Many veterans learn all kinds of tips, tricks, and “life hacks” thanks to their military service. During a deployment, a soldier might learn various mechanical skills. They might learn how to defend themselves in a dangerous situation. For many veterans, a general sense of discipline is one of the most valuable rewards of service. When it comes time to apply for VA benefits, you may benefit from additional tips and tricks during the application process. Once you learn about these tips and tricks, it might be easier to get the most out of your VA benefits. For more guidance on VA benefits, consider a consultation with an elder law attorney.

Review Your Discharge Papers Before Applying

Before you begin, you might want to review your discharge papers. Look for something called a “DD-214,” which details the circumstances of your discharge. If you do not have your DD-214, you can request a copy from the National Archives. This might be something that a lawyer can assist with if you are not sure how to proceed.

Why is your DD-214 necessary if you want to apply for VA benefits? The truth is that not all servicemembers get access to VA benefits. If you received a “dishonorable discharge,” you might not be eligible to pursue these benefits at all. That being said, you might still gain access to these benefits even if you were dishonorably discharged. If you review your DD-214 and determine that your discharge was not honorable, speak with an experienced lawyer. Pursuing VA benefits may be possible – but it makes sense to review your situation in more detail before moving forward with your application.

Gather Additional Documents

Before you get started with your application, you might want to gather as many relevant documents as possible. It makes more sense to gather these documents together before starting on your application. Otherwise, you will have to stop filling out your application as you periodically search for the information you need. Other than your DD-214, necessary documents might include marriage certificates, divorce decrees, income statements, tax returns, and healthcare provider info.

If you’re not sure what kind of documents you need before starting your application, speak with an experienced lawyer. The necessary documents may vary depending on your unique situation – especially if you are applying for a widow’s pension.

Consider Keeping a Journal

As you approach your new application, you might want to write a journal. This could be a positive move if you are applying for VA medical benefits. A journal can help you document some of the less obvious psychological effects of a serious injury. Don’t be afraid to express your feelings in these journal entries. As long as you make your entries at the same time as your treatment, they can support your application – and they might increase the chances of positive outcomes.

A journal could be particularly useful if you’re applying for PTSD-related benefits. In addition, journal entries could help you recover benefits for mental health issues caused by head injuries.

Review Your Medical Records

As a general rule, it makes sense to carefully review your medical records before starting your VA benefits application. It may be difficult to apply for the appropriate benefits if you are not totally confident about your medical condition(s). Consider requesting copies of your medical records and have them at your side as you fill out your application.

It is all too easy to write incorrect information when filling out these applications. Be as specific as possible – and write down the official medical term for your injuries. For example, you should write “femur fracture” rather than “broken leg.” You might also want to spell out acronyms. For example, you would write post-traumatic stress disorder rather than “PTSD.”

Be Prepared to Reveal Family  Information

Although it might seem awkward, these applications require you to reveal considerable details about your family information and history. The VA needs to know about all of your previous marriages, and you will need to list the names and relevant information of prior spouses. If you have a current spouse, they might also need to list their own prior marriages. This section alone can take hours to complete if both spouses have had numerous previous marriages.

You might also need to reveal the names and information of your children. Rest assured that the VA is a reputable organization, and they will not share this sensitive information with others.

Take Your Time

Although it might seem tempting to rush through your VA benefits application, it makes more sense to take your time. A single mistake could cause your application to be denied – and this may cause needless delays. If you urgently need VA benefits, it makes even more sense to slow down and double-check your application before sending it. Rushing will not get you anywhere, and it may push you several steps backward. If you are worried about potential mistakes on your application, have a lawyer check it over first.

Consider Expediting Your Application

It is possible to expedite a VA benefits application in certain circumstances. Generally speaking, expedited applications are reserved for those who need them most. These might include terminally ill people or those who desperately need life-saving treatment. If you think that you might fall into one of these categories, discuss the possibility of an expedited application with your lawyer.

Consider Adding Supporting Statements

According to the VA, supporting statements can help your application. These statements should come from reliable third parties, such as friends, family, or the military servicemembers you served alongside. Supporting statements can shed further light on your claimed condition(s), and they can improve the chances of an approved application.

Contact the Elderly Care Law Firm Today

If you are serious about getting the most out of your VA benefits, contact the Elderly Care Law Firm today. Located in Miami, our law firm has been helping seniors and veterans for years. We know how crucial VA benefits can be, and we can guide you through the application process with confidence and efficiency. Remember, online research is only the first step – and you can continue this important discussion during a meeting with us. Book your consultation today to get started.