Legal Help for Veterans blog.
Jun
15
VA DIsability Claims Blog Cover Photo LHFV 6

New Bill Could Limit TDIU for Veterans Over 67: What You Need to Know

News and Press, Claims Processing

A recently introduced bill in Congress is starting to get attention — and raise questions — among veterans who receive (or may eventually apply for) Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability, or TDIU.  On June 3rd, 2026, Congressman Keith Self introduced H.R. 9135, the Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability Reform Act of 2026. At first glance, a majority of the bill mirrors rules the VA already […]

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Jun
08
VA DIsability Claims Blog Cover Photo LHFV 5

What Happens After You File a VA Disability Claim: A Step-by-Step Guide for Veterans

Claims Processing

Filing a VA disability claim is a big step — and for a lot of veterans, there’s real relief in finally hitting “submit.” But then comes the harder part: waiting. What follows can feel confusing, frustrating, and sometimes just plain slow.  One of the first questions most veterans ask after hitting “submit” is: Now what?  The answer depends on a few things — […]

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May
29
denied VA benefits application

How to Read Your VA Decision Letter Like an Attorney (And Spot Mistakes Fast)

Claims Processing

Contributions by Kristina Derro, VA Disability Attorney When veterans receive a VA decision letter, most people immediately look for one thing: the result. Approved. Denied. Percentage assigned. After waiting months — sometimes longer — for a decision, it’s natural to skip straight to the answer. But the outcome is only part of what the letter […]

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Mar
25
veteran frustrated with VA paperwork because of the immense backlog and mess that the VA system has created

VA Claims Backlog 2026: Where Things Stand and How to Avoid Delays

Claims Processing

The VA disability claim backlog remains one of the most pressing issues facing veterans in 2026. While the VA claims that they’ve made progress in processing claims, hundreds of thousands of cases are still pending – leaving many veterans waiting months for a decision. Where the Backlog Stands in 2026 As of early 2026, the […]

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Nov
19
Mistakes in military sexual trauma claims remain a widespread problem

Errors in Military Sexual Trauma Claims Continue to Harm Veterans

Claims Processing

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has touted the seriousness of military sexual trauma (MST) claims. The VA has explained that these claims deserve individualized and careful review. As such, these claims are supposed to adhere to a specific set of evidentiary rules, addressing how challenging it is for survivors to document their assault. However, […]

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Aug
25
If you are a veteran thinking about filing a disability claim, the recent numbers might make it seem like things are running smoothly. For some, they are. For others, the process is still full of roadblocks that can be hard to navigate without support.

Understanding the New VA Disability Claims Process: Opportunities and Hurdles

Claims Processing

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says it is processing disability claims faster than ever. According to a recent announcement, the agency has already completed more than two million claims this fiscal year, setting an all-time record. That may sound like good news, but anyone who has filed a claim before knows the process is […]

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Nov
26
VA Unprepared for the PACT Act 840 x 350

Veterans Affairs is Unprepared for PACT Act Claims

Claims Processing, Medical Issues / Disability, News and Press, Veterans Law

The Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022 was passed to help veterans exposed to toxic substances during service, like Agent Orange and Burn Pits. The Act expands eligibility for VA healthcare and other benefits by adding over 20 conditions. While the act promised many benefits to those affected, Veterans Affairs severely underestimated how many veterans […]

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Oct
15
Understanding common pitfalls can help improve veterans’ chances of a successful claim.

Common Mistakes When Filing VA Disability Benefits and How to Avoid Them

Claims Processing

Many veterans find navigating the process of filing disability claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) daunting. Unfortunately, mistakes can lead to delays or even denials of necessary benefits. Understanding common pitfalls can help improve veterans’ chances of a successful claim. Submitting Incomplete or Inaccurate Information on the VA Disability Claim Form Among the […]

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Aug
18
LHFV Blog Web Cover 1

VA Eliminates Mandatory Staff Overtime

Claims Processing, Employment, News and Press

The Department of Veterans Affairs has had a policy running for over seven years requiring mandatory staff overtime.

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Aug
07
LHFV New Clients: What to Expect from our Office

LHFV New Clients: What to Expect From our Office

Claims Processing, Veterans Law

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 […]

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