LHFV New Clients: What to Expect From our Office
August 08, 2024
Thank you for choosing Legal Help For Veterans, PLLC as your VA disability claim representative. This article will provide an overview of the VA process and our office’s communication, to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Below you can find answers to frequently asked questions regarding the claims process.
Office Communication
Intake Process
During your initial intake process, you likely spoke with one of our intake coordinators. You can expect an intake coordinator to follow up with you regarding your claim approximately three (3) to four (4) times per year.
Office Emails
To streamline our communication process and ensure timely responses, we recommend utilizing email as the primary form of communication. Email provides an organized platform that allows for clear communication, easy reference, and detailed responses within 24-48 hours.
If you are unable to check your email or do not check your email regularly, we ask you to inform our office. We will remove these communications from your file.
Calling Our Office
Should you contact our office by phone, you will be assisted by one of our receptionists or intake coordinators. Please know that our receptionists are unable to access your client file. They will take a message and forward it to one of our intake coordinators for further follow-up.
If an intake coordinator is unable to answer your question, a phone appointment will be scheduled for a future date with the attorney or claim developer assigned to your file. Our office does not schedule same-day appointments. This allows your attorney or claim developer sufficient time to prepare and provide the best assistance possible during the scheduled appointment time.
We may also send you forms and requests via mail or email. Prompt return of forms is necessary to fully develop your claim. Failure to return requested forms and/or additional information may result in a VA denial of your claim(s). When there is a change to any of your contact information, promptly update it with our office.
Timeline & Examinations
Once your formal claim is filed, it will take the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) approximately six (6) months to issue a Rating Decision. During this time, the VA may contact you to schedule a Compensation and Pension exam – C&P Exam. Our office will NOT be notified of the exam. If you are scheduled for a C&P exam, please contact our office. Your claims developer will set an appointment to prepare you for this examination. Failure to attend a C&P exam can result in a prompt denial of your claim.
If you receive a Rating Decision and are satisfied with the outcome, no further action is necessary. If you receive a disability rating of 10% or higher, you will receive your first check within approximately fifteen (15) days after receiving your decision. If you are owed back pay for the months you were waiting for your claim to process, back pay is typically paid within approximately three (3) months after your decision is issued. If you do not receive a payment within this timeframe, please contact our office.
If your claim is denied or you think your rating should be higher, our office will review your file to determine if an appeal is appropriate. An appeal must be received by the VA one (1) year from the date of the Rating Decision notification letter. We request that you DO NOT FILE APPEALS ON YOUR OWN. When all aspects of the claim process are handled by our office, this allows for more efficient communication and coordination of the claims process, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings and delays.
DO NOT FILE YOUR OWN CLAIM
Do not file new or additional claims on your own as it will delay the VA’s adjudication of your claim. If you are interested in filing an additional claim, please contact our office to set a phone appointment with your attorney or claims developer.
Legal Help For Veterans, PLLC has helped thousands of veterans through the VA claim and appeal process. This experience provides our lawyers with a nuanced understanding of what is needed for a successful VA claim or appeal.
Our team has the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to pursue the full VA disability rating you deserve. We will make sure your claim package is complete, accurate, and submitted properly. We will go the extra mile to help you get the VA benefits you’re entitled to.
Receiving VA Paperwork Related to Your Claim
Please contact our office if you receive any correspondence from the Department of Veterans Affairs related to your VA disability claim. The VA often neglects to copy us on correspondence, and without knowledge of all correspondence you receive from the VA, our ability to represent you could be hindered.
If you have questions or concerns regarding this correspondence or your claim in general, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We will be happy to assist you! Send a message online or call our office at (800) 693-4800.
Thank you for choosing Legal Help For Veterans, PLLC: and thank you for your service!