VA Made Easy

Win Your Appeal at the Court of Veterans Appeals Level: What to do After Negative Board Decision

A Board decision doesn't have to be final. In this episode, Ed walks through the appeal process at the Court of Veterans Appeals level. He explains the rules you must follow to give yourself the best odds to win your appeal, as well as the most common outcomes. 
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RlzXpy2Lqho 
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice       
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com      
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com    

Proposed VA Rating Reductions: Know Your Rights and How to Prevent Reduction

Welcome back to VA Made Easy. In today's episode, Ed Farmer, VA disability appeals attorney and combat veteran delves into the unnerving topic of VA rating reductions. Ed breaks down the reasons behind potential decreases, the VA's legal obligations, and your rights in contesting such proposals. Highlighting how reductions can stem from reevaluations, requests for increased ratings, or TDIU filings, he arms veterans with critical strategies for response. Understanding the importance of thorough exams and sustained improvement, Ed ensures you're equipped to maintain your rightful rating. 
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/P9tGfQD_Y8I 
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice       
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com      
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice          
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com    

PFAS Exposure in the Military: How to Meet VA Standards for Disability Claims

Welcome back to VA Made Easy. In today's episode, Ed Farmer, VA disability appeals attorney and combat veteran, delves into the complexities of filing a service-connected disability claim related to PFAS exposure in the military. Ed breaks down the key steps in winning a claim, emphasizing the importance of not just being exposed to PFAS, but also having a resulting disability or illness. He highlights the need to show a likely connection between the condition and PFAS exposure, discussing the C8 science panel's findings linking certain conditions to PFAS. Additionally, he provides insights on how to show exposure to PFAS, whether through firefighting foam use, military base contamination, or other means. 
C8 Science Panel: http://www.c8sciencepanel.org/DOD PFAS interactive map: https://www.acq.osd.mil/eie/eer/ecc/pfas/map/pfasmap.htmlThe Environmental Working Group PFAS interactive map: https://www.ewg.org/interactive-maps/2019-pfas-crash-training-military-sites-March2020/map/
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DZqCFFkcb_4
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice      
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com     
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice         
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com  

Understanding VA Rating Changes for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Celiac Disease, and Hemorrhoids

Welcome back to VA Made Easy, in this episode Ed Farmer, VA disability appeals attorney and combat veteran, delves into the upcoming changes to VA rating criteria for digestive system disorders. Covering the three major updates for irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, and hemorrhoids, Ed breaks down the implications for veterans seeking disability benefits. With a focus on the minimum ratings, new diagnostic codes, and criteria adjustments, he sheds light on how these changes can potentially impact veterans' disability ratings. Additionally, Ed offers insights into how these modifications may affect veterans already rated for these conditions and provides guidance on navigating the forthcoming alterations.
Videos mentioned: https://youtu.be/_1nFtXxOplM 
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ptTOUk-U03M  
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice      
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com     
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice         
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com   

Unpacking the VA PACT Act & TERA Exams: Delays, Flaws & Solutions

Join VA disability appeals attorney and combat veteran Ed Farmer in this episode of VA Made Easy as he delves into the VA PACT Act and the issues surrounding TERA exams. Ed highlights how the VA is scheduling an increasing number of TERA exams for various conditions, leading to unnecessary delays in claims processing. He discusses the inadequacy of these exams, including examiners spending minimal time with veterans and the poor conditions of some exam locations. Ed also touches on the impact of these issues on the VA disability system and shares insights on the proposed Senate Bill 20718, aimed at improving the quality of medical disability exams. Ed explains what you can do if you are assigned a TERA exam and your different options.
Bill mentioned: https://www.congress.gov/118/bills/s2718/BILLS-118s2718is.pdf 
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7s4u1uxS6Tw 
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice      
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com     
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice         
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com       

Prove These 3 Elements for Service Connection

Join VA disability appeals attorney and combat veteran Ed Farmer as he delves into the three crucial elements required to establish service connection for VA disability compensation. In this episode, Ed emphasizes the importance of proving a current disability, identifying an event, injury, or disease in service, and establishing a medical nexus between the current disability and the in-service event. Using real-life examples and practical advice, Ed sheds light on the complexities of the VA disability system, offering valuable insights to help veterans navigate their claims effectively.  
Forms mentioned: https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-21-4138/  
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9LgJJAGTb4o 
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice     
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com    
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice       
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com      

Informal Conferences and Higher Level Reviews Unpacked

Join VA disability appeals attorney and combat veteran Ed Farmer as he delves into the higher-level review process and the potential benefits of informal conferences. Ed sheds light on the common scenarios where higher-level reviews are relevant, such as addressing incorrect effective dates and ensuring consideration of positive evidence.
He also shares his shift in utilizing informal conferences to communicate effectively with higher-level reviewers, offering valuable insights into the purpose and impact of these conversations. Drawing from his extensive experience, Ed provides practical guidance on navigating the VA disability appeals system, empowering veterans to advocate for their entitled benefits.
Forms mentioned: https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-20-0996-ARE.pdf
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nPX9lEL8fB8 
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice    
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com   
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice      
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com    

Why is my VA Appeal Taking So Long?

In this episode of VA Made Easy, Ed Farmer, a VA-accredited attorney and US Army combat veteran, explains why your appeal to the board may be taking longer than expected. Ed discusses the factors that lead to these delays, including the large number of appeals at the board and the implications of the two appeal systems. He also sheds light on bureaucratic mismanagement and how it affects the appeals process. With his candid and experienced perspective, Ed highlights the challenges veterans face while navigating the VA disability system and provides valuable guidance to help them overcome these obstacles.
Five Ways to Fight the Board of Veterans' Appeals Denial -  https://youtu.be/7yD1ISkYR88  
How to Expedite Your VA Claim or Appeal - https://youtu.be/ajsBuLN2V4Y 
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/G2mlq7UcjC8 
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice   
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com  
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice    
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com  

How Secondary Service Connection Can Maximize Your VA Disability Rating

Join Ed Farmer, a VA accredited attorney and US Army combat veteran, as he breaks down secondary service connection for VA diability ratings. Drawing from his real case experienced, Ed explains the process of building up a disability rating through secondary service connection, using a step-by-step approach and practical examples from a winning case. He shares insights on the criteria for establishing secondary service connection, the importance of medical evidence, and the potential impact on a veteran's overall disability rating.
 
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u_xo6PYNlBk 
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice   
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com  
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice    
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com  

Strategies for Winning Your VA Disability Claim: Navigating Chronic Conditions Diagnosed Post-Service

In today's episode of VA Made Easy, VA-accredited attorney and US Army veteran Ed Farmer explains the VA's presumptive rule for conditions related to service and how to win a claim even if you were diagnosed years after leaving the service. Exploring the list of conditions that can qualify for this presumption, Ed provides insights into the process of proving service connection and winning claims. 
He gives a real example of a case he recently won with a client with schizophrenia, who wasn't aware he had the condition for many years after leaving the service. Ed walks through how they won the case and the steps in doing so. Additionally, Ed highlights the importance of showing symptoms to a degree of at least 10% and what that means. At the end of the episode, he tells us of a condition qualifying for this rule: even if it was manifested or diagnosed within seven years, the VA can presume service connection. 
Please find resources mentioned in today's episode below. 
List of condiitons: www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/38/3.309    
Example of 10% rating for schizophrenia: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFRfa64377db09ae97/section-4.130 
 
Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ciMHiAJjcIs 
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice   
You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com  
Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.
If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice    
You can also find more information about my practice at:https://www.vetlawoffice.com