Follow Pete53's advise. Here is what happened with me. Got fired 10/2008, went to VAMC and got paperwork to apply for health care. In 1/2009 my primary referred me to mental health for PTSD exam; was diagnosed with severe PTSD GAF 43. Went on a regimen of drugs and group therapy, did the CPT 12 week thing. Filed for PTSD, hearing loss and tinnitus in 2/2009, had C&P for both in 6/2009. 02/2010 received award retro to filing date of 70% PTSD, 10% earing loss and 10% tinnitus for total of 80% (VA math); BUT the VA also suggested I file for TDIU as I didn't meet criteria for 100% PTSD but I was clearly unemployable accoding to my psych Dr. So I filed the the TDIU claim in 03/2009, had 2nd C&P for PTD. February of this year I was rated 100% PTSD P&T and 30% hearing loss; TDIU awarded back to 02/2009. No more exams or C&P's will be required. Now the kicker, I was drawing SSR starting in 11/2008 because I knew I was not suitable for employment, my initial income based classification was CAT 5 based on my SSR and my spouses SSR & Pension. They knew it all up front. From the very 1st appointment with the shrink my records starting reflecting severe to chronic PTSD not suitible for employment. Then they tried the incompetentcy game with me, didn't work, the Dr gave me a written and signed statement that I was not suitable for employment but could manage my affairs, copy to me, to DAV, original to VARO certified return receipt. Don't give up ever! The brother and sister veterans that are members of this wonderful site helped me and they will also help you. Do what they suggest and keep copies of everything!! Good Luck!