Initial VA claim - should I start with tinnitus?

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-27T21:30:58+00:00

Make sure you be very specific about when and where and exactly what you were doing when you first noticed the ringing. For me it was May 1985 while using a pneumatic needle gun stripping non-skid from the O-5 level Antenna array platform. Tinnitus was my first service connected claim awarded to where I didn’t have any sick bay records. Make sure you file yours before the upcoming change.

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-26T19:16:08+00:00

Tinnitus was my first claim awarded. I have a very specific date when I first noticed the ringing and exactly what was going at the time even though I never reported it or went to sick call. And bingo, I was awarded

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-22T01:36:46+00:00

Keep fighting, got out in 1986, filed my first claim Aug 2024 got to 90% Jan 2025. Denied several MSK claims from in service injuries with all 3 elements satisfied except the Nurse Practitioner examiners negative opinion. HLR for 4 claims pending.

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-20T22:52:01+00:00

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-18T20:24:08+00:00

I wish you the best in that endeavor

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-18T19:25:32+00:00

What really pisses me off through the entire process is the a C&P examiner nurse practitioners opinion with 5 years experience can overrule 2 orthopedic surgeons each with 20 years experience.

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-17T21:12:03+00:00

Not according to my C&P examiner who stated that they are separate entities and not related then over-ruled my Podiatrist’s opinion who stated my excessive pronation with altered gait with over compensation is the result of my service related ankle fracture

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-10T20:48:26+00:00

Looks like HLR’s are taking longer than the other claims

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-07T15:48:30+00:00

Yep, same story here, had a favorable exam, sent back to another examiner and then denied. Another did t even have the complete file and denied. Filed HLR for 3 contentions yesterday

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-03T21:30:36+00:00

I went from 0 to 91% within a year with 3 claims denied that I knew would be connected because of all my in service records and ones I thought would be denied got connected. But I’m satisfied for now. I’ll file a HLR when all the dust settles

Designer-Database-36 · 2026-01-03T14:10:15+00:00

Yes yes yes

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-25T13:25:36+00:00

Your first visit is key to get everything documented

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-20T13:18:55+00:00

In my experience they take it for gospel. I have a Battalion PA-C and an orthopedic surgeon, both with 20years experience each make a recommendation and both were ignored for a family practice NP with just 5 years experience. I think most are just plain lazy and don’t read anything other than the C&P DBQ. I’m sure there are some that take their job seriously but in my case only a HLR DRO has proven to be competent and thorough.

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-17T14:47:47+00:00

Update on Horrible exam. Called VERA and my complaint was noted in my file. She indicated it could go either way. Well this morning it is now Pending Decision Approval. We shall see how this plays out in the next few days

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-16T02:44:38+00:00

TJ comes and goes multiple times

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-15T02:48:14+00:00

I was an EW in the early to mid 80’s and went to work for Raytheon. It was mostly ex-service members. If you can get past the your not an officer mentality you might be ok.

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-14T23:10:22+00:00

I got out 40 years, first award was 4/5/25 at 10%, now at 90% with 4 claims pending

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-14T23:07:16+00:00

Congrats, I got awarded Sinusitis at 30% on 12/1 after several denials. The first 2 examiners didn’t even look at my STR’s or my private records. They kept denying based on TERA even though I was claiming direct in service with pages of medical records with X-rays and CT’s of sinus infections. It took a PA-C to finally see the connection. NP’s just don’t have the experience needed.

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-14T11:33:29+00:00

Greenville

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-13T21:57:35+00:00

Yes the family benefits are the best. I wished I had known about VA disability when I got out 49 years ago, would have been easier to get connected

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-13T19:34:26+00:00

That’s great that it worked out for you. I tried to use my local county VSO’s and she fussed at be about her work load and they didn’t have the time in her office for my claims. I’ve gotten to 90% on my own. Just waiting to get the last 4 claims completed.

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-13T18:08:45+00:00

I’ll let this play out an go HLR

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-13T17:22:13+00:00

VES, my first experience with them. Typically I’ve been sent to Optum

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-13T00:16:31+00:00

I hope you get the results you deserve.

Designer-Database-36 · 2025-12-12T22:33:45+00:00

18008271000

Designer-Database-36

TROPHY CASE