The Veterans of Foreign Wars has named improving the VA claims system a top legislative priority in 2010.
Following a federal investigation of the VA in March 2009, the VA’s Inspector General released a report stating that one-fourth of files have errors, or, in other words, 200,000 files may be incorrect. In addition, the typical wait time for a claims decision is six months to a year. Then, if the veteran disagrees with the decision, an appeal could take as much as four years or more.
A recent 60 Minutes report raised public awareness of veterans’ frustrations with the VA claims process.
“We envision a day when a veteran gets their claim done correctly the first time within a reasonable timeframe,” said Eric Hilleman, Director, VFW Legislative Service. “We are working with the VA and Congress to find constructive ways to address the shortcomings of the system.
“The VFW believes that automation of processes, accountability for decision-making, and consistent training of VA staff are the keys to improving the quality and timeliness of claims,” said Hilleman. “We adamantly support the use of Congressional oversight authority to ensure true leadership at the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA).”
"The VFW is the VA's strongest ally in Congress and sometimes its loudest critic, but we recognize that only by working together will the claims backlog problem be solved," said Thomas J. Tradewell, Sr., VFW National Commander.
"We are a willing partner in helping to find a permanent solution so that our government can better care for those who have worn the uniform."
If you need help filing for VA benefits, find a VFW-trained service officer near you at www.vfw.org/vetservice. Last year alone, VFW helped almost 95,000 veterans to recoup more than $1.2 billion in earned compensation and pension. |
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