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Tips On Working With Your Service Representative It is always an advantage, regardless of the nature of the disorder underlying a claim for benefits, to have an experienced veterans service representative assist you in the prosecution of a claim for VA disability compensation. These individuals are familiar with veterans benefits law and procedures, and can provide more effective representation than trying to handle the claim yourself. . Keep in touch: You should talk to your representative at least once per month while your claim is pending. Whenever you get mail from the VA, call your representative to make sure that he or she has received a copy (as required by VA regulations) and that you understand exactly what it means. Ask questions: If you do not understand something about your claim, ask about it. Part of your service representative’s responsibility is to ensure that you understand the claims process. Exercise your judgment: Your service representative is charged with acting in your best interests. However, you are the ultimate decision maker with respect to your claim. Your service representative will tell you if he or she disagrees with what you want to do and why. They can make recommendations, but must do as you instruct. Note that the law permits service representatives to resign if there are true fundamental disagreements. Insist that your service representative: be familiar with your VA claims file and all of the evidence; be able and willing to discuss what VA regulations require to win your case and what evidence is needed to prevail; discuss your case and what to expect with respect to personal hearings; submit a written statement to the VA before a personal hearing. He or she should let you read the statement before it is submitted. ______________________________________________________ Copyright © 2004, Vietnam
Veterans of America, Inc. All Rights Reserved. ISBN 0-964-3980-4-4.
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