After trying to work with the Scranton VA office to increase my service-connected disability, would I be better off doing everything online?

2020-10-17T20:02:32-04:00

I have been trying since January 2020 to arrange an appointment for an increase in my service connected back problems. I had an appointment on January 29th in the Scranton office and no one showed up for the interview. I rescheduled for March 25th and it was cancelled due to the pandemic. I finally got in touch with Beth from the American legion in august. She told me to get in touch with her on Sept 15th and we could schedule something then. I called got no response, I called 3 more times left messages and still no response.
Would I be better off doing everything on line. Just need to hear different opinions on what path I should take. I did discuss this with my doctor and he agreed I should try for the increase and wrote me a nexus letter.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2020 1:09 AM

2020-10-18T01:09:01-04:00

You could try a VSO from another veterans organization. But you do have the option of completing everything yourself and see what happens. Can always go to a VSO to help with an appeal if need be if they do don’t rule in your favor.

Response by SPC Nancy Greene made Oct 18 at 2020 1:26 AM

2020-10-18T01:26:59-04:00

Have you tried contacting your Congressman? Sometimes a Congressional investigation can be helpful.
(I filed my own paperwork because I had all pertinent medical documentation and I was able to have two additional conditions successfully rated as service-connected)
Best of luck CPL James Howley

Response by SPC James Neidig made Oct 18 at 2020 1:49 AM

2020-10-18T01:49:34-04:00

Contact the PA department of military and veterans affairs, they should have a office in your county, i live down here in Franklin county and we have one here, they helped me get my increase from 50 to 100 percent

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Oct 18 at 2020 7:59 PM

2020-10-18T19:59:21-04:00

Why not enlist the DAV/VFW/AM Legion for help- they deal with them all the time.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2020 3:37 PM

2020-10-19T15:37:40-04:00

Not sure what you mean by working with VA office to increase claim. You have to make a claim in order to be rated for an increase. The easiest way to claim is through eBenefits. I have only ever claimed via eBenefits. An increase is easier Seeing you are already rated for a service connected disability. You will claim for example bi lateral Sciatica secondary to your existing Lumbar rating. Then you would up load your medical records showing the diagnosis and treatment of the secondary issue. Follow the prompts.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2020 8:40 AM

2020-10-20T08:40:38-04:00

https://www.lackawannacounty.org/index.php/departmentsagencies/human-services/veterans-affairs
CPL Howley,
As a former Scrantonian I understand your plight...
I have attached the link to the Lackawanna County Veterans’ Affairs Office.
Near the bottom of the website are the "Administrative Contacts" to include the County's VSO who should be able to assist you.
If you are looking to increase or establish a service connected disability you should request a copy of your VA Claims Folder (C-File) so that your VSO can review it with you.
Good luck!
CPT (Ret) Egg

Veteran’s Affairs « Lackawanna County

Residents of Lackawanna County are appreciative of the service of their veterans, for without them we would not have our freedom.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2020 8:44 AM

2020-10-20T08:44:40-04:00

Did you do your intent to file to get the clock started on your claim?
That can be done online, over the phone or in person.
Once you've done your intent to file you have essentially 365 days to complete and submit your claim.
A VSO with access to the VA's system is the best option since everything is submitted electronically as opposed to via snail mail which can and sometimes does get lost.

Response by 1LT Voyle Smith made Oct 20 at 2020 9:30 AM

2020-10-20T09:30:08-04:00

Suggest you discuss the issue with a counselor at your local chapter of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) who are frequently colocated with your local VA office. That’s what I did, about ten years ago. Those folks were a huge help to me. There’s no charge for their services and they don’t receive compensation from anyone. You merely sign a letter designating them as your representative in all matters dealing with the VA.