3 Elements of Direct Service Connection Generally, when we talk about service connected disability compensation, we’re referring to the 3 elements of direct service connection. To establish entitlement to service connection on a direct basis (i.e., the condition is directly related to service) for a particular disability, a veteran must

VA The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes the importance of providing educational assistance not only to veterans but also to their dependents. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the VA Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) benefit, exploring its eligibility criteria, application process, and the opportunities it offers to the

Today, we recognize Gold Star Spouses – those spouses of service members killed in action. The sacrifices of Gold Star spouses, and indeed the entire family of the fallen service member, cannot be adequately expressed. Those that must live in the wake of their loss, knowing their loved ones gave

Military Kids The Department of Defense (DOD) began its initiative to celebrate the Month of the Military Child in April 1986. Every year for the last 36 years, DOD has worked with “national, state, and local government, schools, military serving organizations, companies, and private citizens in celebrating military children and

Once VA determines that service connection for a psychiatric condition (PTSD or other) is warranted, it will then rate the condition based on VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities.  It is important to note that no matter what the underlying diagnosis is – whether VA awarded service connection for PTSD, Major

Service Connection Service connection refers to an injury, disease, or other disability related to a veteran’s active duty service. Once service connection is achieved, VA will compensate the veteran based on the degree of their disability. Generally, to establish a claim for service connection, the evidence must establish the following

Important Things to Know About Filing Claims Under the PACT Due to Burn Pit Exposure Recently, Congress and VA have implemented expansive legislation, known as the Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022 (PACT Act), acknowledging that numerous serious health conditions and cancers are related to a

While not a Congressionally recognized commemoration day, it is nevertheless gathering critical support among advocates and representatives, including organizations such as the American Kennel Club. At present, several states officially recognize K-9 Veterans Day on March 13th. Why March 13th? March 13, 1942 is the birthday of the US Army

Exam Scenarios One of the tips for a successful exam is knowing what the exam is for. Knowing what issues the exam will be focused on is incredibly important. When you submit a claim, you can reasonably assume that an examination will be ordered. What you claim (and even how