Our Veterans Service Officer can assist you with compiling the specific documents needed to file a claim.
After the claim is filed, here are the typical steps in the claims process:
Acknowledgement Letter from VA: This one page letter will advise you that the VA has received the claim and they are working on it. This letter “usually”
arrives within 60 days of initial filing of the claim.
Duty to Assist Packet: This packet will arrive in a big envelope. It contains several pages including blank forms. The Duty to Assist letter will
discuss what (if any) evidence the VA still needs from you. This is a very important part of the claim process. Most of this
letter is canned language and it will seem like the VA is asking for materials already provided. Don't worry- simply contact
your Service Officer the day you receive this packet.
Rating Decision: This is the VA decision on your claim. A rating decision can take up to a year and sometimes longer from the date of the
initial filing. Please be patient and adhere to the guidance of your Veteran Service Officer.
CALL YOUR SERVICE OFFICER THE SAME DAY YOU RECEIVE THE DECISION.
We will get a copy sent to us, but it usually arrives weeks or even months after you get it.
Filing an Appeal: If you disagree with any aspect of this decision, make notes and show your service officer. A veteran can file an appeal of a rating decision within one year from the date of the rating decision. It is important to note you cannot win an appeal simply because you don’t like the VA decision. You have to appeal an actual
error with the VA decision. Your veteran service officer can discuss the appeal process with you.
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