100% Because Unemployable, What If I Get A Census Job For 6 Wks?

[okmatthew]

The Spirit is willing ... but the flesh is week!

I've been rated 100% for 7 years due to being Individually Unemployable IU, and could not possibly enter the workforce again permanently. My award letter states there is no scheduled physicals so I'm set for life. Just for grins, I applied to the Census and they offered me a Crew Leader position, where I sit in my house and work out when and where people need to go. I think I can do the job at my own pace because I'll be in my home where I can lay down as often as I want and even can get my wife to help me keep it together. (Not too sure yet about the job description)... First though, I have to spend 4 days 3 nights in Tulsa Training 1st.

I called VA Regional HQ in Muskogee a couple of times and was told it depends on how much I make in a year. No more than $11,000.00 OVER A YEAR or $1269 over 6 weeks. Well the census is for 4-6 weeks and pays nearly $16 an hour plus mileage. Possibility of $3800 for 6 weeks plus or minus.

So I'd be making 3 times a week more but only for 4- 6 weeks in a job that exists every 10 years. It is unique because I might put in a lot of hours but I can rest when ever and get my wife to help me keep on top of everything. It wouldn't be like a regular Census Taker where they have to drive all over and walk to peoples houses etc...

I really don't want the VA to even challenge me and would NOT Take The Job if there was ANY chance of loosing my benefits.

So what does everybody think? Are they gunning for 'Stupid Vets' whom they could kick off IU or should I be OK? This is the 1st job I have had in 7 years and if it were going to last more than 6 weeks I couldn't do it at all.

Thanks

OKMatthew

[hrtbn]

It has taken me nearly 18 years to get rated 50% for PTSD and another year and a half to have it raised to 100%. Now, I am waiting for a response for the VA to make it permanent. I have so many health issues (including AO) that sometimes I feel the wooden box is the only escape from the pain, etc.

Counting heads for a few weeks doesn't seem like much, but if you are rated for Unemployability, then it must surely take on a new meaning.

Personally, I would not risk it because I do not have another 18 years to lose. But, one must do what they feel is right for themselves. Consider your odds. Consider your family.

I bent down to pick up a washer off the ground for a friend and he reported me to the SSA as "working". I got my SS and lost what I thought was a good friend in the mix. People have their jealousies, if you what I mean.

[hedgey]

Good for you for wanting to try something.

But are you sure you're up to being in a training center, surrounded by strangers for 8 or more hours at a time, and staying overnight to boot? (I sure couldn't do it. I can barely handle getting from my car to my appts. at the VAMC... too many people, crowded elevators, etc. )

As for how the VA would respond to your working... Well, they rated you as unemployable. If they get proof that you accepted and performed employment, especially full time (though of short duration), it seems reasonable that they would think perhaps you are employable after all. My Vet Rep advises that IU folks even be careful about how much volunteering they do.

I strongly recommend that you don't take the word of someone on the telephone at the VA. They might have the correct info, they might not. Do you have a VSO you could discuss this with?

[LarryJ]

Good for you for wanting to try something.

But are you sure you're up to being in a training center, surrounded by strangers for 8 or more hours at a time, and staying overnight to boot? (I sure couldn't do it. I can barely handle getting from my car to my appts. at the VAMC... too many people, crowded elevators, etc. )

As for how the VA would respond to your working... Well, they rated you as unemployable. If they get proof that you accepted and performed employment, especially full time (though of short duration), it seems reasonable that they would think perhaps you are employable after all. My Vet Rep advises that IU folks even be careful about how much volunteering they do.

I strongly recommend that you don't take the word of someone on the telephone at the VA. They might have the correct info, they might not. Do you have a VSO you could discuss this with?

I'm with you, hedgey, and, if I was a VSO........................well, I probably would still be agreeable with you. But, like you said, he needs to find a reputable VSO to talk with.

[Philip Rogers]

If I recall correctly in order for the VA to terminate TDIU the claimant must have one yr of proven employment. I think that's in the CFR's. You could also give it a try. You might not make the 6 wks. Personally, I think you're safe. Just be sure to report the income in your annual VA report. jmo

pr

[Guest terrysturgis]

I agree with the advice given on this thread. My thought is to see if your wife could apply for the same job with your help. Keeps you off the VA radar. Terry