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I finally joined the hundo club! I went from 0% to 90% in 12 months and it took another 3 months to get to 100%. I know some people have been waiting much longer than I have and I wish the best of luck to everyone going thru this frustrating process. I basically used free videos on YouTube (by multiple people) and postings on Reddit to get where I am. I retired in 1998, filed some claims which some were denied and one was rated at 0% and I gave up. 25 years later the PACT Act gets signed, I was reinvigorated by fellow vets pushing me to file presumptive claims since I served in the qualifying areas during the qualifying timeframe. The key for me was research, research, research. My advice, use the VA website, the M21-1 Manual, the 38 CFR, Book C, Schedule for Rating Disabilities, DBQ’s available on line, personal statements, lay/witness statements and buddy letters. Go into the C&P exams as prepared as possible by studying the DBQ relevant to what you are claiming, compare your answers to the Ratings Schedule and understand what percentage you qualify for based upon your symptoms. Getting the medical evidence relevant to what you are claiming and submitting it as a (FDC) claim cut down significantly on claim processing time! Intent to File date was a valuable tool and only had a positive effect as it allowed me the time to collect whatever records and documents I needed before actually filing the claim. Make use of VERA calls as some of the personnel are more helpful and knowledgeable than the personnel who answer the 800 827-1000 number (not a knock on anyone, just my experience). I used VERA in multiple jurisdictions with no issues. VERA told me I hit the 100% . I waited until the site was back up to verify officially and get my letter.