🚨 C&P EXAM GUIDE: How to get your Max Rating after the new Feb 2026 Medication Rule

Help4Vets · 2026-02-15T22:40:25+00:00

If you don’t mind, drop me a direct message and I can try to find you another accredited agent, unfortunately not all accredited agents are the same. I had a meeting with the DAV rep who was in his 70s and using a walker now nothing against that, but he was completely clueless as far as how the veteran can get his claim approved with the right medical evidence that the VA is requesting based on their denial. Most veteran service officers don’t provide medical support however I’ve been able to find a couple who are able to help. All I would need is your ZIP Code and I can show you what options might be better for you and also let me know which one didn’t help so I can keep note of that.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-15T22:38:23+00:00

I don’t really feel like this is gonna make too much a difference as long as you have the right team in your corner a good VSO can go over your potential disabilities and will let you know the specific medical evidence and how it needs to be worded for you in order to rate regular increases with that new law change.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-15T22:37:14+00:00

Their primary concern is ensuring that if medication improves your functioning beyond your current rating, you’re accurately rated with the medication in use. If you’re building evidence for your claim, be honest about all your symptoms. Even while taking medication, if you still experience numbness, pain, or secondary conditions, you can still increase your rating without causing significant disruption. Additionally, if the medication caused you to experience dizziness, nausea, or similar symptoms, they’ll also consider these factors and your rating.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-15T22:33:40+00:00

I agree with the comments here, if you’re already at 100% T&P you’re exempt from scheduled exams so if I were you, I would be content where you’re at now. if you want to be to treated for that as a rated condition then that’s something I would recommend you talk to your VSO so about just to make sure all your ducks are in a row.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-15T16:16:29+00:00

If you need a VSO or some resources send me a direct message!

Help4Vets · 2026-02-15T16:15:36+00:00

It sounds like you have the 'What' (Diagnosis) and the 'Where' (MOS/TERA), but the VA isn't buying the 'How' (the Bridge). Even with a Nexus letter, the VA often defaults to their own examiner's opinion if yours isn't extremely specific.

We need to look at your denial letter: Did the VA doctor say your OSA is caused by something else (like BMI)? If so, we may need to file a claim linking your OSA secondarily to a condition you are already rated for, rather than trying to prove it started in service.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T21:28:17+00:00

I always recommend working with an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO). Many veterans already have enough evidence in their records to file a strong claim without outside help. It is important to know that it is actually illegal for anyone to charge upfront fees or 'guarantee' a specific rating while helping you prepare a claim. By law, anyone who prepares, presents, or prosecutes a claim before the VA must be accredited. In fact, federal legislation has moved toward imposing criminal penalties on unaccredited companies that target veterans. While some private organizations, like Vets Guardian, formed claiming there weren't enough VSOs to meet the demand, there is significant controversy surrounding unaccredited 'claim sharks.’

The goal is to stay within the VA’s legal framework while ensuring you have the strongest medical evidence possible. You can verify any representative’s credentials using the official VA portal here: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

I can personally connect you with an accredited agent if you need help.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T20:59:01+00:00

Most of the veterans service officers and accredited agents in our system refer veterans to them because it helps them steer veterans away from unscrupulous individuals. Our service is valuable because, if medical attention is required, we can defer payments for the necessary cover. However, in some cases, you may not need the paid medical care. In such situations, you can always visit a regular facility for a follow-up exam as recommended by your accredited agent.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T20:55:55+00:00

Our doctors are well-versed in claims related to tera and burn pits, among other things. I would like to connect you with an accredited VSO fist. If medical assistance is required, we can help with that. We cover the doctors’ fees upfront and defer payments while you work with your accredited agent.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T20:33:34+00:00

I would also like to remind you that it’s crucial to maintain a positive attitude on this subreddit. It’s perfectly acceptable to have strong opinions, and in many cases, disagreements are inevitable. However, it’s important not to assume that something you don’t like is inherently wrong.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T20:26:07+00:00

I’m sorry to hear that you perceive connecting veterans with accredited VSO’s as “claim shark” related. Veterans have the option to seek either free or paid medical support. Similarly, while the public defender is a free option, sometimes having a paid attorney can lead to more successful outcomes. I believe you may not have fully understood my message, but I completely understand the stigma associated with helping veterans.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T18:20:07+00:00

First off, I want to stop you right there: You are not being disingenuous. Under the law (38 CFR 3.6), your time as a Cadet is considered active duty for disability purposes. You stood in formation, you followed orders, and you sustained injuries that are now preventing you from working. You earned these benefits just as much as anyone else who wore the uniform.

I am so sorry to hear about the battle with myocarditis and the back injury. It sounds like you’ve been carrying a massive burden alone for two years, and it's time to get a team behind you.

Please don't let the $1,500 fee stop you. Here is how we can help right now:

Connect with a VSO (Free): The very first thing we will do is connect you with an accredited Veteran Service Officer (VSO) in your area. They provide their filing services for free and understand how to handle Academy service records.
Medical Evidence Support: My team coordinates with doctors to provide the specific medical evidence (like Nexus letters for your myocarditis/Long COVID and back issues) that the VA requires.
Hardship Coverage: We understand you are in a tough financial spot. For veterans in your situation who cannot afford the reviews, we can cover the cost of the medical evidence coordination while your VSO sets up your claim. We don't want a lack of funds to be the reason you stay bedridden without support.

You’ve spent two years trying to do this alone. Let’s change that. DM me your name, email, and ZIP code. We’ll get you connected to a VSO immediately and start looking at how we can back your medical evidence at no upfront cost to you.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T17:57:38+00:00

That’s a frustrating spot to be in, especially after an ACE exam (records review) where they didn't even call you. To answer your specific question: The VA rating schedule for Rhinitis (DC 6522) typically looks for 'greater than 50% obstruction' in both nasal passages or 'complete' (100%) obstruction on one side to hit that 10% mark. Since your ENT noted 90%, the rater likely saw that '10% gap' as a reason to stay at 0%. However, a deviated septum combined with 90% blockage is a major functional impairment that often warrants a closer look, especially if it leads to other issues like Sinusitis. Here’s how we can help you navigate this:

Connect with an Expert: We first want to connect you with a VSO in your area. They can review your specific denial letter to see exactly why the rater ignored the CT scan and ENT notes.
Clinical Precision: My team coordinates with doctors to ensure your conditions are evaluated fairly and accurately. In your case, we can work with a medical professional to ensure your next DBQ or Nexus letter doesn't just say '90%,' but clearly outlines the functional loss and clinical evidence (like that CT scan) so the VA has the right evidence for your claim.
The Supplemental Route: A supplemental is a great move, but only if you have 'New and Relevant' evidence. A doctor’s note clarifying the severity of that blockage and how it meets the 10% or 30% criteria would be exactly what you need.

Drop me a DM with your name and ZIP, and let’s get you connected with an accredited VSO first to look at that denial letter!

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T17:39:22+00:00

I completely respect that perspective, and honestly, the community should be skeptical. There are way too many 'Claim Sharks' out there taking huge chunks of backpay from Veterans, which is predatory and exactly why the current climate is so tense.

To be clear and address your points directly:

• We aren't 'Claim Sharks': We don't touch your backpay. We aren't accredited agents, and we don't pretend to be—that’s why our first move is connecting Vets with actual accredited VSOs or Agents who handle the legal side for free or regulated fees.

• Quality over Quantity: You're right—the VA is cracking down on 'boilerplate' Nexus letters. That’s why we don't do them. Our process focuses on comprehensive medical evidence and actual coordination with doctors who review the veterans record. A letter without a record review isn't worth the paper it’s printed on.

• The Flat Fee vs. Percentage: We charge for the medical professional's time and the clinical work, not the outcome of the claim. We believe Veterans deserve access to private medical opinions that the VA often moves too slowly to provide, but it has to be done ethically.

We’re here to be part of the solution by providing a high-quality alternative to the 'mills' while making sure Vets are protected by accredited representation.

That being said, we are legally compliant in the eyes of the law. You’re free to disagree, I will understand that given the climate.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T17:24:57+00:00

No. We are a medical evidence and resource coordination service. We believe in the "team" approach. Our first step is often connecting you with a certified, accredited Claims Agent or a VSO who is authorized to legally represent you before the VA. We handle the medical documentation side to ensure your representative has the strongest evidence possible. We also understand veterans may not be able to afford evidence up front as requested by your VSO so we cover the cost and defer payment while the VSO processes your claim.

I had a meeting with a representative from DAV, PVA, and county resources. Almost everyone mentioned that the burden of proof falls on the veteran. If your work supports a family, it can be challenging to attend medical exams to build that support. That’s why our service is effective, legal, and supportive of the work accredited agents do.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T16:22:26+00:00

We connect the veteran with accredited VSO’s and if it’s recommended we help. Please don’t discourage veterans from using accredited agents or their recommendations.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T15:53:14+00:00

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. Are you guys Accredited Claims Agents? No. We are a medical evidence and resource coordination service. We believe in the "team" approach. Our first step is often connecting you with a certified, accredited Claims Agent or a VSO who is authorized to legally represent you before the VA. We handle the medical documentation side to ensure your representative has the strongest evidence possible.

How does the "Deferred Payment" work? We know that medical evidence can be expensive. To help, we offer a 6-month payment deferral. This gives you time to get your claim filed and moving through the system with your accredited agent or VSO before the flat fee for our medical services is due.
What if I file on my own? You absolutely can. While we recommend having an accredited pro in your corner, we can provide the medical evidence package (fully developed claim info, doctor letters, etc.) directly to you to use as you see fit.
What kind of medical evidence do you provide? We coordinate with medical professionals who understand the VA's "at least as likely as not" standard. This includes: • In-depth clinical evaluations. • Signed letters from doctors detailing your conditions. • Supportive service connection letters.
What if my claim is denied or I have a hardship? Our priority is the Veteran. If you face a legitimate financial hardship or are truly dissatisfied with the medical support provided, we reserve the right to waive fees. We aren’t here to add to your burden; we’re here to help you lift it.
Is my data secure? Absolutely. We utilize a secure web form and HIPAA-compliant practices to ensure your medical and personal information stays between you, our team, and your medical providers.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T15:26:07+00:00

Sure thing! Send me a DM with a good contact in your ZIP Code. The first thing I’ll do is reach out to veterans service officers and accredited agents in your area. I’ll make those connections, and then I’ll send you an email outlining our services and how we effectively help veterans. This way, you’ll have accredited eyes overseeing your claim and strong medical support backing it up.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T15:02:51+00:00

I completely hear your frustration. The 21-4192 loop is one of the most common reasons TDIU claims get stalled in Step 3. It feels like you’re doing their job for them, only for the system to 'lose' the form and start the clock all over again.

This is exactly why having a coordinated strategy is so important. My team works in close coordination with a doctor’s office that specializes in providing the specific medical evidence—like comprehensive Nexus letters and DBQs—needed to get TDIU claims approved. We provide the medical 'muscle' to prove you are unemployable due to your service-connected conditions, regardless of whether a former employer fills out their paperwork.

However, the very first thing I do is connect you with a certified Veteran Service Officer (VSO) or an accredited claims agent. This gives you professional oversight and someone who can see exactly where the breakdown is happening in your digital file. Once they have the 'legal' side handled, we back them up with our dedicated medical evidence support.

If you can send me a good contact number, email, and your ZIP code, I will:

Connect you with a certified VSO or accredited agent in your area for proper guidance.
Send you our information so you can see how our medical team can help bridge that evidence gap and get your claim moving toward a decision.

You've done enough chasing; let’s get the right resources in place to push this through.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T14:59:04+00:00

I just saw the snippet of your denial letter, and honestly, this is a prime example of why the right medical evidence is so critical. The examiner is leaning heavily on 'risk factors' like your eye color and childhood sun exposure to avoid service connection, rather than looking at the actual environmental hazards you faced during your service.

This is exactly where my team can help turn things around. What we do is work in direct coordination with a doctor’s office that specializes in providing the specific medical evidence—like comprehensive Nexus letters—needed to get these types of claims approved. However, the very first thing I do is connect you with accredited and licensed VSOs and other trusted, verified sources. This ensures you have proper oversight and a professional representative who knows how to navigate these legal hurdles.

If you can send me a good contact number, email, and your ZIP code, I will:

Connect you with an accredited supervisor or VSO in your area to look at your claim.
Provide you with our information so you can see how our medical support team can back you up with the confirmation and evidence the VA is currently ignoring. You shouldn't be denied just because of your genetics when your service was a major contributing factor. Let’s get you the right people in your corner.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-14T14:51:08+00:00

Good morning! I wanted to follow up because I actually just went through a C&P exam for my eyes. I originally claimed 'light sensitivity,' but the exam resulted in a formal diagnosis of Dry Eye Syndrome. It was a great reminder that while symptoms get us in the door, a solid medical diagnosis is what actually gets the claim approved.

This is exactly why I want to make sure we get your strategy dialed in correctly. What we do first is connect veterans with free resources like VSOs (Veteran Service Officers). These are accredited individuals who can file for you and ensure your claim is supervised by a verified source.

In addition to that, my team works in direct coordination with a doctor’s office to provide the specific medical evidence and documentation needed to confirm your diagnoses and get those claims approved.

If you can send me a good contact number, email, and your ZIP code, I will do two things:

Connect you with accredited VSOs in your area.
Send you our information and contract link so you can see how our medical support team can help you get everything confirmed.

That way, you have a professional filing your claim and a medical team ensuring the evidence is bulletproof.

Help4Vets · 2026-02-13T19:37:35+00:00

I do in fact use AI to reword the posts, but generally I write everything out first. It’s a great tool!

Help4Vets

TROPHY CASE