According to the VA, the average number of days to complete disability-related claims in February 2024 is 158.4 days. The process is long and slow, even if you have done everything right.
Waiting to hear from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs about a claim you’ve filed can be like waiting for rain in a drought. It’s frustrating and stressful and you might feel stuck not knowing if relief is on the way. Whether you’re awaiting compensation, education benefits, or health care claims, the silence can be deafening.
But there’s hope, and there are steps you can take to find out what’s happening and how you might speed things up. Vets National is here to guide you through these uncertain times.
Understand the VA claims process
Understanding how the VA claims process works can provide some comfort. The process involves several stages, including claim submission, initial review, evidence gathering, substantive review, and, finally, a decision.
Knowing where your claim is in these stages can help manage expectations and timelines. Remember, some claims take longer than others, depending on their complexity and the amount of evidence required.
Check your claim status online
The first step is often the simplest but can be easily overlooked.
The VA has an online claims status tool veterans can use to quickly and easily check the status of their claims and appeals. By logging into their VA.gov accounts, they can see where their claim is in the process, actions they must take, and estimated completion dates.
This tool can provide immediate answers or clues about delays.
Reach out for an update
If checking online doesn’t give you the answers you need, don’t hesitate to reach out for a more personal update. You can call the VA directly or visit a local VA Regional Office. When you call or visit, be sure to have your claim number, social security number, and any other relevant information on hand. This can help the VA representatives provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information about your claim.
Seek assistance from an advocate
Sometimes navigating the VA’s processes alone can be overwhelming. This is where advocates, like attorneys and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) come in.
Advocates offer support and guidance to veterans filing claims with the VA and can help you understand the status of your claim and gather additional evidence. They can even advocate on your behalf if necessary. Some accredited representatives can see the status of your claim within the VA’s VBMS system as well.
VSO representatives are well-versed in VA policies and procedures and can be a valuable ally in navigating the claims process.
Consider filing a claim to expedite
Under certain circumstances, you can request to expedite your claim. These circumstances include extreme financial hardship, terminal illness, age 85 or older, and others. You can use VA Form 20-10207 to request priority processing for your claim due to certain qualifying circumstances or status.
Experiencing Excessive Delay
If, after an unreasonable period of time, you still have not received a decision on your VA claim, you have several options. You can contact your local government officials or VA leadership. You can also consider filing a Writ of Mandamus at the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, which would require the VA to act on your claim.
How Vets National can help
At Vets National, we understand how challenging the wait for a decision can be. Our mission is to support our veterans through this process, offering guidance, assistance, and advocacy. From checking on the status of your claim to helping you file an appeal, if necessary, our team is here to ensure you’re not navigating this path alone.
If you’re feeling lost in the silence awaiting a decision on a claim, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our expertise and resources are designed to give you the best chance at the benefits you deserve. Let Vets National be your guide and advocate in the VA claims process.
Contact Vets National
Contact Vets National today for support and guidance with your VA claim. Together, we can navigate the complexities of the VA system and work toward the positive outcome you’ve earned. Call 877-777-4021 today.
