U.S. VA Disability Supplemental Claims Attorney

Skilled and Trusted VA Disability Supplemental Claims Attorney for U.S. Veterans

When a veteran files a claim for disability benefits with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), they may not always receive the desired outcome. However, veterans have the right to appeal these decisions if they believe that new evidence can strengthen their case. This is where supplemental claims come into play.

The Vet Law Office provides legal representation for veterans who need to respond to denied claims or address issues related to disability benefits. Mr. Farmer understands the ways these issues can affect veterans, since he is also a disabled veteran. He works to ensure that those who have served our country can receive the benefits that will allow them to address their health issues and meet their personal needs.

When Can a Veteran Appeal With New Evidence?

A veteran may choose to file a supplemental claim when they have obtained new and relevant evidence that was not previously considered by the VA in its initial decision. This evidence must be directly related to their claimed condition or conditions, and it should support the argument for an increased disability rating or service connection. In some cases, veterans may be able to show that they qualify for disability benefits because they have presumptive conditions that are now covered due to changes in the law. Presumptive conditions may include burn pit exposure, Agent Orange, and radiation exposure.

New evidence can take various forms, including:

• Medical Records: Updated medical records from healthcare providers who have treated the veteran since their initial claim was denied.
• Buddy Statements: Sworn statements, known as Statements in Support of Claim, from others who served with a veteran, family members, or anyone else who can provide information about how the claimed condition has affected the veteran's daily life.
• Social Security Administration (SSA) Disability Determination: If the SSA has determined that the veteran is disabled due to similar conditions, this information can be used as supporting evidence for a VA disability claim.
• Nexus Letters: Opinions from medical professionals linking the current condition(s) to military service or establishing causation between an event during service and subsequent disabilities.

Filing a Supplemental Claim: What Should Be Included?

To file a successful supplemental claim, veterans need to ensure that all necessary documentation is included. The following elements are crucial when submitting new evidence:

1. VA Form 20-0995: This form, also known as the Supplemental Claim Application, must be completed and submitted to initiate the appeal process. It is essential to provide accurate information about the veteran's personal details, claimed conditions, and any new evidence being submitted.
2. New and Relevant Evidence: As mentioned earlier, veterans should gather all relevant documentation supporting their claim that the VA has not previously considered. This may include updated medical records, buddy statements, SSA disability determination letters, or nexus letters.

A supplemental claim package can be submitted online or mailed to the VA. Veterans can also apply in person at a regional VA office.

The Review Process

A supplemental claim will go through a review process to determine if the new evidence warrants a change in the initial decision. The VA will assign a Veterans Service Representative (VSR) or Rating Veterans Service Representative (RVSR) to evaluate the claim.

The VSR/RVSR will:

1. Review the Claim: The assigned representative will carefully examine all submitted evidence, including any new documentation.
2. Request Exams or Opinions: If necessary, the VA may schedule additional medical examinations or seek expert opinions to assess the impact of the new evidence on a case.
3. Evaluate and Make a Decision: The VSR/RVSR will consider all available information and make a determination regarding a supplemental claim. They may grant an increased disability rating, establish service connection for previously denied conditions, or maintain their original decision if they find that the new evidence does not warrant changes.

Contact Our Experienced VA Disability Supplemental Claims Attorney

If you are considering filing a supplemental claim for your VA disability case, it is crucial to have experienced legal representation by your side. At The Vet Law Office, our attorney has extensive experience assisting veterans with appeals and ensuring that their rights are protected throughout the process. We understand how important these benefits are for you and your family's well-being.

To learn more about how we can help you navigate through this complex appeals process successfully, contact us at 1-800-700-4174 and schedule a consultation today. Let us help you fight for the benefits you deserve.