Revealing Secrets: A Current VA Rater’s Perspective

Revealing Secrets: An Ex-VA Rater's Perspective

Understanding Toxic Exposure Claims and the Importance of TERAs: An Insider’s Perspective

By Chris – Veteran, Former VSO, and Current VA Claims Rater

When the PACT Act passed on August 10, 2022, many veterans, especially those who served in wartime theaters, celebrated the new presumptives. In simple terms, a “presumptive” condition means the VA is acknowledging a nexus—a medical link—between your service and certain medical conditions. If you can prove you served in a qualifying location and you have a related condition, the VA assumes it’s connected to your service. That means you don’t need a medical opinion to support your claim—it’s basically a rubber stamp process.

What many veterans didn’t realize is that the PACT Act also opened the door for claims from those who didn’t serve in combat zones. If you’re one of these veterans, you can still file for conditions potentially related to toxic exposure. The process is a bit more complex, but here’s how it works from an insider’s point of view—mine.

The Power of the TERA Memorandum

If you’re filing a claim and believe your duties exposed you to hazardous substances—such as asbestos, jet fuels, solvents, or cleaning agents—be explicit. Go to the VA’s Military Exposure website and research what exposures are listed for your MOS or job role. Then, when you file your claim using VA Form 21-526EZ or appeal with a VA Form 20-0995, include a lay statement that outlines:

Your specific MOS or job duties
The substances you were exposed to (e.g., lead, jet fuel, PAHs, etc.)
How your tasks exposed you to those substances

Previously, VA raters were restricted from forming internal memos based on MOS alone. But now, if your duties relate to known exposures, we are encouraged to issue what’s called a “TERA” (Toxic Exposure Risk Activity) memorandum. This internal document guides contract examiners to explore potential medical connections to your claimed conditions.

Be Detailed and Specific

General statements like “I was in the Air Force and exposed to fuel” won’t cut it. You need to get specific. Spell out the tasks and the environment. Use supporting documents from VA resources. That gives raters like me what we need to evaluate your claim thoroughly.

Claims without enough detail may be denied—or worse, older claims might have their TERA status overturned if they were too vaguely based on MOS. But now, the system allows veterans to strengthen claims with specifics, especially if the exposure was well-documented through your service duties.

Understanding the Burden of Proof

The legal standard for VA benefits is “at least as likely as not.” That means the evidence for and against must be balanced. Some contract examiners push borderline studies as rationale, but that’s not always enough. For example, if you have coronary artery disease and were exposed to asbestos in the Navy, a high-probability M21 table listing helps—but other risk factors (smoking, family history, obesity) could still outweigh your service exposure in the examiner’s eyes.

Some VA contractors err on the side of the veteran. Others are stricter. That’s why you must build the best possible case: list exposures, explain your duties, and back it up with studies or statements. Don’t rely on just one weak link—connect the dots thoroughly.

Conditions That Don’t Qualify for TERAs

There’s also a TERA Exception Job Aid that outlines conditions which are excluded from TERA-based consideration. These include mental health and most musculoskeletal disorders. So, if your claim involves PTSD or back pain, you likely won’t receive a TERA memo—even if you were exposed to toxins. That said, respiratory, cardiac, organ-related issues, strokes, hypertension, and cancers may qualify.

Secondary Conditions and Smart Filing

Secondary claims are gaining more ground. For example, if you have a service-connected condition like PTSD and also suffer from sleep apnea, there’s growing support for linking the two. While some examiners reject this connection, others accept it, especially when studies suggest a link between trauma, stress, and obstructive sleep apnea. The same applies for asthma and other conditions.

Sleep apnea tied to another condition like PTSD or asthma can bring a 50% rating with CPAP usage. That’s a significant rating. Be strategic. Know how your conditions interrelate, and gather the documentation and research to support your case.

Final Thoughts

If you served between Vietnam and the Gulf War, especially in the 80s, and were exposed to environmental hazards—even without being in a wartime theater—do your research. File your claims with intention and detail. Use the VA’s own resources to bolster your case. And if you need to appeal based on a TERA or denial without one, consider doing so armed with all the right information.

TERA memorandums are more important now than ever. This is one of the most important “secret sauces” I can share. Use it. File strong claims. And good luck to you, brother or sister in arms.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is opinion-based and reflects the personal experiences and insights of the author, who is a veteran and former VA claims rater. It does not represent official policy or guidance from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

April 2025 Veterans (VA) Disability Increase: Who is eligible and when will payments come?

2025 VA Disability Payment Schedule

If you receive Department of Veterans Affairs disability payments, then for 2025, you received a 2.5% raise in your benefits.

EXAMPLE:

2025 VA COLA Increase for a Single Veteran With No Dependents

The 2025 pay rates in this chart—including the changes in compensation over the years, for comparison—are for a single veteran with no dependents based on the 2.5% cost of living adjustment.

Combined VA Rating	2025 VA Disability Pay Rates	2024 VA Compensation Rates	2023 Compensation Rates
10%	$175.51	$171.23	$165.92
20%	$346.95	$338.49	$327.99
30%	$537.42	$524.31	$508.05
40%	$774.16	$755.28	$731.86
50%	$1,102.04	$1,075.16	$1,041.82
60%	$1,395.93	$1,361.88	$1,319.65
70%	$1,759.19	$1,716.27	$1,663.06
80%	$2,044.89	$1,995.01	$1,933.15
90%	$2,297.96	$2,241.91	$2,172.39
100%	$3,831.30	$3,737.85	$3,621.95

But what are the dates you’ll receive those monthly checks? Disability benefit payments for a particular month are paid on the first business day of the following month. When the first day of that month falls on a non-business day or a holiday, VA benefits will be paid on the last business day of the preceding month. Here is the VA disability payment schedule for 2025 to help you plan your finances.

2025 VA Disability Payment Schedule

The following are the payment dates for VA disability benefits in 2025:

January 2025 – January 2
February 2025 – February 3
March 2025 – March 3
April 2025 – April 1
May 2025 – May 1
June 2025 – June 2
July 2025 – July 1
August 2025 – August 1
September 2025 – September 2
October 2025 – October 1
November 2025 – November 3
December 2025 – December 1

What are the Monthly VA Payment Benefits?

VA Disability Pay or Disability Compensation is a tax-free monthly payment given to veterans with a service-related disability and an “other than dishonorable” discharge. Eligible veterans may qualify for a tax-free, monthly benefit ranging from $165 to over $3,600. Learn more about applying for VA disability pay and benefits.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monthly benefit for some surviving family members of veterans. It is paid to eligible survivors of a military member who died while on active duty, a veteran whose death was the result of a service-connected injury or disease, or a veteran whose death wasn’t related to their service but who was rated as permanently and totally disabled by VA. Learn more about DIC payments.

Veterans and Survivors Pension Compensation

The Veterans and Survivors Pension compensations are paid to eligible low-income veterans or their surviving family members. Learn more about the veterans pension and the survivors pension.

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is a tax-free monthly payment given in addition to VA disability pay to eligible veterans who suffered the loss of or loss of use of specific organs or extremities due to service. Read more about Special Monthly Compensation.

Aid and Attendance and Housebound Benefits

Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits are tax-free benefits paid in addition to monthly VA disability to cover the cost of in-house care, nursing home care, and assisted living. Read more about Aid and Attendance and Housebound Benefits.

Stay on Top of Your Veteran Benefits

Military benefits are always changing. Keep up with everything from pay to health care by subscribing to Military.com, and get access to up-to-date pay charts and more with the latest benefits delivered straight to your inbox.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, financial, or medical advice. Please consult with the appropriate professionals for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. VeteransBenefitsHub.com is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs and does not provide official VA services or guarantees. The payment schedule may vary depending on individual circumstances, and we encourage you to check the official VA website or contact the VA directly for confirmation.

TO WIN YOUR Social Security Disability Claim Using 100% VA Disability Rating the Truth Be Told!

When it comes to disability benefits, many veterans are surprised by how differently the VA and the Social Security Administration (SSA) handle claims. While the Department of Veterans Affairs allows for more flexibility, especially when it comes to working while receiving benefits, Social Security has stricter guidelines. Understanding these key differences can make or break your claim.

Yes, You Can Work and Still Receive VA Disability

One of the most common misconceptions is that you can’t work while receiving VA disability. That’s not true. In fact, you can hold a job and still receive a 50% rating, or even a 100% VA disability rating, without issue. Many veterans do it every day.

On the other hand, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) operates differently. With Social Security, it’s more black and white — either you’re fully disabled and unable to work, or you’re not. There’s no in-between.

Social Impairments: A Major Difference

If your VA claim included social impairments (such as difficulty interacting with others, isolating behaviors, etc.), keep in mind that Social Security may not even consider these factors. That’s because social impairments are not recognized in the same way by SSA when determining disability.

So, if you’re applying for SSDI, it’s important to adjust your strategy. You can’t simply submit the same materials you used for your VA claim and expect the same outcome.

Know the Listings: SSA’s Blue Book

The Social Security Administration maintains a comprehensive Listing of Impairments—commonly referred to as the Blue Book. Many conditions listed there may also be compensable through the VA. However, before you submit an SSDI claim, make sure the disability you’re filing for is specifically recognized in the SSA’s Blue Book.

This is one of the most important steps in preparing your claim. The SSA is very structured in what they accept and how they evaluate it.

Time Requirements: VA vs. SSA

Another key difference is how long your condition has lasted—or is expected to last.

For SSA:

To qualify, you must meet at least one of these conditions:

The condition is expected to result in death;
The condition has lasted for at least 12 months;
The condition is expected to last at least 12 months.

For VA:

There’s more flexibility. While a current diagnosis (usually within 6 to 12 months) is often required, you can file for secondary claims decades after discharge and still win. The VA is not bound by the same rigid time frames.

What About Medical Evidence?

Both VA and SSA want to see current medical records, diagnoses, and symptoms. But here’s the crucial difference:

The VA looks at how much your service-connected condition affects your daily life, whether or not you can still work.
SSA focuses exclusively on whether your condition prevents you from working at all.

SSA is looking for absolute incapacity to perform any work, not just a reduced ability.

Should You Use a Vocational Expert?

Yes, absolutely—especially if you’re filing for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) or SSDI. Vocational experts specialize in evaluating your ability to work based on your condition, job market factors, and federal labor standards.

In VA claims, vocational experts are rarely involved. But on the Social Security side, vocational experts can play a critical role, especially if your claim goes to a hearing. In many cases, the vocational expert is sitting right next to the judge during your SSDI hearing, providing testimony about your ability—or inability—to work.

Pro tip: Get a vocational expert involved early in your SSDI claim to strengthen your case and avoid unnecessary denials.

Final Thoughts

Some veterans are able to use the same medical evidence from their VA claims to win SSDI cases. But in many instances, you’ll need a more tailored approach. Understanding these distinctions—and preparing accordingly—can give you the edge you need when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance.

⚠️ Disclaimer

VeteransBenefitsHub.com is an informational resource created to assist veterans and their families. We are not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Social Security Administration (SSA). This article is not intended as legal or medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional or accredited representative for assistance with your specific claim.

VA Disability Compensation: HUGE RETROACTIVE PAY APPROVED to DATE of DISCHARGE

The Oath Act and the landmark case Taylor v. McDonough have significantly impacted veterans’ benefits, shaping the way disability claims and benefits are processed. Veterans seeking to understand these changes should be aware of their rights and how these legal precedents affect them.

The Oath Act: A Commitment to Veterans

The Oath Act (Observing, Assisting, and Treating Heroes Act) was enacted to streamline and improve access to VA healthcare services for veterans. Its key provisions include:

Enhanced medical access: Expanding telehealth services and increasing healthcare facilities in underserved areas.
Faster claims processing: Reducing bureaucratic delays that often hinder veterans from receiving timely benefits.
Comprehensive mental health support: Ensuring that veterans suffering from PTSD, depression, and other service-related mental health conditions receive proper care.
Support for caregivers: Strengthening benefits for those who provide care to disabled veterans.

Taylor v. McDonough: A Game-Changer for Veterans’ Appeals

The Taylor v. McDonough case was a pivotal moment in veterans’ law. This case addressed effective dates for VA disability claims, ensuring that veterans who were previously denied benefits due to administrative technicalities could have their claims reconsidered.

Key Takeaways from the Case:

Retroactive Benefits: Veterans whose claims were wrongly denied may now be eligible for retroactive compensation.
Fairer Appeals Process: The ruling emphasized the need for the VA to apply consistent and just standards in disability claim evaluations.
Stronger Legal Precedents: It reinforced veterans’ rights when challenging VA decisions, making it easier for them to appeal unjust denials.

What This Means for Veterans

If you are a veteran affected by the Oath Act or believe your claim falls under the Taylor v. McDonough ruling, you should take the following steps:

Review Your Claim – Check your VA claim status and assess whether the new laws or rulings impact your benefits.
File an Appeal – If you were previously denied benefits, consult a VA-accredited attorney or advocate to help with the appeals process.
Utilize VA Resources – The VA’s official website (VA.gov) offers resources, claim filing options, and legal assistance.
Seek Legal Assistance – Organizations like the Veterans Legal Services Clinic and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) can provide guidance on your rights.

Helpful VA Links

VA Disability Compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability/
VA Appeals Process: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/
VA Accredited Representatives: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp

Final Thoughts

The Oath Act and Taylor v. McDonough have strengthened veterans’ access to benefits and healthcare. By staying informed and utilizing the available resources, veterans can ensure they receive the support they deserve.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Veterans should consult a VA-accredited representative or attorney for specific legal guidance on their claims.

How to Prove a VA PTSD Claim – Insights from a Former VA Rating Specialist

Interviewer: Let’s talk about Military Sexual Trauma (MST) claims. For combat-related PTSD, you need three key things: symptoms, a diagnosis from the VA, and a clear nexus to a combat situation, which is often shown on your DD214. How does that process work for MST claims?

Former VA Rating Specialist: That’s a great question. First, it’s important to understand that combat-related PTSD claims are sometimes easier to prove if you have something like a Combat Action Badge or Combat Action Ribbon. These awards automatically concede that you were exposed to a stressor, so you don’t need to provide additional evidence that you were in a dangerous situation—just having the award itself serves as proof of the stressor.

Now, MST claims work differently because they’re often underreported and not well-documented. MST is highly personal and difficult for many veterans to talk about, which makes it challenging to gather direct evidence. That’s why the VA looks for “markers” when evaluating MST claims.

What Are Markers in an MST Claim?

Interviewer: Can you explain what markers are and how they help support an MST claim?

Former VA Rating Specialist: Sure. Since MST incidents are frequently not officially reported, the VA relies on indirect signs—or markers—to help establish that the event likely happened. Markers are behavioral or medical changes that suggest a traumatic event occurred. Here are some common examples:

Medical records: If you sought medical attention for a sexually transmitted disease (STD) shortly after the incident, that could be considered a marker.
Performance decline: If you had a strong service record but your performance ratings suddenly dropped after the event, that’s a red flag.
Requests for transfers: If you asked to be reassigned after the event, that’s another possible indicator.
Behavioral changes: Increased substance abuse, disciplinary issues, or mental health problems appearing after the incident can also serve as markers.
Relationship issues: Trouble maintaining personal or professional relationships can be viewed as evidence of emotional or psychological trauma.

The VA will examine these markers to determine whether it’s at least as likely as not that the claimed MST event occurred during your service.

My Personal Experience with Markers

Interviewer: So the VA examiner is looking at the whole picture—performance records, medical reports, behavioral changes—to establish that the trauma occurred?

Former VA Rating Specialist: Exactly. For example, after Desert Storm, I personally experienced a sharp decline in my performance. I went from being a solid performer to struggling, failing inspections, and eventually receiving a general discharge. That kind of downward spiral is a textbook marker. It signaled to the VA that something significant had happened to me during my service.

Current Symptoms Matter Too

Interviewer: So the markers help establish that the traumatic event happened, but what about the symptoms veterans are experiencing today?

Former VA Rating Specialist: That’s an important distinction. The markers help prove that the trauma occurred, but to get a successful MST-related PTSD claim approved, you also need to show that you’re currently experiencing symptoms linked to that trauma. That’s where the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) comes in. The doctor will focus on your current mental health symptoms—like social and occupational impairments—and document them properly in the DBQ.

Think of it this way:

Markers = Evidence that the traumatic event happened.
Current Symptoms = Proof that the trauma is still affecting you today.

Markers Are Unique to MST Claims

Interviewer: Are markers used in other types of PTSD claims?

Former VA Rating Specialist: No, that’s a key point. Markers are only used in MST-related PTSD claims. For combat-related PTSD, you need direct proof of a stressor, such as a combat action badge or documentation of an injury. Markers are specific to MST because of the underreporting issue.

Building a Strong MST Claim

Interviewer: What advice would you give to veterans filing an MST claim?

Former VA Rating Specialist: First, request a copy of your VA claims file (C-File). Go through your medical and service records to identify any potential markers. If you notice a decline in performance, disciplinary actions, medical visits, or mental health consultations after the incident, those can strengthen your case.

Second, be thorough and honest when discussing your symptoms with your doctor. It’s crucial that the symptoms are properly documented in the DBQ to connect them to the MST event.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek support from a Veterans Service Organization (VSO). They can help you navigate the process and ensure your claim is properly prepared.

Interviewer: That’s incredibly helpful advice. Thanks for sharing your insights and personal experience—it’ll make a real difference for veterans filing MST claims.

Former VA Rating Specialist: Anytime. Veterans need to know that they’re not alone and that there’s help available.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are based on the personal experiences and professional insights of the former VA Rating Specialist interviewed. They do not reflect the official policies or positions of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or any other government agency. This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Veterans are encouraged to consult with a qualified Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or legal professional for guidance on filing MST claims or addressing any related concerns.

VA Disability 2025 Pay Chart: Veterans Affairs Amount, Eligibility & Payment Dates

VA-Disability-Pay-Chart 2025

Veterans who depend on disability benefits should keep up with the VA Disability 2025 Pay Chart’s upcoming modifications. Veterans should expect a 2.63% increase in their monthly benefits as of December 1, 2024, as a result of the most recent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

Official statistics are expected to be released in October 2024, but the SSA first predicted this increase in the month of July 2024. The purpose of this 2.63% increase is to help veterans maintain purchasing power in their benefits by keeping up with inflation.

VA Disability Compensation

A tax-free monthly payment known as VA disability compensation is provided to veterans who suffered diseases or injuries while in the military. It also covers conditions that got worse due to service or problems developed later that are related to military duty.

The VA Disability Rating System, which goes from 0% to 100% and increases in 10% steps, determines the payment amounts. The level of the handicap and medical records are used to determine ratings. Veterans with multiple disabilities use a combined rating approach to calculate their overall rating and related benefit.

VA Disability Compensation Details

Authority: Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Program: VA Disability Compensation
Country: USA
Amount: Varies (Based on disability rating)
Payment Date: Update Soon
Category: Government Aid
Official Website: https://www.va.gov/

VA Disability Pay Chart 2025

The increase in COLA of 2.63% shows up in the VA Disability Pay Chart for 2025. Veterans with a 100% disability rating and their dependents (spouse and child, for example) will start receiving $4,206.67 per month on December 1, 2024.

In comparison, a veteran with a 10% disability rating will receive $175.73 monthly. Veterans can calculate their expected monthly compensation based on the new rates by using the pay chart, which takes into account various disability ratings and dependent circumstances.

VA Disability Without Children

Dependent Status	30% Disability Rating	40% Disability Rating	50% Disability Rating	60% Disability Rating
Veteran alone	524.31	755.28	1,075.16	1,361.88
With spouse	586.31	838.28	1,179.16	1,486.88
With spouse and 1 parent	636.31	904.28	1,262.16	1,586.88
With spouse and 2 parents	686.31	970.28	1,345.16	1,686.88
With 1 parent	574.31	821.28	1,158.16	1,461.88
With 2 parents	624.31	887.28	1,241.16	1,561.88

VA Disability Pay Increase

The COLA adjustment, which determines the VA disability pay increase in 2025, makes sure that veterans’ benefits keep up with the growing cost of living. Because it keeps inflation from reducing veterans’ compensation, this adjustment is crucial to protecting their financial security.

To make the most of the resources available, veterans and their families should stay informed about these changes and seek advice from experts, such as certified attorneys or Veterans Services Officers (VSOs), to understand how the new rates impact their benefits.

FAQs

How does the VA decide my disability rating?
They look at your medical records and how serious your condition is to give you a rating from 0% to 100%.
When will the new pay rates take effect?
The new rates, reflecting a 2.63% increase, will take effect on December 1, 2024.
Do payments change based on dependents?
Yes, payments can increase based on the number of dependents, such as a spouse or children.

Soruce: VA.GOV

Veterans’ Medical and Health Records: Filing a Claim for Medical Benefits

The Official Military Personnel Files (OMPF), housed at the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC), are administrative records that contain details about an individual’s military service history. While many OMPFs used to include both personnel and active-duty health records, this practice was discontinued in the 1990s by the various military branches.

In the past, all military services transferred a service member’s individual health records to the NPRC upon separation from service, along with the personnel records. The Army and Air Force retired health records with the OMPF, while the Department of the Navy (including the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) sent these files separately to the NPRC until the 1980s.

Health records document outpatient, dental, and mental health treatment received during military service. They include induction and separation physical exams, routine medical care (such as doctor visits, lab tests, dental check-ups), but not inpatient records.

Clinical (hospital inpatient) records, which are created during hospital stays, are typically not filed with health records. Instead, they are retired to the NPRC by the facility that generated them. Medical records from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are also not part of these files.

Changes in Record Handling

Starting in the 1990s, the military branches stopped including health records with the personnel portion of the OMPF sent to NPRC. The Army began sending most health records to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in 1992, with other services following suit by 1998. By 2014, the practice of transferring these records to the VA was discontinued. To find out where your medical record is located, refer to the chart below:

Branch	Status	Date	Record Location
Army	Discharged, retired, or separated from any component	10/16/1992 to 12/31/2013	Department of VA, Records Management Center
		on or after 01/01/2014	AMEDD Record Processing Center
Navy	Discharged, retired, or separated from any component	01/31/1994 to 12/31/2013	Department of VA, Records Management Center
		on or after 01/01/2014	BUMED Navy Medicine Records Activity
Air Force	Discharged, retired, or separated from any component	05/01/1994 to 12/31/2013	Department of VA, Records Management Center
		on or after 01/01/2014	AF STR Processing Center
	Discharged or retired from Reserves or National Guard	06/01/1994 to 12/31/2013	Department of VA, Records Management Center
		on or after 01/01/2014	AF STR Processing Center
Marine Corps	Discharged, retired, or separated from any component	05/01/1994 to 12/31/2013	Department of VA, Records Management Center
		on or after 01/01/2014	BUMED Navy Medicine Records Activity
Coast Guard	Discharged, retired, or separated from Active Duty	04/01/1998 to 09/30/2014	Department of VA, Records Management Center
	Reservists with 90 days active duty for training	On or after 10/01/2014	USCG HSWL SC Medical Administration

VA Records Center and Vault

Secure, Reliable, Responsive Records Storage and Management Services

VA Records Center and Vault (RCV) provides short- and long-term records storage and records management services for VA and other Federal government agency customers. Located in a subterranean, climate-controlled facility, RC&V provides storage for general, vital, and unscheduled records as well as records held pending litigation freezes. We are committed to providing our customers with the most secure, reliable, and responsible records storage services available at competitive rates.

Fast, Personalized Service

Storing critical records and being able to quickly retrieve them can be burdensome and costly. We understand the importance on providing timely and accurate retrieval of records. Documents stored at the RC&V can be in your hands next business day, or faxed to you within hours. At the RCV, we customize our service to meet your security and access needs.

VA Records Center and Vault Source: https://www.rcv.va.gov/

Filing a Claim for Medical Benefits

Veterans intending to file a medical benefits claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) do not need to request their military health records from the NPRC. Once a claim is filed, the VA will obtain the original health record from the NPRC. Additionally, many health records were transferred to the VA prior to the 1973 Fire at the NPRC.

Veterans who have already filed a medical claim should contact the VA to verify if their records are on file. For assistance, veterans can contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000, which will connect them to the nearest VA office.

This information ensures veterans have access to the correct channels to retrieve their records and file claims for medical benefits.

Source: Archives.gov

Free Laptops for Disabled Veterans

Free Laptops or Computers to Disabled Veterans

Latest U.S. Government Programs Providing Free Laptops or Computers to Disabled Veterans for Vocational Rehabilitation

The U.S. government continues to support disabled veterans through a variety of programs aimed at enhancing their quality of life, especially when it comes to vocational rehabilitation. One significant area of support involves providing free laptops or computers to help disabled veterans acquire new skills, pursue education, and re-enter the workforce. Below is an overview of some of the key programs available as of 2024:

1. Veterans Affairs (VA) Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program

The VA’s VR&E program, often referred to as Chapter 31, offers comprehensive support to disabled veterans seeking employment. A crucial part of this support includes providing necessary technology, such as laptops or computers, to veterans enrolled in vocational training, education programs, or job search activities. This technology is essential for veterans to complete online coursework, develop new skills, and access employment resources.

Eligible veterans can apply for VR&E services through the VA, where a vocational rehabilitation counselor will assess their needs and determine the appropriate equipment to support their goals. The program covers the cost of the technology, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder veterans’ progress.

2. Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP)

The Department of Defense’s CAP initiative also plays a significant role in assisting veterans with disabilities. While CAP primarily focuses on federal employees and active-duty service members, it extends its services to disabled veterans participating in the VA’s vocational rehabilitation programs. CAP provides assistive technology, including laptops and specialized software, tailored to the specific needs of the veteran. This ensures that veterans with disabilities can fully participate in educational and vocational activities.

3. National Cristina Foundation

While not a government program, the National Cristina Foundation is a notable non-profit organization that collaborates with government agencies to provide refurbished computers to veterans and other individuals with disabilities. The foundation’s mission is to promote technology reuse and extend the life cycle of computers, benefiting those in need. Disabled veterans who may not qualify for other government programs can turn to the National Cristina Foundation for assistance in obtaining a laptop or computer for vocational training or education.

4. Local and State-Level Initiatives

In addition to federal programs, many states offer their own initiatives to support disabled veterans. These programs often provide grants or direct assistance to veterans needing laptops or computers for vocational purposes. For instance, some states have partnerships with local businesses and non-profits to distribute technology to veterans enrolled in vocational rehabilitation. Veterans are encouraged to explore these opportunities through their state veterans affairs offices.

Conclusion

The availability of free laptops and computers for disabled veterans through these programs underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life. These initiatives ensure that veterans have the tools they need to succeed in their educational and vocational pursuits, ultimately leading to greater independence and employment opportunities.

For veterans interested in accessing these benefits, it is advisable to contact their local VA office or vocational rehabilitation counselor to begin the application process.