Articles
Browse published Navigating VA articles, with the newest material listed first.
Search Navigating VA
Search looks across the site by keyword; it does not filter the article list below.
Latest articles
-
You Don’t Feel Disabled. The VA May Disagree.
Read article: You Don’t Feel Disabled. The VA May Disagree.Most veterans who never file a VA claim have one thing in common. They feel fine. Many veterans I speak with say the same thing at first. They are working, staying active, and handling life.…
-
Why Many Veterans Think They Don’t Qualify for a Mental Health Rating (But Do)
Read article: Why Many Veterans Think They Don’t Qualify for a Mental Health Rating (But Do)A lot of veterans don’t have a VA mental health rating—not because the symptoms aren’t there, but because they never think they qualify. Why? Because they are: Still working. Still functioning. Still getting through the…
-
The Law Says the VA Should Favor Veterans. So Why Does the System Often Feel Adversarial?
Read article: The Law Says the VA Should Favor Veterans. So Why Does the System Often Feel Adversarial?Federal law governing the Department of Veterans Affairs was designed with a clear principle in mind. When evidence is uncertain, the system is supposed to favor the veteran. Courts have repeatedly recognized this pro-veteran structure.…
-
With AI Reviewing 15 Years of DBQs, a Little-Known VA Directive Matters More Than Ever
Read article: With AI Reviewing 15 Years of DBQs, a Little-Known VA Directive Matters More Than EverRecent reporting indicates the Department of Veterans Affairs may begin using artificial intelligence tools to review large numbers of Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) submitted in disability claims. According to reporting on testimony before a House…
-
“Don’t Poke the Bear”: Fact or Myth in VA Disability Claims?
Read article: “Don’t Poke the Bear”: Fact or Myth in VA Disability Claims?Have you ever heard another veteran say: “Don’t poke the bear.” The phrase appears constantly in veteran communities. It is usually offered as friendly advice: if you already have a VA disability rating, be careful…
-
Backlog Pressure: Are VA Decisions Keeping Pace With the Law?
Read article: Backlog Pressure: Are VA Decisions Keeping Pace With the Law?This raises an important question that goes beyond any individual claim: If claims are moving faster, are VA decisions still providing the explanations required by law? Federal law does not simply require the VA to…
-
Worried About VA AI Fraud Crackdowns on Ratings? Start With Your VA Medical Record.
Read article: Worried About VA AI Fraud Crackdowns on Ratings? Start With Your VA Medical Record.The VA disability compensation system serves millions of veterans and represents one of the largest federal benefits programs in the country. In recent years, oversight reports, modernization initiatives, and artificial intelligence tools have drawn increased…
-
Who Are Patient Advocates Really Advocating For?
Read article: Who Are Patient Advocates Really Advocating For?Many Veterans receive outstanding care within the VA system, and many Patient Advocates work diligently to resolve routine problems. In straightforward cases, the system functions as intended. Appointments are rescheduled, communication gaps are corrected, and…
-
VA Disability Ratings Are Not About Whether You Can Work
Read article: VA Disability Ratings Are Not About Whether You Can WorkMany Veterans assume they cannot qualify for VA disability if they are still working. This article explains what VA disability ratings actually measure under federal law and why schedular ratings are not based on employability.