Editing Veterans Benefits (section)

== What Steps Should Veterans Take to File a Claim? ==

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! colspan="5" style="background:#1a5276; color:white; padding:12px; text-align:center; border-radius:8px 8px 0 0;" | 🛡️ VA Claim Filing Timeline
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'''Step 1'''<br/>
<span style="font-size:0.95em;">Intent to File</span><br/>
<span style="font-size:0.85em; color:#666;">Day 1 (TODAY)</span>
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'''Step 2'''<br/>
<span style="font-size:0.95em;">Gather Documents</span><br/>
<span style="font-size:0.85em; color:#666;">Days 1-30</span>
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'''Step 3'''<br/>
<span style="font-size:0.95em;">Submit Claim</span><br/>
<span style="font-size:0.85em; color:#666;">Day 30-60</span>
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'''Step 4'''<br/>
<span style="font-size:0.95em;">C&P Exam</span><br/>
<span style="font-size:0.85em; color:#666;">Day 60-90</span>
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'''Step 5'''<br/>
<span style="font-size:0.95em;">Benefits Start</span><br/>
<span style="font-size:0.85em; color:#666;">Day 45-95</span>
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=== Immediate Actions (Today) ===

# '''File Intent to File''' at VA.gov or call 1-800-827-1000
# '''Request medical records''' from all treating physicians
# '''Contact Veterans Service Organization''' for free assistance
# '''Begin exposure timeline''' listing all ships and duties

=== Within 30 Days ===

# '''Obtain nexus letter''' from treating physician
# '''Gather service records''' through eVetrecs or archives
# '''Contact shipmates''' for [https://www.mesotheliomalawyercenter.org/veterans/navy/ buddy statements]
# '''Schedule VA examination''' when requested

=== Within 60 Days ===

# '''Submit complete claim''' as Fully Developed
# '''File trust fund claims''' with qualifying trusts
# '''Consult mesothelioma attorney''' for civil options through [https://dandell.com/ Danziger & De Llano]
# '''Apply for additional benefits''' (SSDI, state programs)

{| style="width:100%; background:#f8d7da; border:1px solid #dc3545; border-left:5px solid #dc3545; border-radius:4px; margin:1em 0;"
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| style="padding:15px; color:#721c24;" | '''⛔ Common Mistakes to Avoid:''' Missing Intent to File deadline loses months of retroactive pay. Incomplete medical evidence causes claim deferrals. No nexus letter results in denial for lack of service connection. Not claiming SMC leaves thousands unclaimed.
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=== How Can Veterans Request Expedited Processing? ===

'''Priority Processing Groups:'''
* Terminal illness (including mesothelioma)
* Homeless veterans
* Age 85 or older
* Extreme financial hardship
* Medal of Honor recipients
* Former POWs
* Purple Heart recipients

Request expedited processing by calling 1-800-827-1000, submitting statement of terminal illness, providing medical documentation, and following up weekly on status. '''Terminal illness claims average 45 days''' versus standard 94.8 days.

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