How Can I Get TDIU?
Posted on November 27, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Many veterans are unable to earn a living because of service-connected disabilities. Congress created a special benefit called TDIU to help these veterans live comfortably. Also known as Unemployability. TDIU pays the same monthly amount as a 100% Read More
What are Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules?
Posted on August 14, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Did you know Social Security has special disability rules if you are over age 55? Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules It is much easier for Social Security to approve your application for disability benefits if you are over age 55. Typically, for Read More
What are Social Security Over 50 Grid Rules?
Posted on August 14, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Did you know Social Security has special disability rules if you are over age 50? Social Security Disability Over 50 Grid Rules Generally, Social Security defines disability as having the inability to work. They look at your ability to go back Read More
VA Benefits Appeal
Posted on August 7, 2020 by Ken LaVan
VA Benefits Appeal. To win a VA disability claim, a veteran must prove all elements. Generally, VA will approve a VA benefits claim when a veteran proves the following: In-service event, disease or injury, Current disability, and Medical nexus Read More
VA Disability Remand
Posted on August 7, 2020 by Ken LaVan
VA Disability Remand. After a veteran applies for VA benefits, VA must decide to either Grant the claim, or Deny the claim. Following a VA decision, the veteran has the right to appeal. If the first appeal fails, a veteran can request review by Read More
Why Should I Hire a SSDI Disability Lawyer?
Posted on August 3, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Why Should I Hire a SSDI Disability Lawyer? Even if you are thinking about or have already filed, you should consider hiring a SSDI disability lawyer for help. Many people believe that applying for disability benefits is simple and fast. Read MoreHow Can I Get TDIU?
Posted on November 27, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Many veterans are unable to earn a living because of service-connected disabilities. Congress created a special benefit called TDIU to help these veterans live comfortably. Also known as Unemployability. TDIU pays the same monthly amount as a 100% Read MoreWhat are Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules?
Posted on August 14, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Did you know Social Security has special disability rules if you are over age 55? Social Security Over 55 Grid Rules It is much easier for Social Security to approve your application for disability benefits if you are over age 55. Typically, for Read MoreWhat are Social Security Over 50 Grid Rules?
Posted on August 14, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Did you know Social Security has special disability rules if you are over age 50? Social Security Disability Over 50 Grid Rules Generally, Social Security defines disability as having the inability to work. They look at your ability to go back Read MoreVA Benefits Appeal
Posted on August 7, 2020 by Ken LaVan
VA Benefits Appeal. To win a VA disability claim, a veteran must prove all elements. Generally, VA will approve a VA benefits claim when a veteran proves the following: In-service event, disease or injury, Current disability, and Medical nexus Read MoreVA Disability Remand
Posted on August 7, 2020 by Ken LaVan
VA Disability Remand. After a veteran applies for VA benefits, VA must decide to either Grant the claim, or Deny the claim. Following a VA decision, the veteran has the right to appeal. If the first appeal fails, a veteran can request review by Read MoreWhy Should I Hire a SSDI Disability Lawyer?
Posted on August 3, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Why Should I Hire a SSDI Disability Lawyer? Even if you are thinking about or have already filed, you should consider hiring a SSDI disability lawyer for help. Many people believe that applying for disability benefits is simple and fast. Read More
How Can I Check on My Disability Claim?
Posted on August 3, 2020 by Ken LaVan
How Can I Check on My Disability Claim? It takes Social Security time to process your disability application. There are several steps that Social Security takes before making a decision on your claim. Checking your Social Security application sta Read More
What is the SSDI Payment Schedule?
Posted on July 21, 2020 by Ken LaVan
The date that your disability check comes in can depend on the type of benefit you receive and your birthday. Social Security offers two types of disability benefits. Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI) are benefits available t Read More
Is Osteoporosis a Disability?
Posted on July 20, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to be porous and fragile. This can cause the bones to break easily. Osteoporosis happens when your bones become less able to make new bone as quickly as the old bone breaks down. Osteopo Read More
What is Considered a Disability?
Posted on July 16, 2020 by Ken LaVan
What is considered a disability? Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability as an individual: having a medical impairment or combination of impairments; the impairment prevents the person from working; and they cannot work for at least t Read More
What is a Residual Functional Capacity Form?
Posted on July 14, 2020 by Ken LaVan
What is a Residual Functional Capacity Form? A residual functional capacity (RFC) is defined as the most you can do despite your medical impairments. A Residual Functional Capacity can include both mental and physical limitations. Y Read More
What is the Appeals Modernization Act?
Posted on June 13, 2020 by Ken LaVan
What is the Appeals Modernization Act? The Appeals Modernization Act has reduced the average time to receive a VA disability decision. Older claims typically took 3-7 years to receive a decision. In order to address this issue, Congress passed the VA Read More
Should I Hire a VA Disability Lawyer?
Posted on June 12, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Should I Hire a VA Disability Lawyer? You should hire a VA disability lawyer. With a budget over $217 billion, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is one of the largest federal agencies. VA’s disability benefit program was intended t Read MoreWhat is the Difference Between SSI and SSDI?
Posted on June 5, 2020 by Ken LaVan
The difference between SSI and SSDI. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are both federal disability programs under the Social Security Administration (SSA). Both programs provide cash payments for Read More
VA Disability Compensation Rates 2020
Posted on May 25, 2020 by Ken LaVan
VA Disability Compensation Rates 2020 increased about 1.6% from 2019 rates. If the VA decides that a veteran’s disability is related to service, it must then assign a rating percentage. By law, VA may assign rating of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, Read More
VA 100 Percent Permanent and Total Disability Benefits
Posted on January 31, 2020 by Ken LaVan
VA will award VA 100 Percent Permanent & Total disability benefits if the following criteria are met: 1) The veteran has a disability rated at 100%, and 2) Medical evidence shows that this disability is not likely to improve during the veteran’ Read More
Yankee Station Agent Orange
Posted on January 31, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Yankee Station Agent Orange – Blue Water veterans can now get presumptive service connection. The Yankee Station Yankee Station was a fixed coordinate off the coast of Vietnam where U.S. Navy aircraft carriers and support ships loitered in open Read More
Can I Get TDIU for Blue Water Agent Orange?
Posted on January 26, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Starting, January 1, 2020, veterans can get TDIU for Blue Water Agent Orange Exposure. Blue Water update During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military used herbicides such as Agent Orange to clear trees and plants. Unfortunately, herbicide exposure Read More
Blue Water Navy News
Posted on January 24, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Blue Water Navy News regarding agent orange exposure. What is Blue Water Agent Orange? What is Blue Water Agent Orange? During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military used herbicides such as Agent Orange to clear trees and plants. The military spray Read MoreBlue Water Navy Veterans
Posted on January 21, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Blue Water Navy Veterans can now take advantage of the Agent Orange Act of 1991. Why is Agent Orange a Presumed VA Disability? During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military used herbicides such as Agent Orange to clear trees and plants. Due to the Read MoreBlue Water Veterans Get Agent Orange Benefits
Posted on January 21, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Blue Water Veterans get Agent Orange Benefits as of January 1, 2020, when the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019 took effect. What is Agent Orange? During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military used herbicides such as Agent Orange to clear tree Read More
Blue Water Agent Orange Update – 2020
Posted on January 20, 2020 by Ken LaVan
What is Blue Water and Why Does it Matter? Blue Water Agent Orange Update 2020. During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military used herbicides such as Agent Orange to clear trees and plants. Unfortunately, herbicide exposure has caused a myriad of h Read MoreCan I get VA 100% for Blue Water Exposure?
Posted on January 18, 2020 by Ken LaVan
Can I get VA 100% for Blue Water Exposure? Yes. Thanks to the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019 and the Agent Orange Act of 1991, certain diseases are presumed to be related to in-service exposure to herbicides (including Agent Orange). Ge Read More
How Are TBI and PTSD Rated Together?
Posted on January 15, 2020 by Ken LaVan
VA Compensation Ratings TBI and PTSD are frequently rated together. VA pays compensation to veterans for disabilities incurred in or aggravated during their active duty service. In short, there are 10 grades of VA disability compensation: 10%, 20%, 3 Read More
What are VA TBI Residuals?
Posted on January 15, 2020 by Ken LaVan
If you do not understand how VA rates or weighs TBI residuals this article will help. Are Your VA TBI Residuals Related to Service? Before VA will assign a rating for TBI, it must first determine whether it is related to service. The question i Read More
How Does VA Rate TBI?
Posted on January 13, 2020 by Ken LaVan
What is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)? Understanding the basics will help you learn how VA Rates TBI. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. According to the Department of Defense, more than 313,816 servic Read More
How to Win Your PTSD VA Disability Claim with a Nexus Letter
Posted on January 12, 2020 by Ken LaVan
VA Nexus Letter for PTSD. VA will pay disability compensation to a veteran if he proves his disability is related to military service. As part of the process, VA uses disability nexus letters to figure out whether a disability was caused or agg Read More
TBI C&P Exam
Posted on January 12, 2020 by Ken LaVan
TBI VA Disability Benefits Before we discuss the TBI C&P Exam, unless special rules apply, VA will deny service connection for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) unless the Veteran can prove a: Current diagnosis, In-service event, disease or inju Read MoreWhat is the Criteria for 70% TBI Disability Rating?
Posted on January 10, 2020 by Ken LaVan
What is the Criteria for 70% TBI Disability Rating? After VA grants service connection for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), VA must determine the correct rating percentage. As a result, the rating percentage determines how much money VA must pay t Read More
What is a VA Disability Nexus Letter for PTSD?
Posted on January 9, 2020 by Ken LaVan
What is a VA Disability Nexus Letter for PTSD? If you’re reading this, then you are probably familiar with the basics of a VA disability claim. Before we discuss what a medical nexus letter is lets review the basics. To win a VA disability cl Read More
Increase Your Rating from 70% to 100%
Posted on December 25, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Increase your Rating from 70% to 100%. If you already have a 70% rating, then you may already understand how VA ratings work. Therefore, you probably know that a 100% rating is the maximum allowed by law. If so, you are well aware that VA Read More
VA Sleep Apnea Eligibility
Posted on December 19, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Service Connection VA Disability Sleep Apnea Eligibility Criteria. The VA uses sleep apnea eligibility criteria to figure out the correct rating for a veteran’s disability. That goes for sleep apnea, PTSD, and any other disability. But Read More
Can I get VA 100% for PTSD due to MST?
Posted on December 18, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Can I get VA 100% for PTSD due to MST? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental disability triggered by a traumatic event. When the average person thinks of a traumatic military event, they often t Read More
Can I get VA 100% for Sleep Apnea?
Posted on December 17, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Sleep Apnea can have a severe impact on your life. Call Now for a FREE CASE REVIEW to see if you are eligible for VA 100% disability rating. Read MoreCan I get TDIU for PTSD?
Posted on December 16, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Can I get TDIU for PTSD? Yes! Learn how to get TDIU for PTSD and receive the most benefits you are entitled to receive. Read MoreVA Disability Rating for PTSD
Posted on December 14, 2019 by Ken LaVan
VA Disability Rating for PTSD. If you are service connected learn how you can increase your rating to 100%. Free Case Review. Read MoreVA Permanent and Total Disability (TDIU) for PTSD
Posted on December 14, 2019 by Ken LaVan
VA Permanent and Total Disability (TDIU) for PTSD. Let us help you receive the benefits you have earned. Read MoreWhat is VA Permanent and Total Disability?
Posted on December 7, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Types of VA Total and Permanent Disability What is VA Permanent and Total Disability? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers 2 disability benefit programs: 1) Compensation; and 2) Pension. Both disability programs provide monthly payments to Read More
How Can I Increase My VA Disability Rating?
Posted on December 5, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Increase your VA Disability Rating. Disability Help Group is here to answer your questions. Call 1-800-800-3332. Read MoreCan I Work and Get TDIU?
Posted on December 1, 2019 by Ken LaVan
Can I Work and Get TDIU? Many veterans are unable to support themselves because of service-connected disabilities. Congress decided to take care of these veterans with a special benefit called TDIU. Also known as Unemployability, TDIU pay Read More
Enzyme Found in Baker’s Yeast Could Help Treat Some Forms of Leukemia
Posted on January 19, 2017 by Ken LaVan
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that typically affects children under the age of five. The American Cancer Society estimates doctors will diagnose another 5,970 new cases this year, and 1,440 people will die from ALL. This type Read MoreCamp Lejeune Water Contamination is a Presumptive Service Connection
Posted on January 16, 2017 by Ken LaVan
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination is a Presumptive Service Connection. Veterans can claim certain illnesses they may have contracted in Camp Lejeune, even if they cannot connect the disability to the contaminated water. A Veteran may qualify by showin Read MoreWhat medical conditions are considered disabling?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: The SSA evaluates your medical condition by looking at the “Listing of Impairments” and/or assessing your work-related limitations. The “Listings” outline each major body system, and provide requirements necessary for proving disability. Read MoreMy disability claimwas denied. How do I file an appeal?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: The majority of initial claims are denied and sadly, most claimants become discouraged and do not appeal the VA’s decision. No special form is required to begin the appeal process. All that is needed initially is a written statement that you dis Read MoreWhere do I file my appeal?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Typically, you would file your appeal with the same office (VA Regional Office (RO) or medical facility) that issued the decision you are appealing because that is where your claims file is kept. However, if you have moved and your claims fil Read MoreWhat happens to an appeal if the claimant (veteran) dies before a decision is issued?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: According to the law, the death of an appellant generally ends the appellant’s appeal. So, if an appellant dies, the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) normally dismisses the appeal without issuing a decision. However, the rights of a d Read MoreWill I be asked to testify at my Social Security Disability hearing?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Typically, an administrative law judge (ALJ) will decide cases based on the medical evidence in the file – this includes x-rays and other imaging exams, lab panels, treatment notes, and written statements from the claimant and the claimant&# Read MoreWhat should I do to prepare for my Social Security Disability hearing?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: In most cases, the Social Security Administration will not gather additional records on your behalf once your claim has been sent to the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (also known as ODAR or the Office of Hearings and Read MoreWhat do I do when a disabled veteran in my family can no longer manage their own disability benefits?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: A disabled veteran receiving disability benefits and other compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may become unable to manage these benefits alone. When a veteran is declared incompetent in managing their VA benefits the depa Read MoreHow does the VA arrive at adisability rating?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: The VA evaluates service-connected injuries in increments of 10 percent. They examine the medical evidence you’ve submitted with your claim and then assign a “rating”. The maximum disability rating percentage is 100%; however, most condi Read MoreIf I am injured or disabled how do I apply?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: If travelling or sitting for hours is difficult for you, the office of Disability Help Group can help. Contact our group of trained legal assistants—we will evaluate your claim for FREE! If we take your case, we will file your claim for you. You Read MoreI just started a new application/filed an appealfor disability benefitsbut have since moved/changed my phone number/started seeing a new doctor/my medical condition has worsened or improved/been prescribed and am taking new medication. What should I do?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: We can’t stress this enough – if you’ve: Moved Changed your phone number Started seeing a new doctor Your condition has worsened or improved You’ve recently gone to the emergency room You’ve been prescribed and have Read MoreI just received a notice from Disability Determination Services (DDS) that states I mustundergo a medical examination by one of their doctors. Should Igo to this appointment?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Absolutely! If you fail to comply with any of the DDS examiner’s or administrative law judge’s directives, Social Security may close your claim for disability benefits. Read MoreIf I am denied how can I appeal the decision?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: You can request an appeal by calling the SSA directly at 1.800.772.1213. The SSA will mail you the necessary appeal forms which you will need to complete and send back in order to appeal the decision. Disability Help Group can simplify the appeals Read MoreIf I am injured or disabled, when is the best time to apply?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Now! Each day that passes can result in lost benefits. Contact our office today at 1-(800)-800-3332. We will evaluate your claim for FREE! Read MoreI just received notice that my claim was denied. Should I appeal the decision or start a new application?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Starting a new application because you’ve been denied benefits is a mistake many people make. Often times, people will start a new application because they believe it is the same as appealing the denial. By filing a new application Read MoreWhat can I do to prepare for my hearing with the Board of Veterans’ Appeals?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: If you’ve filed a completed VA Form 9, you are not required to submit any additional paperwork. The Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) will evaluate your appeal based on the same evidence used by your Regional Office (RO) when Read MoreIf I am disabled when will I be eligible for benefits?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: The SSA will determine, according to their rules, whether or not you are disabled. When you are found disabled by the SSA you will be eligible for disability benefits. Generally it takes 1 to 3 months for your 1st check to arrive if you are approv Read MoreI just received a Function Report questionnaire in the mail from Social Security. What should I do?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Complete the questionnaire right away! You only have a limited time to comply (10 days from the date of the letter) with Social Security’s request so, don’t delay. But, don’t rush through your answers either. Whenever y Read MoreI’ve often heard that my disability must meet a “listing”. What exactly is a listing?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: The Social Security issues a “Listing of Impairments” that sets the criteria for determining whether an individual is disabled. It is very difficult to meet or equal Social Security’s Listing requirements. There are Listings Read MoreHow long does it take to get a decision?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Generally it takes 3 to 6 months to receive a decision. If you are not satisfied with the SSA’s decision, you may appeal your decision. If you are denied at the initial application you can appeal your decision by filing a request for Reconsidera Read MoreCan abusing alcohol or illegal or prescription drugs harm my disability claim?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Abusing controlled substances is a sure-fire way to have your disability claim denied. When abused, certain controlled substances can produce mood/affective disorders and psychotic symptoms. In a case Read MoreI don’t have insurance, how can I get medical treatment?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Ongoing medical treatment is the key to winning your claim. We advise our clients to see their doctors regularly. If you do not have insurance we will help you find free clinics or hospitals in your area. Read MoreHow do I apply for disability benefits?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Applying for disability benefits can be complex. You can apply: 1) in person by visiting your local Social Security office, 2) by phone by calling 1.800.772.1213, or 3) online by visiting www.ssa.gov. If you decide to apply online, contact Social Read MoreI am suffering from a service-connected injury, when is the best time to apply?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Don’t waste another minute! Every day that passes can result in lost benefits. Contact our law office today at 1.888.234.5758. We will evaluate your claim for FREE! Read MoreHow severe does my condition have to be to receive disability?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Your medical condition must be established by a trained physician and cause “marked” and “severe” functional limitations. This is best accomplished by having your treating physician complete a Residual Functional Capacity Qu Read MoreHow do I obtain a copy of my discharge/separation papers (DD 214)?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: Your personnel files are housed at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). To request a copy of your military service record contact the NARA by phone at 1.866.272.6272 or submit your order online by visiting www.archives.gov. Read MoreHow long will my disability benefits last?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A: The SSA will award disability benefits until you are able to return to work or until death. Many times the SSA will review your disability claim and may terminate your benefits. Therefore, it is important to continue to receive treatment after you Read MoreHow do I apply for Veterans Disability Compensation?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
Disability claim can be filed in person by visiting your local VA regional office. You will need to complete VA Form 21-526, Veterans Application for Compensation and/or Pension. If have the following documentation, bring it with you&n Read MoreCan I receive more compensation from veterans benefits for dependents like my children?
Posted on February 20, 2016 by Ken LaVan
You can file your disability claim in person by visiting your local VA regional office. You will need to complete VA Form 21-526, Veterans Application for Compensation and/or Pension. If have the following documentation, bring it with Read MoreWounded Veterans With TBI More Likely To Develop Dementia
Posted on February 19, 2016 by Ken LaVan
A recent study looked into the potential relationship between traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and dementia. Researchers found those older veterans who had suffered a TBI at one point in their life were more than twice as likely to develop dementia la Read MoreWounded Warrior Call Center Helps Veterans in Numerous Ways
Posted on February 19, 2016 by Ken LaVan
Many veterans find they have to cope with a variety of issues, including problems in getting compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). For many veterans, The Wounded Warrior Call Center (WWCC) is one call veterans can make that will Read MoreVietnam Veterans’ Skin Conditions May Be Due to Agent Orange
Posted on February 19, 2016 by Ken LaVan
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has developed a list of diseases presumed to be associated with veterans’ exposure to Agent Orange. Veterans who served during the Vietnam War era may have been exposed to this toxic herbicide, which may Read MoreNational Institute of Health and Care Excellence Recommends New CIU Drug
Posted on February 17, 2016 by Ken LaVan
Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) – called chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) in the U.S. – is a potentially disabling skin condition that, according to the World Allergy Organization, may affect as much as two percent of the U.S. population. T Read More
Disabled Children of Vietnam Vets May Qualify for SSD Benefits
Posted on February 15, 2016 by Ken LaVan
Children or grandchildren of a Vietnam vet exposed to Agent Orange who are disabled could seek help through Social Security benefits in addition to benefits through the Veteran’s Administration (VA). The VA recognizes some birth defects – Read More
Can your VA disability benefits be garnished for child support?
Posted on February 14, 2016 by Ken LaVan
At Disability Help Group we want to keep you informed. One topic that comes up again and again with our clients is that of alimony and child support. Many disabled veterans want to know if their VA disability compensation can be garnishe Read MoreBenefits for Children of Vietnam Veterans Exposed to Agent Orange
Posted on February 13, 2016 by Ken LaVan
The children of Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange often suffer disabling health conditions. Many infants born in the 1960s and 70s following the Vietnam and Korean Wars suffered birth defects such as spina bifida due to their military parents& Read More
