HitemStraight

Thanks Asknod, that sets is straight pretty much .... I think ;) Don't quite understand why the VA doesn't have some additional SMC ratings for guys (or Gals) who have multiple disabilities and ratings. I have one 100% ratings and numerous other ratings as well, many of which are connected to, and secondary to my 100% rating (I do receive SMC-S). My total VA ratings to date are 430% for multiple conditions. The highest (other than my 100%) is 70%, and I believe that might get an increase to 100% shortly. That is why I generated the question in this post. My most recent diagnosis could worsen to the point where I most likely will need permanent Aid & Attendance should that happen (hopefully, that is years away). I understand and fully expect veterans with limbs missing and loss of eyesight etc, to receive the highest ratings and compensation possible. They surely deserve it, no doubt. I am not questioning that. However, some of us are suffering from debilitating diseases and conditions that affect our daily lives as well, and may very well wind up being fatal. We may be getting a percentage rating for them (above the 100% level), but in the grand scheme of things, we really are not being compensated for them. I receive monetary compensation for 160% of my overall ratings (SMC-S). That leaves 270% remaining that basically I am not receiving monetary compensation for. I can tell you, I suffer with that 270% daily, just as much as the 160%. As I sit here typing this, my hands are trembling from a neurological condition, and I can hardly hit the correct keys. I have a rating for this condition (one of the ratings above my initial 100% rating), but I am not really receiving any monetary compensation for it. It's just a rating on paper, period. There should be an SMC sub-section that addresses these higher percentage ratings accordingly. I don't see this happening anytime soon, but, just saying .... Some veterans are probably reading this and say: 'this guy should be happy and content with what he's getting'. I'm grateful for the VA compensation I am receiving. But if you think I should 'be content' with what I am receiving, then you are missing the point of this post !!!!

Thanks Buck, I'll check out the link ....

Does anyone know if there is a SMC sub-category for two separate 100% ratings. I am aware of SMC-S for 100% plus 60%. Is there a SMC category/rating for 100% plus 100% single independent ratings ?

Good deal - Congrats !

Does anyone know how the VA views PDRL (Permanent Disability Retirement) ratings when rendering a rating decision for VA Compensation. ex: If removed from TDRL and placed on PDRL with a 100% disability rating, does VA consider the 100% permanent retirement disability rating in their decision for a VA comp rating?

I recently was awarded a rating and effective date back to when I was receiving retired pay. The VA computed the difference between the retired pay and the VA Comp rates back then, and paid me the difference in the retro award. Don't know it that is an exact situation as yours, but it sounds similar. Hope that helps ....

Thank you Vync..... Just what I was looking for !

Requested the c-file in Sep, 2015 and received on July 7, 2016 (10 months). Found evidence which they never considered in my claim. Was past the one year mark, so I'm requesting to re-open with new and material evidence. The beat continues ....

Does anyone know where to locate SMC historical tables for viewing and/or download, back to 1980, if they exist ?

Separate and distinct means separate body systems, or body parts. I received SMC-S for two hip replacements secondary to 100% back condition. The hips are separate body parts from the back (spine), even though the hip arthritic condition was related to, or secondary to the back arthritic condition ....

I appointed DAV my POA back in 1971 when I filed my first claim. I have never used them for anything since. On my recent decided claim, I filed a CUE and Reconsideration myself. Won both. The only contact with the DAV was the summary decision letters they sent me. Another time I went to see local a VSO. After waiting 2 hours, he gave me the wrong info and made me feel like an ass. Basically told me I was wasting my time. The question I asked regarded the CUE I won for SMC- S. Tried to call them once to ask another question and they never returned the phone call. So I don't have much faith in them. Did I say WORTHLESS !! My opinion. Not to take away from those who have used one successfully, though, I've just had bad experience. I'm sure there are good one's ! Your call ....

Glad you got through it Buck. Good luck with the decision !

I had my CUE decided in less than 2 weeks. Sent directly to VARO ....

Congrats - good deal for you !!

I think you have a good claim, good luck. FYI - I received an award retro to 1980 via a Reconsideration Request for ulcerative- colitis. The past recs in 1980 indicated 'probable ulcerative-colitis. I did not get a formal diagnosis until 2001. Again, good luck ....

I would ask the examiner if the VARO made them available to him/her. If not let him/her know you have them and give to them. Have extra copies available to give them. I wouldn't think they would reject reviewing them !!

If you were injured in service and you currently have diagnosis (arthritis), and doc relates injury to arthritis, you should be good for a sc rating.The range of motion would help determine disability percent ultimately awarded.

If you have the recs, take them. What can this hurt. If you have a briefcase or file box, put you recs in and take with you. I had a C&P for PTSD and the examiner had no mental health recs for me from when I was treated for many years at VAMC in another state. None zilch !! She made the comment that I was never treated at a VA before. Basically called me a liar, and her report reflected it. I had to file a Request for Reconsideration and submit the recs with it. I won an earlier effective date and higher percentage. Don't take for granted that they will have any of your recs. If you have them, take them !!!!

Have not had much luck with the DAV VSO's. They have either given false information, or simply don't return phone calls. I work my own claims now, but would not suggest for everyone. Get the help if you need it to process the claim.

Good deal !

Certified, return receipt is fine, however, I think Priority Mail envelope with signature required is much better. You can do label online and print out with tracking information. Also, can get regular updates via email every step of delivery. The final delivery email will let you print the date, time, name and signature of person who signed. Delivered in two days !! Total cost < $7.50 ..... In my opinion, better than certified, rr.

Buck - I don't think it is too much if it bolsters your claim. Just be careful not to be redundant. As far as the cost - Send in via Priority Mail Flat Rate envelope. There is no limit on number of pages or weight. You can generate on USPS.com for $5.05 ....It is trackable and you can get delivery updates by email. Gets delivered in two days. I send in all my claims and additional paperwork that way.

Broncovet is correct ..... CUE must be a clear error in interpreting the law. I won my CUE in two weeks time. It was a clear error in that they did not apply the bilateral factor which made a big change in the outcome. I kept the actual CUE claim to four pages plus copies of evidence (exhibits) supporting the error in the claim. Good luck !!

It is frustrating. Hang with it, as it will payoff in the end. Good luck !!

WWII vets are leaving us way too quickly .... May your Grandpa be in peace with the Lord !!