VETERANS CORNER: I have questions that require answering

Veterans Affairs Regional Benefit Office Togus, ME

by Gary Kennedy

I have several questions that require answering as they have been asked more than once. Several veterans that I have been working with have received what they call unfavorable results, which is not entirely true. Because you didn’t get a percentage first time out doesn’t mean you failed. An example would be “hearing loss” which came back at zero percent. So, what exactly does that mean? It means the V.A. has recognized a service connected condition but does not provide monthly monetary payment for it, as it doesn’t meet the criteria for financial compensation. However, a zero percent rating is still beneficial, granting access to free V.A. healthcare and prescriptions for that specific condition. Also, it allows for the veteran to receive preference in referral hiring and use of commissaries. Veteran can file again if it is believed that the condition has worsened, or claim it as a secondary condition. Monitor your condition and when you feel it has become worse that is the time to file for an increase. You should present support information at this time, VA assists, and doctor’s reports both VA and civilian. I find with time these cases always win. In the mean time have your advocate go through your records for any other medical issues that might benefit you and yours.

Another issue which seems to be misunderstood is the application of the bilateral factor to a problem. Paired systems, left and right arm or leg, muscle/nerve groups when subjected to the bilateral factor almost always benefits the veteran. The only time it has put out an alarm is when the veterans issue is nearing 100 percent. This is a time for pause as it could go over and actually bring the percentage down to say 90 percent, not good. So, in 2023 this problem was addressed by VA and when the bilateral is being applied, where it could be counter productive it was eliminated thus allowing the percentage to follow it’s natural path. The math can be tricky for the lay person. Basically you add the two percentages together after doing the VA math then you add 10 percent for the bilateral factor. There are some of us who still believe that one and one still makes two, but that is not the way VA math works.

Last for this week is the question, “is 100 percent the end of the line or is there possibly more to learn”? Well, your advocate should fill you in on the benefits of 100 percent as well as future possibilities if needed. As I have stated several times in the past, you can now apply for ChampVA insurance for your dependents. This allows them around 75 percent medical coverage. Also, there will be an increase in your monthly check to a little over $4,000. Also, you receive an extra $136 for dependents. You will also be given a reduction in real state tax, excise tax, registration and plates are free, hunting and fishing is free as well as state and national parks for all family in your vehicle. Personalized license plates displaying, Disabled American Veteran. You can also access military base commissaries and stores.

The other part of this question was a monetary one and answer is “NO” unless you receive increases in your disability that can lead you to a Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). This is another entirely different area of disability and one that is difficult to navigate. However, for those of you with the question I will cover it in a future issue. In the mean time I will just say if you become bed ridden/housebound then you probably can fit into the requirements that are necessary for SMC.

For now I will say, have a good life with who you are and what you have. I hope we have been able to help you along the way. God bless you and yours and God bless this great country which cares about you and I. Stay safe.