Disabled veteran with less that 30% (Army, officer, veterans, insurance)

[bstenz]

I got out of the army in 2001 just before 9/11. My problem is that I was only given 20% at the time. My back problems have continually gotten worse since. I have severe arthritis in thoracic spine and three bulging disks in low back. Just found out in some of the records that I coppied before I got out that I had the bad disks before getting out and was never told. Can anyone tell me how I can go back and get the 30% rating. I have a bad feeling that the VA may have me at 100% by the end of the year. But I need the added retirment benefits for my family since I personally do not quallify for most insurance policies. I am so frustrated that I am getting nowhere

[Woland]

You can get a reevaluation done. I would suggest you contact the Disabled American Veterans and work through them.

Disabled American Veterans

[goodmanm]

I would second using an organization such as DAV when dealing with the VA.

[texdav]

I also would look into havign a specailist look at those bugling disk as they can be surgerially fixed pretty well in most cases now days. I have many firends that had this done. They are wroking today with only certain restrictions. Also look into get education assistance with the injury if it eliminate your occupation as one friend had too.They have made great advances in back surgery form even ten years ago.

[Synergy1]

Originally Posted by bstenz

Can anyone tell me how I can go back and get the 30% rating.

First of all Welcome Home.

In my section of town we use the American Legion just because our VA Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is just fantastic and represents the American Legion....

A group of Veterans where I live try help others get help such as you need and we help them navigate through the RED Tape.

Now what you need to do is Go see your local Veterans Service Officer in your town. You will also need a copy of your DD-214 so he/she can get started in your claim to increase your benefits. If you cannot find a number to call for a VSO then your local VA hospital can help. You will also need to know of all doctors you have seen since you got out of the service, if you have them available or you need to develope a history of help by going to the VA or see a regular doctor.

There is alot more to understand but first get familiar with a GOOD VSO because they are the ones that will help you and PUSH your claim successfully. Once you file a claim for increase you will be seeing a lot of VA doctors then a Compensation and Pension (C+P) interview will follow by a VA PhD. You MUST be prepared for a C+P. We can help you so plese let me know...

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