Navigating the Gauntlet of the VA
Workshops:
“Understanding Your VA Benefits”
“How to File Claims Effectively”
“Understanding VA Disability Math”
As Veterans, whether we have recently acquired our DD214 or we have a copy collecting dust in our “I-Love-Me” folders, navigating the VA claims process is scary and unfamiliar. We are here to help you understand what it is you are doing, when would be the right time for you to start, and what the process will entail.
Electronic Code Of Federal Regulations - Chapter 38
If you're unfamiliar with the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR), specifically Title 38, Part 4, it's essential to become acquainted with it.
This publicly accessible document outlines how the Department of Veterans Affairs evaluates service-connected conditions. It details the criteria and corresponding disability ratings based on specific diagnoses and symptoms. Understanding this “guide” can help you better navigate the claims process and advocate for the benefits you've earned.
What if I didnt go to sickcall or medical for my problems?
It’s a common concern. In the military, many of us were conditioned to avoid medical unless it involved loss of life, limb, or eyesight. This mindset spans across branches and career fields — you're far from alone. Most veterans we speak with share the same hesitation.
But here’s the truth: your experiences still matter, and they can still be documented.
Start gathering your medical records — not just from military treatment facilities, but from TriCare, civilian ERs, urgent care visits, and any clinics or hospitals you saw while stationed in different states. These outside providers often hold critical documentation that can support your VA claim, even if you didn’t go through military channels at the time.
How do we know this?
Because we’ve lived it. We’re veterans ourselves — we’ve run the gauntlet and, eventually, made it through.
Speaking from personal experience (Raquel here), I received my TAP briefing and my DD214, only to be thrown into the civilian world completely unprepared. I was a single mother with a modest job lined up to start this new civilian lifestyle, but nothing could have prepared me for the complexity of the VA claims process. Sure, they mention it in TAP, and maybe you’ve heard bits and pieces from buddies who’ve already transitioned. But actually filing a claim and navigating the system on your own? That’s a whole different battle.
The places I turned to for help were either:
Uninformed about the actual process
Charging $400 upfront, plus thousands more if they ‘helped’ me secure benefits — up to $9,000 if I was awarded 100%
Or just flat-out wrong in their guidance
So I did what I knew how to do — I learned it myself. I was an Admin troop for years; regulations were my daily bread and butter. I may not have the process perfected nor do I know everything about this but I do have experience from start to finish. Now I’m here to share what I’ve learned, so you don’t have to go through it alone. If my story can help you avoid the same pitfalls and get the support you’ve earned, then it’s worth telling.
Why Can’t We Help You File Your Claim Directly?
We get this question a lot:
“Why can’t you help me organize my claim and walk me through the process?”
Let us be fully transparent.
Under 38 CFR §14.627, only VA-accredited representatives, attorneys, or claims agents are legally authorized to assist veterans in the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of claims for VA benefits. This includes:
Giving specific advice on an individual claim
Filling out forms or submitting documentation on someone’s behalf
Charging fees for any part of the initial claims process [www.ecfr.gov]
These rules are in place to protect veterans from misinformation, exploitation, and predatory practices by unaccredited individuals or companies.
What We Can Do — And Proudly Will:
- Share our stories and lessons learned
- Educate you about how the VA system works
- Point you to official resources like VA.gov and the eCFR
- Host workshops or panels that explain the general processes
- Refer you to accredited VSOs, attorneys, or claims agents who can legally assist you
As long as we don’t give individualized advice or handle claims directly, we are operating within federal law — and still doing everything we can to support you.
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How Can You Support Us and This Community?
We’re building something real — a space where veterans and first responders can reconnect, recharge, and get the support they deserve. If you believe in this mission, here’s how you can help:
💬 Spread the Word
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Help us reach veterans, first responders, and supporters who may benefit or want to get involved.
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