V A has quicker process for claims!

 A bit of interesting news for veterans- or families of veterans, who may be interested in submitting disability claims for injuries, wounds and or illnesses sustained while on active duty. The Veterans Benefits Administration last year introduced a process that is designed to simplify and expedite the claim process. The form that the VA uses is referred to as the “VA 21-526EZ”(Application for disability compensation and related compensation benefits)  The previous claim forms were actually about fifteen pages. This EZ form is two. The intent is for the claim process, once submitted, to be completed within 120-150 days!  However- as always, there are caveats.

The “526 EZ” must be completed entirely and any supporting documents for the claim must be included in the submission. If the veteran is married, include a copy of the marriage certificate. If divorced, submit the divorce decree. Children? Include the birth certificates as well. Copies of medical care from a private physician or hospital – for the claimed condition, must be included.  If the veteran is submitting a claim for the first time- the vet must bring the original discharge certificate, the DD 214. It is advisable for the vet to bring all the supporting documents when utilizing the VA form 21-526ZEZ. The Veterans Benefits administration will require and request those anyway.   When the vet is proactive and does this, VA is stating that the claim process will be 120-150 days.

Aother suggestion- veterans' actually should contact a veteran’s organization and request the assistance of an accredited service officer. These folks are trained to counsel and assist veterans. And the best attribute of this? – There is no fee for this service. Two such veteran entities are:                
The American Legion    312 980 4266                
The VFW                     312 980 4282

These two veteran organizations are located at the Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office in Chicago. 

Now that is interesting!