VA Made Easy

How to Service Connect Sleep Apnea for VA Disability Claims

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice  
Are you struggling to service connect your sleep apnea claim with the VA? In this episode, VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer sits down with physician assistant Joey Richardson from Casparii Medical to break down how veterans can successfully link sleep apnea to their military service, both through direct and secondary service connections.
Covered in the episode:✅ The most effective types of medical evidence for VA sleep apnea claims✅ Why witness statements, service-era symptom documentation, and sleep studies matter✅ Common secondary connections: mental health conditions, weight gain, orthopedic injuries, and nasal pathologies✅ How medical professionals review your VA claim file and build a strong nexus opinion✅ Strategies for veterans who’ve been denied or don’t know which service connection applies
Reach out to Joey and his team at info@caspariimedical.com . 
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bS1hfUvJpzc 
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

Reopening a Final VA Decision: Everything Veterans Should Know

Was your VA disability claim denied years ago and you’re wondering if you can still do something about it? You’re not alone, and the good news is, a denial isn’t always the end of the road.
As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice  
In this episode, VA-accredited attorney and U.S. Army combat veteran Ed Farmer explains: - The difference between reopening a final VA decision and appealing within the first year- What qualifies as a “final decision” under VA law- How to reopen a VA claim using VA Form 20-0995- What counts as new and relevant evidence (diagnosis, buddy statements, medical nexus, etc.)- Why timelines matter and how appeals preserve your effective date-You’ll also learn practical tips for reviewing your old denial letter, identifying missing evidence, and strengthening your claim for a better chance of success.
Even if your VA claim was denied decades ago, it may not be too late. This episode empowers veterans to understand their rights, avoid common mistakes, and know when legal guidance can make a real difference
VA Form 20-0995: https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-20-0995-are.pdf VA Form 21 526EZ: https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-21-526ez-are.pdf  
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0n8VDFo1Q4Y 
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

How to Handle VA C&P Exams for Joints and Flare-Ups

VA-accredited attorney and Army veteran Ed Farmer discusses the top 4 reasons veterans are getting denied — and what you can do about it.
As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice  
Preparing for a VA C&P exam for a joint condition? VA attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer explains how the VA rates joint disabilities—including the role of functional loss, flare-ups, and pain—and how to avoid the common mistakes that cost veterans their benefits.
In this video, Ed breaks down how examiners measure range of motion, why documenting the exact point where pain begins is critical, and how fatigue, weakness, and flare-ups factor into your rating. You’ll learn how to clearly explain your limitations, describe flare-ups in terms of daily activities, and catch examiner errors that could lead to an unfairly low evaluation.
If your claim has been denied—or if your current rating doesn’t reflect how much your joint condition truly limits you—Ed also covers the steps to appeal and strengthen your case.
Joint claims can be some of the toughest cases veterans face, but with preparation and the right advocacy, you can give the VA the evidence they need to grant the benefits you’ve earned.
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xwb-QifO-sg 
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

5 VA Rating Rules Every Veteran Needs to Know

I AM A VA-ACCREDITED ATTORNEY and I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice
Want a Higher VA Disability Rating? Don’t Miss These 5 Powerful Rules!
VA-accredited attorney and combat veteran Ed Farmer breaks down 5 must-know VA disability rating rules that could significantly impact your claim. Whether you’re just starting your claim or stuck in a long appeal, these tips could make all the difference.
👉 In this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ How the bilateral factor boosts ratings for conditions affecting both arms or legs✅ Why the “higher of two evaluations” rule might mean a bigger benefit✅ What happens when the VA can’t separate symptoms from service-connected vs. non-service-connected issues✅ When medication side effects do (or don’t) impact your rating✅ How staged ratings can lead to increases over time
Ed shares real-world examples and practical advice to help you avoid common mistakes and get the rating you deserve.
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/p2u9O0K3cqs
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #vacourt

VA’s Sneakiest Denial Tool: Rework Exams Explained

VA-accredited attorney and Army veteran Ed Farmer discusses the top 4 reasons veterans are getting denied — and what you can do about it.
As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 
Have you been denied VA benefits even after a favorable C&P exam?
VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer exposes one of the VA’s most frustrating tactics: “rework exams”—when the VA quietly asks examiners to change positive opinions, often in high-value claims with big retroactive payouts on the line.
In this episode, you’ll discover:- What a rework exam really is and why it’s not about quality control.- How this tactic unfairly targets veterans with strong claims, sometimes without another exam.- Steps you can take if you’re hit with a rework request.- How attorneys use the VA’s case management system to push back.- Key case law (Mariano v. Principi, Douglas v. Shinseki) that can strengthen your appeal.- Strategies for Higher-Level Reviews and Board of Veterans’ Appeals cases.
If you’re facing a rework exam, you can fight back and win. This episode gives you the knowledge, tools, and confidence to protect your benefits and hold the VA accountable.
🎯 Don’t miss this—your claim could depend on it.
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0ESZiK1wjnU 
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

Two Presumptions That Can Help Your VA Claim for Pre-Existing Conditions

VA-accredited attorney and Army veteran Ed Farmer discusses the top 4 reasons veterans are getting denied — and what you can do about it.
As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 
Do you have a pre-existing condition and wonder if it can be service-connected by the VA? 
VA-accredited attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer breaks down what every veteran needs to know about the VA’s “presumption of soundness” and “presumption of aggravation.”
In this episode, Ed explains: ✅ How the VA must prove your condition wasn’t aggravated by service ✅ What clear and unmistakable evidence means ✅ When the VA can rebut your claim (e.g., congenital issues, natural progression) ✅ What to do if your condition was noted at enlistment
You’ll learn actionable tips on:- Reviewing your entrance exams- Getting strong medical opinions- Catching common VA mistakes
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t2mnq6NATTw 
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

Should You Skip a VA C&P Exam? Risks and Strategies from a VA Lawyer

VA-accredited attorney and Army veteran Ed Farmer discusses the top 4 reasons veterans are getting denied — and what you can do about it.
As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 
Should you attend that extra VA C&P exam, or is it smarter to skip it? VA-accredited attorney and combat veteran Ed Farmer discusses this strategic dilemma that many veterans face during the claims process. 
In this episode, Ed explains why the VA sometimes requests additional exams after you’ve already submitted a strong independent medical opinion or nexus letter—and the risks and rewards of refusing to go.
You’ll learn about potential consequences of missing a VA exam, how the “benefit of the doubt” rule can work in your favor, and why some adjudicators may not interpret the rules in your best interest. Ed breaks down when skipping the exam might give your claim more weight, but also why it can lead to longer wait times and more appeals. With practical advice and caution around high-stakes decisions, this episode empowers you to make an informed choice about your VA claim.
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8CPJc8BEM-k 
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

The 4 Biggest Problems with the VA Regional Office

VA-accredited attorney and Army veteran Ed Farmer discusses the top 4 reasons veterans are getting denied — and what you can do about it.
As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 
In this episode, Ed highlights why independent medical opinions are often ignored, why informal conferences with higher-level reviewers have become unproductive, and how incorrect exam requests can sabotage your claim.
You’ll also learn why so many veterans are awarded the wrong effective dates and the challenges these errors create. Ed shares the strategies his law firm uses to fight these issues, including when it makes sense to appeal all the way to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. Throughout the episode, you'll get practical advice on gathering the right evidence, appealing unfair decisions, and staying persistent.
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t6HRyrCCipk 
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

10 Real VA Claim Questions — Straight Answers from a VA Attorney

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 
In this episode of VA Made Easy, VA-accredited attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer answers 10 real questions from veterans struggling with VA disability claims and appeals.
Ed breaks down how to prove chronic joint pain, link sleep apnea to PTSD—especially when weight gain plays a role—and strategies to secure the back pay you deserve. He explains what to expect if your prostate cancer rating drops after treatment and how to use buddy statements effectively when medical documentation is lacking.
You’ll also learn how to file for TDIU, appeal for a higher rating, and protect your claim’s effective date if you miss a C&P exam. Ed even covers what happens if a veteran passes away during their appeal and how to keep the process moving.
Whether you’ve been denied, delayed, or just don’t know what to do next, this episode offers clear, actionable advice to help you take control of your VA claim and get the benefits you’ve earned.
Subscribe for more straightforward guidance on VA disability claims from someone who’s been in your boots.
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Jn5fX-rknNU 
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 
#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

Top 5 TDIU Questions Veterans Ask – Answered by a VA Attorney

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 
Are you confused about the VA’s rules for unemployability, also known as TDIU? VA-accredited attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer tackles the five most common questions he receives about TDIU in this episode of VA Made Easy.
Ed explains why the VA cannot use your age as a factor in unemployability claims, and clarifies when and how the VA is supposed to “infer” a TDIU claim—even if you never filed the official paperwork. He addresses misconceptions about employment history, including why your educational and occupational background matters if the VA says you could just “work an office job.” You'll also learn how the VA defines “substantial gainful employment” and what counts as crossing the income threshold for TDIU eligibility. Finally, Ed discusses the intersection of TDIU and Social Security benefits, shedding light on when you can receive both.
If you’ve been denied unemployability or aren’t sure how the rules apply to your case, this episode provides clear answers and practical tips to help you move forward. 
VA form 8940 - https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-21-8940-are.pdf 
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OeJugr4K8xs  
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 is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims.