United States Department of Veterans Affairs

Common Mistakes

 


VA Form 21-526


A few of the most common mistakes are:

  1. Missing signature.
  2. Not responding to VA's request for additional information.
  3. Not responding timely to VA's request for additional information.
  4. Missing or incomplete information.
  5. No medical records or missing medical records.
    1. Service Medical Records.  It is better if you have your medical records, otherwise the VA will obtain them.
    2. Other Medical Records.  Any medical records to substantiate any and all treatment by private doctors and hospitals.
  6. Missing DD 214.  Form can be requested online from the National Personnel Records Center.
It is important that you review your entire claim form and timely attend any VA scheduled medical examination as part of your claim.  Any errors or failure to go to appointments may delay the processing of your claim.  Your assistance with eliminating these common errors will result in more timely processing of your claim for compensation or pension.

VA requirements for what entitles you to potential medical coverage and cash payments are at:
38 CFR Book C-Schedule for Rating Disabilities

Rules regarding how VA decides your claim are at:  38 CFR Book B-Adjudication 


For further assistance with preparing your claim, please call (800) 827-1000, contact your Veteran Service Organization, or contact your County's Veteran Service Officer.  These services are free of change.  You should not be charged for any assistance provided and are warned to avoid any agency or organization that requests payment to expedite or assist with your VA claim.

VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS AT THE 

 OAKLAND REGIONAL OFFICE

SERVICE ORGANIZATION 

PHONE 

 American Legion

510-286-1235

 AMVETS

510-286-0851

California Department of Veterans Affairs

510-286-0627

Disabled American Veterans

510-834-2921

Military Order of the Purple Heart

510-834-0612

 Paralyzed Veterans of America

510-637-1241

 Veterans of Foreign Wars

510-637-1236



Link to Directory of Veteran Service Organizations

Link to Directory of PTSD Stressor Verification Internet Sites
 
Link to California Association of County Veterans Service Officers