care facility
- Form 21-4142 filed by a Veteran treated by a civilian doctor
If it has been less than a year since the VA has granted disability benefits, the request for a new disability rating becomes an appeal of your claim, which is a much more complex process.
The VA must consider medical records from a VA or military hospital that reflect treatment or hospitalization, or records from private or public medical facilities to be valid evidence if they indicate that the veteran’s condition has grown worse.
However, if the VA directs you to undergo a C&P medical exam, you must submit to it or all progress with your claim will come to a halt.
 April’s Featured Content
Featured Video: Which Mental Health Disorders are Eligible for VA Compensation?
View Here
Featured Blog: Common Reasons Why the VA Denies Claims
Read Here
Please email veterans@jsberrylaw.com
or call (888) 883-2483 when you receive a decision from the VA.
April – Month of the Military Child
April 5 – Gold Star Spouses Day
April 9 – National Former POW Recognition Day
April 14 – Air Force Reserve Birthday
April 21 – Easter
April 23 – Army Reserve Birthday
April 30 – National Military Brats Day
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Send a request to marketing@jsberrylaw.com to receive your free copy of The Next Battle by John S. Berry.
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If you know a Veteran who needs our help,
please let him or her know about our services.
