Do I need to file a DD Form 293 after getting a disability rating and proving my injury was service connected?

SPC Kole Cordier — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 15:43:40 -0400

I recently received a disability rating from the VA because I had enough evidence to show my injury was service connected and not EPTS CH-15 as stated in my separation. They gave me a uncharacterized discharge because I was not in long enough apparently and they gave EPTS. Now that I have a rating and proof it was not EPTS should I file a 293 in order to ensure I can apply for other benefits such as 9/11 GI Bill and VA loan or what? Someone also mentioned to me a 149.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 16 at 2020 3:59 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 15:59:16 -0400

What % do you have?

Response by LTC Mark Ensign made Jul 16 at 2020 9:17 PM

LTC Mark Ensign — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 21:17:32 -0400

I’d recommend contacting a veterans service organization (Am Legion, VFW, DAV) for assistance. I don’t know for sure myself if you’d qualify for GI Bill or not, but they can guide you through navigating the process of finding out.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2020 10:41 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 22:41:56 -0400

Here's the issue, your discharge says EPTS. You signed the dotted line agreeing to the discharge and the category of discharge. I wouldn't push your luck in receiving benefits because A) you don't qualify for the GI Bill as you did not serve a 90 days out of IET and B) your discharge still says EPTS.

If you go pushing your luck for more, the VA will likely see what your discharge was and take back any disability previously awarded. You would need the Army to change it, which they aren't going to do because you agreed that the injury EPTS.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Jul 17 at 2020 7:30 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 07:30:41 -0400

I would recommend speaking to a VSO about it.

If you have a legitimate VA disability rating that changes things.