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38 CFR 19.29 Statement of the Case After the VA receives an NOD from a veteran, it will prepare the Statement of the Case (SOC) for all issues that were not granted service connection or the maximum rating. The SOC explains the decision, including a cover letter explaining the appeal process. Also included in the SOC is a list of the issues being decided in the claim, a summary of the evidence, the pertinent laws and VA regulations related to the claim, and the decision and reasoning behind each issue. The SOC may include helpful information for the veteran to prepare his or her appeal. Still, the most important thing to remember about the SOC is that the veteran has 60 days from the date of the SOC cover letter to send in VA Form 9, which is the substantive appeal. Failure to respond to the SOC within 60 days by filing VA Form 9 may result in the appeal being closed and the decision becoming final. Watch Attig Law Firm Statement of the Case Example How to Read and Understand this VA Form After watching this video, you will have learned: How to calculate the CORRECT deadlines for filing your VA Form 9 Appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals What does a Statement of the Case look like? The 4 Parts of the Statement of the Case that you NEED to understand and verify Tips to make your arguments in your VA Form 9 Appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals BETTER based on what you read on the Statement of Case. How do you tell if the VA made some basic errors in denying your claim? Much more! View full record

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VA service representatives can answer questions about benefits eligibility and application procedures. Contact the nearest VA benefits office at 1-800-827-1000 from any United States and Puerto Rico location. VA facilities are also listed in the federal government section of telephone directories under “Veterans Affairs.” Included Forms (Always check here VA Forms first make sure you have the most recent copy of the form: Find VA Forms Here Common Forms Application For United States Flag For Burial Purposes Claim For Government Medallion For Placement In A Private Cemetery Claim For Standard Government Headstone Or Marker – How To Complete Va Form 40-1330, Application For Standard Government Headstone Or Marker Claim For One Sum Payment Government Life Insurance Claim For Monthly Payments United States Government Life Insurance (USGLI) Claim For Monthly Payments National Service Life Insurance Section 301 of Public Law 109-461 adds a new category to the definition of “eligible person” for DEA benefits. DEPENDENT OR SURVIVOR The Veterans Benefits Administration offers a variety of benefits and services to spouses, children, and parents of Service members and Veterans who are deceased or totally and permanently disabled by a service-connected disability. One of the more difficult tasks a survivor faces after the death of the veteran is completing the numerous claims forms for VA survivors’ benefits. The anxiety and fear of the unknown – who to call, what to do, or where to go for help – can be an unpleasant experience. Here are some basic quick tips to help ease the burden and ensure you have the necessary details for filing a claim. Documents Needed The veteran’s VA claim number or Social Security number The veteran’s death certificate Government life insurance policy A copy of all marriage certificates and divorce decrees (if any) A copy of each child’s birth certificate (or adoption order) Veteran’s birth certificate to determine parents’ benefits Where to Get Help Survivors and Dependents Benefits — Death After Active Service Secure electronic messaging IRIS Contacting the VA Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents VA service representatives can answer questions about benefits eligibility and application procedures. Contact the nearest VA benefits office at 1-800-827-1000 from any United States and Puerto Rico location. VA facilities also are listed in the federal government section of telephone directories under “Veterans Affairs.” Read through HadIt.com’s Forum on DIC – Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Bereavement Counseling at Veterans Centers – The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) offers bereavement counseling to parents, spouses, and children of Armed Forces personnel who died in the service of their country. Also eligible are family members of reservists and National Guardsmen who die while on duty. Find out about The Veterans Center. (Personally, I think they have been an oasis in a crazy maze. – (Tbird Founder HadIt.com Veteran To Veteran LLC) What to Do When Someone Dies: A Step-by-Step Guide via Rocket Lawyer There are many legal matters surrounding the death of a person. Some of these matters can be dealt with before death, others after death. This section looks at the reading of the will and disposition of the dying person’s property and assets during probate. It also underscores the importance of Advanced Care Planning, Advance Care Directives, Living Wills, Power of Attorney, and Living Trusts. View full record

The Law of Veterans’ Benefits 2008-2010: Significant Developments, Trends, and a Glimpse into the Future The Law of Veterans’ Benefits 2008-2010: Significant Developments, Trends, and a Glimpse into the Future View full record

DATE: 02-13-91 CITATION: VAOPGCPREC 04-91 Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 04-91 TEXT: Failure to Submit to Medical Examination--Insistence on the Presence of an Attorney and Use of a Recording Device QUESTION PRESENTED: Has a veteran failed to report for a scheduled examination for purposes of 38 C.F.R. § 3.655 if he or she appears but refuses to be examined unless accompanied by a private attorney and allowed to record the evaluation? This is in response to your request for an opinion concerning the possible "right" of Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) beneficiaries to be accompanied by an attorney during scheduled VA medical examinations. The veteran appeared for a scheduled psychiatric examination but refused to be examined unless the veteran's attorney was present and the veteran was permitted to use a tape recorder during the evaluation. Section 3.329 of title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, provides that every person applying for or in receipt of compensation or pension shall submit to examinations when required by VA under proper authority. Section 3.655 of that title provides for discontinuance of benefits when a veteran fails "without adequate reason" to report for examination. Determination of the facts surrounding a claimant's failure to report is a factual matter which rests with VA adjudication and appellate personnel. See 38 C.F.R. §§ 3.100 and 19.111. This opinion addresses the legal issue of whether denial of assistance of counsel and use of a recording device in connection with A "right to counsel" in administrative proceedings does not exist unless it can be found in some constitutional clause, statutory measure, or regulation. Barker v. Hardway, 283 F.Supp. 228 (S.D.W.Va.), aff'd, 399 F.2d 638 (4th Cir.1968), cert. denied, 394 U.S. 905 (1969); Suess v. Pugh, 245 F.Supp. 661 (N.D.W.Va.1965) (proceeding before Professional Standards Board of Veterans Administration). Turning first to the United States Constitution, we note that the Sixth Amendment provides for the assistance of counsel " in all criminal prosecutions." It has no bearing on the question of assistance of counsel in civil matters before administrative agencies. Hannah v. Larche, 363 U.S. 420 (1960); Smith v. United States, 250 F.Supp. 803 (D.N.J.1966), appeal dismissed, 377 F.2d 739 (3d Cir.1967); Suess, 245 F.Supp. at 665. The Fifth Amendment is less specific than the Sixth and contains a very powerful guarantee, requiring that one not be "deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law." U.S. Const. amendment V. However, in interpreting that clause, the courts have been reluctant to find that "due process" includes a right to representation by counsel in administrative activities of an investigatory or preliminary nature. E.g., In Re Groban, 352 U.S. 330, 335 (1957) (no right to assistance of counsel in testifying at an investigatory proceeding); Bowles v. Baer, 142 F.2d 787, 789 (7th Cir.1944) (investigations held in private, without representation by counsel-- held no provision of the Constitution required public hearing); see also Hannah, 363 U.S. at 440-51 (no right to cross-examine witnesses before commission performing investigative function). See generally Torras v. Stradley, 103 F.Supp. 737, 739 (N.D.Ga.1951) (noting cases recognizing distinction between fact-finding functions and those involving determination of legal rights). In applying this case law to the situation under consideration, we note that medical examinations conducted by VA are investigative in nature. Within VA, there is a clear delineation between the role of the Veterans Health Services and Research Administration (VHS & RA) and that of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA). Compare the Department of Veterans Affairs Act, Pub.L. No. 100-527, § 7, 102 Stat. 2635, 2640 (1988), with 38 U.S.C. § 4101(a). As set out in 38 C.F.R. ss 2.67 and 3.100(a), authority is delegated to VBA personnel to make findings and decisions as to entitlement of claimants to monetary benefits under laws administered by VA. Thus, even though medical examinations conducted by VHS & RA provide important information relevant to claims for benefits, the examinations are not conducted by the same individuals who participate in benefit decisions, and the reports of those examinations represent only one piece of information which will be considered by adjudication personnel in determining eligibility for benefits. Given the nature of the examination function, there is thus, in our view, no constitutional right to the presence of an attorney at a VA medical examination. With regard to pertinent statutory provisions, assistance of counsel for persons appearing before administrative agencies is addressed in the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) in the first two sentences of 5 U.S.C. § 555(b). The first sentence provides that " a person compelled to appear in person before an agency or representative thereof is entitled to be accompanied, represented, and advised by counsel or, if permitted by the agency, by other qualified representative." The second sentence adds that " a party is entitled to appear in person or by or with counsel or other duly qualified representative in an agency proceeding." The legislative history of the predecessor to this provision indicates that the second sentence was intended to supplement the first sentence by providing a rule to govern situations where appearance of an individual is not compelled. 92 Cong.Rec. 2156 (1946) (statement of Senator McCarran). Since the veteran in this case was required to appear for examination at the risk of termination of benefits, we believe that only the first sentence of section 555(b) is for consideration here. The predecessor to section 555 was described in congressional committee reports as prescribing "the rights of private parties in a number of miscellaneous respects which may be incidental to rulemaking, adjudication, or the exercise of any other agency authority." H.R.Rep. No. 1980, 79th Cong., 2d Sess. 18, reprinted in 1946 U.S.Code Cong.Service 1195, 1206; S.Rep. No. 752, 79th Cong., 1st Sess. 8 (1945). The reference to "any other agency authority" suggests a broad application of the section. Further, a section-by-section analysis in the House report on the measure stated broadly " the section is a statement of statutory and mandatory right of interested persons to appear themselves or through or with counsel before any agency in connection with any function, matter, or process whether formal, informal, public, or private." H.R.Rep. No. 1980, supra, at 31. Given that Congress intended the provision to apply to a broad range of agency functions, the question remains as to whether Congress intended that any limitations apply with respect to the scope of representation activities. This issue was addressed in House floor debate on the measure by Congressman Walter of the Committee on the Judiciary, who stated " t he representation of counsel contemplated by the bill means full representation as the term is understood in the courts of law." 92 Cong.Rec. 5652 (1946). Thus, it appears that the scope of representation was intended to be consistent with that recognized in judicial proceedings. A review of analogous situations in judicial proceedings reveals that medical examinations in both adversarial and nonadversarial settings are almost uniformly conducted without the presence of attorneys. For example, parties do not have the right, under discovery rules, to have an attorney present during mental or physical examinations conducted by physicians pursuant to Rule 35(a) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. E.g., Wheat v. Biesecker, 125 F.R.D. 479 (N.D.Ind.1989) (by attending the examination the attorney might have to choose between participating at trial as a litigator of as a witness); Cline v. Firestone Tire & Rubber Co., 118 F.R.D. 588 (S.D.W.Va.1988) (nature of psychological examination particularly dictates against allowing the attorney to be present). Courts considering the issue of assistance of counsel in administrative proceedings have frequently ignored the possible applicability of the APA. Wasson v. Trowbridge, 382 F.2d 807, 812 (2d Cir.1967) (APA not mentioned in discussion of right of military academy cadet to counsel during expulsion hearing); Schawartzberg v. United States Board of Parole, 399 F.2d 297 (10th Cir.1968) (upheld regulation excluding counsel from parole hearings without mentioning APA). In F.C.C. v. Schreiber, 329 F.2d 517 (9th Cir.1964), modified on other grounds, 381 U.S. 279 (1965), the Ninth Circuit held that application of the "right to counsel" as provided in the APA varies with the circumstances of the case. In its turn, the Supreme Court noted, in F.C.C. v. Schreiber, 381 U.S. 279, 290 (1965), that administrative agencies should be free to fashion their own procedures and pursue methods of inquiry capable of permitting them to discharge their "multitudinous duties." Significantly, it has been held that, under the Social Security statutes, a claimant for Social Security benefits may not insist on the presence of an attorney during disability examinations conducted by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Neumerski v. Califano, 513 F.Supp. 1011 (E.D.Pa.1981). The reasoning in Neumerski is illuminating. The court rejected the plaintiff's argument that the presence of counsel was justified because the proceedings had been given an adversarial taint by the agency's request for further examination. Consistent with the legislative history of the APA the court pointed out that attorneys have no right to be present at medical or psychological examinations in truly adversarial civil litigation. 513 F.Supp. at 1016. Quoting from Brandenberg v. El Al Airlines, 79 F.R.D. 543, 546 (S.D.N.Y.1978), which labeled as "frivolous" the claim that an attorney should be present at such an examination, the court indicated that "this is especially true in psychological examinations which depend on 'unimpeded one-on-one communication between doctor and patient.' " 513 F.Supp. at 1017. In addition to the concern that the presence of an attorney would undermine the communication process of an examination, courts have also recognized that there is very little an attorney can contribute in certain settings. Cf. Cruz v. Skelton, 543 F.2d 86, 96 (5th Cir.1976), cert. denied, 433 U.S. 911 (1977) (parole board hearing does "not present a forum in which the special analytical, research or forensic skills of the lawyer are necessary, nor even likely to prove particularly helpful"). In light of these considerations, we cannot conclude that the APA provides a right to be represented by counsel at the examination itself. Turning to relevant VA statutes and regulations, we note that there is no provision in title 38, United States Code, or in VA regulations, specifically granting a claimant the right to have his or her attorney, or other representative, present during a medical evaluation. Further, the involvement of claimants' representatives in VA proceedings is clearly not without limits. For example, while the provisions of 38 C.F.R. § 3.103(e) state that claimants "are entitled to representation of their choice at every stage in the prosecution of a claim," this provision is specifically made subject to the general provisions governing representation by attorneys and other representatives of claimants and beneficiaries in the "preparation, presentation, and prosecution" of matters affecting veterans' benefits. See 38 U.S.C. § 3404(a); 38 C.F.R. § 14.626, et seq. See also 38 U.S.C. § 4005(a) (representation rights to be accorded in administrative appeals pursuant to VA regulations); 38 C.F.R. § 19.150 (full right to representation by "authorized" individuals in all stages of an appeal). Even assuming that a regularly scheduled medical examination represents a "stage in the prosecution of a claim" for purposes of section 3.103(e), the scope of representation must be considered in light of the generally recognized limitations on the role of attorneys in judicial and administrative proceedings. Such limitations, as discussed above, generally preclude the presence of attorneys at medical examinations, particularly those of a psychiatric nature. Thus, the provisions of Title 38 of the United States Code and the Code of Federal Regulations cannot be read to grant attorneys authority to participate in such activities. In view of the foregoing, we conclude that a veteran does not have a right to be accompanied by counsel at a scheduled VA examination and cannot justifiably refuse to submit to examination on the basis of denial of counsel. Similarly, there is no constitutional, statutory, or regulatory requirement that would allow beneficiaries to use recording devices during VA medical examinations. Again, it must be noted that the examinations at issue are investigative and preliminary in nature. Further, while case law on the subject is not extensive, it supports the conclusion that one has no "right" to record such activities. See, e.g., Baer, 142 F.2d at 788-89 (no constitutional infirmity where court reporter ordered to leave investigative-hearing room); In Re Neil, 209 F.Supp. 76, 77 (S.D.W.Va.1962) (APA does not extend to any party the right to bring a stenographer to report the proceedings at an agency hearing); Torras, 103 F.Supp. at 740 (witness in investigative proceeding did not have right under the APA to the presence of a personal stenographer). As discussed above with respect to the presence of an attorney, use of a recording device would threaten to impede free communication between the examinee and the examining physician. VA regulations do not authorize the use of recording devices at medical examinations, and we find that their use is not otherwise required by law. Thus, denial of the use of such a device would not be an adequate reason to refuse to submit to examination. HELD: Neither the Constitution, the Administrative Procedure Act, nor VA statutes and regulations provide a right to counsel at medical examinations scheduled by VA for evaluation of beneficiaries, including psychiatric evaluation. As, under the relevant constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions, there is no "right" to be accompanied by an attorney to this type of agency activity, refusal to participate unless accompanied by an attorney may be considered a failure to report for purposes of VA regulations at 38 C.F.R. § 3.655 providing for discontinuance of benefits for failure to report for examination. Similarly, a beneficiary may not insist on using a recording device at a VA medical examination, and refusal to participate due to absence of such a device may be considered a failure to report for purposes of VA regulations governing termination of benefits. VETERANS ADMINISTRATION GENERAL COUNSEL Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 04-91 View full record

To receive compensation from the VA, a veteran’s disability must be service-connected. There are five ways to establish a service connection: Direct service connection is for a disease or injury that first began in service or was caused by active military service. The burden of proof falls on the veteran to show that their current disability is directly related to their service. This is most easily proven by using military and service medical records as evidence that the condition was diagnosed in service or that symptoms of the condition began in service. However, in the absence of service records, other evidence can be used to make a case for direct service connection. References 38 CFR 3.304 Direct service connection; wartime and peacetime 38 CFR 3.305 Direct service connection; peacetime service before January 1, 1947 Service connection through aggravation is when a disability the veteran had before going into service gets worse because of their service. In other words, the veteran’s service caused the condition to progress faster than it should have naturally. All veterans undergo an entrance medical examination before entering active duty to establish the veteran’s health before service. If the veteran has pre-existing conditions, the medical examiner should have noted them on the Report of Medical Examination. A claim for service connection through aggravation is best supported by a medical opinion written by a doctor showing that service aggravated the condition beyond the natural progression. Suppose the pre-existing condition does not appear on the Report of Medical Examination. In that case, the veteran is assumed to be in good health and sound of mind when entering service, called Presumption of Soundness. References 38 CFR 3.306 Aggravation of preservice disability By law, the VA has established that veterans diagnosed with certain diseases within a specific period of time after service don’t have to prove that their disease is service-connected; it is presumptively service-connected. A full list of presumptively service-connected diseases and circumstances can be found here, but the most common circumstances include: Diagnosis of specific diseases within one year of being discharged from active duty Vietnam Veterans exposure to herbicides, such as Agent Orange Gulf War Veterans Former prisoner-of-war Exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953, through December 31, 1987, for a minimum of 30 days (cumulative) References 38 CFR 3.307 Presumptive service connection for chronic, tropical, or prisoner-of-war related disease, disease associated with exposure to certain herbicide agents, or disease associated with exposure to contaminants in the water supply at Camp Lejeune; wartime and service on or after January 1, 1947 38 CFR 3.308 Presumptive service connection; peacetime service before January 1, 1947 38 CFR 3.309 Disease subject to presumptive service connection This is granted if a service-connected disability aggravates a non-service-connected disability worse. The more common type of secondary service connection is where a service-connected disability causes another disability. An example of this would be a case of a veteran’s diabetes causing his/her peripheral neuropathy. Another example would be a veteran’s service-connected back ailment or injury causing radiculopathy or the same back ailment or injury leading to knee problems. References 38 CFR 3.310 Disabilities that are proximately due to, or aggravated by, service-connected disease or injury Oftentimes, an injury or aggravation can be caused by poor care and treatment by VA hospitalization, VA medical or surgical treatment, VA exams, or VA vocational rehabilitation, and can be service-connected. If a veteran dies due to VA health care, eligible survivors can receive certain VA benefits. References 38 CFR 3.154 Injury due to hospital treatment, etc In most or all of the ways a veteran can receive service-connected disability benefits, it is vital to the claimant's success to have a physician’s medical opinion that “it is more likely than not ” that the injury or illness was incurred or aggravated during active service. Source: Republished from Hill and Ponton View full record

VA benefits are available to compensate a veteran at the 100% level if he or she is not able to work because of service-connected conditions even without a 100% schedular rating. This benefit is called “total disability on the basis of individual unemployability”, (“TDIU”), or sometimes “individual unemployability, ” (“IU”). Source: TDIU or Individual Unemployability Source: Helpdesk.AskVetsFirst.org In order to qualify for TDIU benefits, a claimant must meet the following requirements: If the claimant has only one service-connected condition, that condition must be schedular rated at least 60% or more; If the claimant has two or more service-connected conditions, at least one of those conditions must be rated at 40% or more, and the veteran’s combined disability rating must be 70% or more; and In either case, the veteran must be unemployable because of his or her service-connected conditions. To establish “unemployability” or “inability to substantially maintain gainful employment”, the Veteran must provide: evidence of unemployment due to service-connected conditions, employment history records for example, and medical evidence that the veteran’s service-connected condition renders him or her totally disabled and unemployable, generally a doctor’s opinion letter. Having a paying job does not automatically disqualify a claimant from a TDIU award. If the wages are considered “marginal” (low paying) or “sheltered” (protected from usual requirements) employment are exceptions to the TDIU qualification requirements. Examples of employment that are allowed under TIDU: A job that pays substantially less than the prevailing poverty level, A job that is protected from requirements that someone else in that position would be expected to satisfy, or A job working for a friend or relative, may not be “substantially gainful employment.” Although it is always better to submit a specific claim for TDIU. The VA has a duty to look for potential TDIU claims based on the evidence in the claimant’s VA claims file, known as a “C-file”. The VA is required to review the claims for TIDU, even if not specifically requested by the Veteran, because entitlement to TDIU is part of every claim for disability compensation. Upon reviewing the claim, the VA determines if TDIU is an appropriate award for the claim. Evidence of unemployability can be submitted after an initial decision denying TDIU, if while a claim for schedular benefits is still being processed. As with most VA benefits, TDIU is not a permanent benefit. The VA can require a claimant undergo periodic medical examinations to confirm that the claimant remains unable to work due to a service-connected condition. And, as with all VA examinations, a failure to report for a scheduled examination can result in suspension or termination of a TDIU benefit. In addition, since a TDIU award is also based on “unemployability,” the VA can periodically request employment information from a claimant receiving TDIU benefits. The VA will also cross check employment earnings with the IRS. The TDIU rating could be terminated and the claimant could be liable to repay VA for the TDIU benefits paid since that employment began, if: the VA becomes aware that a claimant is working at a job that is not marginal or sheltered, A claimant must also be careful in performing volunteer work because the nature and time spent at unpaid work shows that a claimant could be employed and is no longer unemployable. If a Veteran is determined to be employale, the TDIU award can and will probably be revoked. When a TDIU rating is revoked, a claimant’s benefits go back to the amount of compensation payable under the scheduler rating and the VA can make the Veteran repay the TDIU award. Additional Information: Although it is best to make an explicit claim for TDIU if a claimant believes he or she is eligible, it is no longer required. Potential entitlement to TDIU is part of every claim for disability compensation. See Rice v. Shinseki, 22 Vet. App. 447, 454-55 (2009) (TDIU “is part and parcel of the determination of the initial rating for [a] disability”). It is now well established that the Board must consider “whether a TDIU award is warranted whenever a pro se claimant seeks a higher disability rating and submits cogent evidence of unemployability, regardless of whether he states specifically that he is seeking TDIU benefits.” Comer v. Peake, 552 F.3d 1362, 1366 (Fed. Cir. 2009) (citing Roberson v. Principi, 251 F.3d 1378 (Fed. Cir. 2001)); see also Rice v. Shinseki, 22 Vet. App. 447, 453-54 (2009) (same). “[A] request for TDIU, whether expressly raised by a veteran or reasonably raised by the record, is not a separate claim for benefits, but rather involves an attempt to obtain an appropriate rating for a disability or disabilities, either as a part of the initial adjudication of a claim or . . . as a part of a claim for increased compensation.” Rice v. Shinseki, 22 Vet. App. 447, 453-54 (2009); see also Floyd v. Brown, 9 Vet. App. 88, 96 (1996) (the question of an extraschedular rating is a component of the appellant’s claim for an increased rating). A request for a higher disability rating and evidence indicating that the claimant’s ability to work was “significantly impaired” by his or her service connected conditions reasonably raises the issue of entitlement to TDIU as an alternative basis for increased compensation. Id. VA regulations provide two methods by which TDIU may be granted. Under the first, TDIU may be assigned to a claimant who is “unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation as a result of service-connected disabilities” provided that he has received a disability rating of 60% or greater, or, if he is service-connected for two or more disabilities, at least one of those disabilities has been assigned a disability rating greater than 40%, and the combined disability rating for all disorders is at least 70%. 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a). If the claimant does not meet these schedular TDIU requirements, a TDIU rating may still be obtained by referral to the director of Compensation and Pension Service for extraschedular consideration when the claimant is unemployable by reason of service-connected disabilities. 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(b). 38 C.F.R. section 3.321(b)(1) provides an alternative method of referring a case for extraschedular consideration when a claimant demonstrates an “exceptional or unusual disability picture with such related factors as marked interference with employment or frequent periods of hospitalization as to render impractical the application of regular schedular standards.” Extraschedular consideration under section 3.321(b) is not the same as TDIU under section 4.16(b) because sections 4.16(b) and 3.321(b)(1) are not interchangeable. See Kellar v. Brown, 6 Vet. App. 157, 162 (1994) (“the effect of a service-connected disability appears to be measured differently” by the two regulations). Section 4.16(b) requires evidence of unemployability, while § 3.321(b)(1) requires only “marked interference with employment,” which is a somewhat less severe standard. See Thun v. Peake, 22 Vet. App. 111, 117 (2008); see also Stanton v. Brown, 5 Vet. App. 563, 564-70 (issue of extraschedular rating is separate from issue of TDIU rating). In other words, a claimant need not demonstrate total unemployability to obtain a section 3.321(b) extraschedular disability rating. The term “substantially gainful occupation” is not defined by VA regulation; however, the Court has held that the term refers to, at a minimum, the ability to earn “a living wage.” Bowling v. Principi, 15 Vet. App. 1, 7 (2001); Moore (Robert) v. Derwinski, 1 Vet. App. 356, 358 (1991). The Court has also held that a person is engaged in a “substantially gainful occupation” when that occupation “provides annual income that exceeds the poverty threshold for one person.” Faust v. West, 13 Vet. App. 342, 355-56 (2000). The M21-1MR states that “voluntary withdrawal from the labor market” is an “extraneous factor” whose “effects” should be “[i]dentif[ied] and isolate[d]” in determining whether the severity of the service-connected conditions preclude a veteran from “obtaining or retaining substantially gainful employment.” M21-1MR, pt. IV, subpt. ii, ch. 2, sec. F.27.e. Consequently, voluntary withdrawal from the labor market should not be an automatic bar to TDIU. In adjudicating an assertion of entitlement to TDIU, the Board must also consider whether the existing VA medical examination reports adequately “address the extent of functional and industrial impairment from the veteran’s service-connected disabilities.” Gary v. Brown, 7 Vet. App. 229, 232 (1994). Thus, if the Board determines that the existing examination reports are insufficient to assess the matter of TDIU, it should request additional medical evidence before adjudicating the matter. In resolving a TDIU case, the question is whether the claimant is capable of securing or maintaining a substantially gainful occupation. Although a claimant may be physically able to perform sedentary employment, he or she may not be educationally and vocationally qualified to perform such employment. Although the duty to assist does not require VA to provide a vocational assessment to a claimant seeking a total disability rating based on individual unemployability, a claimant’s education and work experience are relevant to the issue of entitlement to such a rating. Smith v. Shinseki, 647 F.3d 1380, 1386 (Fed. Cir. 2011). Specifically, it is within VA’s discretion to determine whether a vocational assessment was required based on “the facts of a particular case” and an assessment would be required “if, for example, the veteran were found medically qualified for a particular type of job, but there was an unusually difficult question as to whether the veteran had the educational or vocational skills for that position.” Id. Accordingly, Smith does not require VA to provide a vocational assessment in every instance where a claimant is seeking a total disability rating based on individual unemployability, but it does require VA to at least consider whether a vocational assessment is required and to support its determination that one is not required with an adequate statement of reasons or bases. Id.; see also 38 U.S.C. § 7104(d)(1) (requiring the Board to provide a written statement of the reasons or bases for its “findings and conclusions[] on all material issues of fact and law presented on the record”). If a claimant does not meet the schedular rating for unemployability provided in 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a), he may still be granted TDIU on an extraschedular basis. 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(b). The central inquiry “is whether that veteran’s service-connected disabilities alone are of sufficient severity to produce unemployability.” Hatlestad v. Brown, 5 Vet. App. 524, 529 (1993). In making its decision, VA may consider the veteran’s education, special training, and previous work experience, but may not take into consideration any impairment caused by non-service-connected disabilities. See 38 C.F.R. §§ 3.341, 4.16, 1.19. The Board’s determination as to whether a claimant is unable to secure and hold substantially gainful employment is a finding of fact that the Court reviews under the “clearly erroneous” standard. Bowling v. Principi, 15 Vet. App. 1, 6 (2001). Although the Secretary and the Board can separate parts of a claim and develop and adjudicate them separately, see Fagre v. Peake, 22 Vet. App. 188, 191 n.4 (2008) (noting the Secretary is free to “issu[e] separate Board decisions with regard to each, some, or all disabilities claimed by a veteran”), TDIU remains a component of an increased rating claim for any period not adjudicated separately, and the Board has jurisdiction over the issue as long as it has jurisdiction over an increased rating claim. See Rice v. Shinseki, 22 Vet. App. 447, 453-54 (2009). Evidence of unemployability subsequent to a decision denying TDIU and while a claim for increased benefits is still being processed may lead to an award of TDIU for the time period under adjudication. If TDIU is not warranted pursuant to 38 C.F.R. section 4.16(a), the matter of a TDIU rating may still be referred to the director of Compensation and Pension Service for extraschedular consideration when it is found that the claimant is unemployable by reason of service-connected disabilities. 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(b). “Evidence of unemployability,” does not equate to “100% unemployable.” Roberson v. Principi, 251 F.3d at 1378, 1384-85 (Fed. Cir. 2001). Instead, an appellant is not required “to show 100[%] unemployability in order to prove that he cannot ‘follow substantially gainful occupation.'” Id. Section 4.16(a) also indicates that “[m]arginal employment shall not be considered substantially gainful employment.” Marginal employment includes employment in a “protected environment” including a “sheltered workshop.” 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a). rice-v-shinseki-decision-assesment.pdf 2008-7013-comer-v-peake.pdf 97-1974-roberson-v-principi.pdf View full record

Housebound References: M21-1 Part VIII Chapter 10 SMC S Housebound 38 U.S.C. 1114(s) 38 CFR 3.350(i) View full record

Housebound References: M21-1 Part VIII Chapter 10 SMC S Housebound 38 U.S.C. 1114(s) 38 CFR 3.350(i)

What is Permanent and Total disability? Permanent and Total Disability, or P&T, refers to veterans whose disabilities are total (rated 100 percent disabling by VA) and permanent (have zero or close to zero chance of improvement). Though “Permanent and Total” is often used as a single phrase, veterans can have a total disability that is temporary or a permanent disability rated less than 100 percent. Permanent and total ratings are protected from being reduced and may entitle you or your family to additional VA benefits. Total—Veterans’ disabilities are rated based on VA’s Schedule of Rating Disabilities. The rating levels for each type of disability are based on how much that disability impairs your ability to function in life and at work. A 100 percent rating indicates that your disability is completely, or “totally,” disabling. Permanent—VA deems a disability “permanent” when it is reasonably certain, based on medical evidence, that the level of impairment will continue for the rest of the veteran’s life. For this reason, VA is allowed to take age into account when determining whether a disability is permanent, so it can be more difficult for younger veterans to be considered permanently disabled. Continue Reading at ccl-law.com.

Policy Letter 20-01 Article ID: 554400000143009 DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Veterans Benefits Administration Washington, D.C. 20420 March 19, 2020 Subject: Effective Date Provisions for Supplemental Claims for Compensation and Pension Claims Filed Within a Year of a Decision from the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit or the Supreme Court of the United States. Purpose This letter is to inform regional offices (ROs) that a supplemental claim filed within one­ year of a United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Federal Circuit) or Supreme Court of the United States (Supreme Court) decision-is considered a continuously pursued claim and can be afforded the effective date protections outlined in 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) section 5110 and 38 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 3.2500(h)(1). Background The Veteran Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2017 (AMA), overhauled VA's appeals process and provided Veterans, their families, and their survivors with increased choice in handling disagreements with VA's decisions. The AMA also included safeguards to ensure claimants receive the earliest effective date possible for their claims. Among those protections, 38 U.S.C. 5110 was amended to allow an effective date of an award to be as early as "the filing of the initial application for a benefit if the claim is continuously pursued by filing... a supplemental claim under section 5108 of this title on or before the date that is one year after the date on which the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims issues a decision." VA further delineated these effective date protections for continuously pursued issues in 38 CFR 3.2500(c) and 38 CFR 3.2500(h)(1). However, following a Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC) decision, claimants can appeal a CAVC decision to the Federal Circuit. Moreover, following a Federal Circuit determination, claimants may request certiorari from the Supreme Court. While the effective date protections afforded in the AMA did not explicitly extend protections to supplemental claims filed following decisions from the Federal Circuit or the Supreme Court, the Veterans Benefits Administration made the policy determination to extend these protections liberally. VA will construe the appeal to the CAVC to continue through the completion of any further judicial review of that same appeal for continuous pursuit purposes. As such, similar to CAVC decisions, valid supplemental claims for the same or similar benefit, filed within one year of either a Federal Circuit or Supreme Court decision, are considered continuously pursued. Furthermore, a valid supplemental claim timely filed after a Federal Circuit or Supreme Court decision, must be afforded the effective date considerations noted in 38 CFR 3.2500(c) and 38 CFR 3.2500(h)(1). Guidance Effective immediately, claims adjudicators must consider supplemental claims for compensation and pension benefits filed within one-year of a Federal Circuit or Supreme Court decision as continuously pursued claims and apply the provisions of 38 CFR 3.2500(h)(1) when adjudicating the claim. Questions Questions relating to Compensation Service benefits can be directed to the Policy corporate mailbox VAVBAWAS/CO/211 Policy. Questions relating to Pension and Fiduciary Service benefits can be directed to the Policy and Procedures corporate mailbox VAVBAWAS/CO/P&F POL & PROC. /S/ Beth Murphy Executive Director Compensation Service Ronald Burke Executive Director Pension and Fiduciary Service David McLenachen Executive Director Appeals Management Office View full record

Advocate’s Example Medical Nexus Opinion Letter SAMPLE Dear Dr. Jones: I represent Ms. Smith in her claim for veteran disability benefits. I am writing this letter to request a medical nexus opinion regarding her back condition. While serving in the Navy, Ms. Smith fell down a flight of stairs during a sexual assault. She was treated for back problems following the attack. Her service medical records found details of the fall and treatment during the service. Since her 1988 discharge, Ms. Smith’s back problems have been treated by a rheumatologist at the VA Medical Center. Treating doctors at the VA facility have diagnosed Ms. Smith with the following conditions: Cervicalgia with radiculopathy across both shoulders; Lumbago with radiculopathy down both lower extremities; Bilateral SI joint arthralgia: Myalgia, middle fibers of both trapezius muscles. Ms. Smith indicated that you would be willing to review her records and provide an opinion regarding the cause of her back conditions for her VA disability claim. I believe that Ms. Smith’s fall down the flight of stairs during her attack caused her current back condition. If a medical expert determines that it is “as likely as not” that Ms. Smith’s current back condition is linked to her in-service fall. Then, her current back disability will be considered service-connected, and her claim for benefits will be compensable. After reviewing the veteran’s medical records, please answer the following questions: Is it “as likely as not” that her current back condition is linked to her fall down the flight of stairs during her attack in service? What are the reasons and basis for your opinion? The reasoning for your opinion is as important as your opinion. Therefore, please indicate the documents you reviewed to reach your opinion and the facts you base your findings on. I have attached a copy of Ms. Smith’s disability claims file (C-File), which includes her service and post-service medical records. It is essential to note in your opinion that you reviewed Ms. Smith’s claims file. The veterans’ disability benefits system is unlike other legal proceedings in which medical opinions are requested. Please note that relevant portions of the claims file have been highlighted for convenience. If you choose to assist Ms. Smith, you will not be called to testify in court proceedings or depositions. Your opinion cannot be directly challenged, and you cannot be cross-examined. If you believe additional information may be helpful to this claim or have questions regarding this request, please get in touch with me at your convenience. Thank you for assisting Ms. Smith in pursuing the veterans’ benefits she earned. Very truly yours, Linda Agent, VA Accredited Claims Agent ID# Enclosures M21-1 Part V Subpart ii Chapter 1 Section A.1.i. Standards of Evidentiary Proof (M21-1 V.ii.1.A.1.i.) Every substantive or procedural factual matter must have a standard of proof whether stated explicitly or not. Standard of proof specifies the degree of persuasion or confidence in the evidence with regard to the subject of the proof that is required in order to find a fact proven. Note: The application of standard of proof is qualitative, not quantitative. The question is weight or persuasiveness of the evidence and not the number of items of evidence. Evidence is not necessarily in relative equipoise when the number of acceptable items of evidence tending to support a fact is equal to the number of items tending to not support a fact. The table below describes the different standards of evidentiary proof. Standard Description relative equipoise Evidence must persuade the decision maker that the fact is as likely as not. preponderance of the evidence The greater weight of evidence is that the fact exists. The fact is more likely than not. affirmative evidence to the contrary The fact is unlikely; the evidence against the matter is of greater weight. This standard is the opposite of the preponderance standard. clear and convincing The fact finder has reasonable certainty of the truth of a fact. This is a higher standard of proof than having to find a fact is more likely than not. clear and unmistakable The evidence must establish the fact without question. advocates-sample-letter.pdf

VAOPGCPREC 2-2019 (6/25/2019) Crediting Certain Veterans for Their Payment of Statutory Funding Fee Author: Simpson, J.; Kearney, C.; Raffaelli, D. VAOPGCPREC 3-2019 (12/13/2019) Effective Date Provision of the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019 Author: Jonas, B. VAOPGCPREC 1-2018 (8/06/2018) Fee Agreements and the Rapid Appeals Modernization Program Author: Krisch, J. VAOPGCPREC 1-2017 (1/06/2017) Service Connection Based on Obesity Author: Adelman, M. VAOPGCPREC 1-2015 (2/19/2015) Compensation of Fee-Basis Employees Author: Knott, C. VAOPGCPREC 2-2015 (3/20/2015) Authority to Solicit Gifts under 38 USC 8301 Author: Jaynes, M. VAOPGCPREC 3-2015 (12/07/2016) WITHDRAWN (8/28/2015) Whether Graves of Civil War-Era Soldiers Currently Identified with Marble Stones with Numerical Inscriptions Constitute "Unmarked Graves" for Purposes of VA Furnishing a Headstone or Marker under 38 U.S.C. § 2306 Author: Lee, Y.K. VAOPGCPREC 4-2015 (12/03/2015) Impact of veteran's death on a dispute regarding potential attorney's fees; Impact of accrued-benefits claim on potential attorney's fees Author: Thompson, B. VAOGCPREC 1-2014 (3/21/2014) Provision of Primary Care for Residents in State Home Domiciliaries Author: Raun, E. VAOGCPREC 2-2014 (5/19/14) Applicability of the Veterans Claims Assistance Act of 2000 to Decisions Concerning Benefits Administered by the National Cemetery Administration Author: Warren, T. VAOGCPREC 3-2014 (6/20/14) Effective Dates of Awards Based on Same-Sex Marriage Author: Shriber, C. VAOGCPREC 4-2014 (6/20/14) Reliance on State Law to Determine Validity of Same-Sex Marriage Author: Shriber, C. VAOGCPREC 5-2014 (1/5/17) REVISED (8/12/14) Duty to Assist in Seeking Records pertaining to an Individual other than the Claimant Link to Original Author: Barrans, D. VAOGCPREC 6-2014 (11/21/2014) Notice Required by 38 USC § 513(a)(1) upon Receipt of a New and Material Evidence Claim Author: Adelman, M. VAOPGCPREC 1-2012 (1/24/2012) Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Escrow Accounts Author: Simpson, J. VAOPGCPrec 2-2012 (10/31/2012) - Implementation of Public Law 112-154 Author: Simpson, J. VAOPGCPrec 3-2012 (12/20/12) Review of Prior Decisions Involving Military Sexual Trauma Author: Griffin, B. VAOPGCPREC 1-2011 Veterans’ Health Administration Quality-Assurance Records and Board of Veterans’ Appeal Review Authority – 38 U.S.C. § 5705; 38 C.F.R. §§ 17.500-17.511 (4/19/2011) PREC 1-2010 Overpayment and Requirement to Offset from Compensation Paid Under 38 U.S.C., § 1151 Amounts Recovered Under the Federal Tort Claims Act PREC 2-2010 Osborn v. Nicholson 21 Vet. App. 223 (2007) - Effect on Existing General Counsel Opinions, Application to other Benefit Programs, and Applicability to Series HH U.S. Savings Bonds and Bonds Issued by Other Political Subdivisions - 38 U.S.C. § 1503(a)(6), 38 C.F.R. 21 3.272(e) PREC 3-2010 Opinion temporarily withdrawn from web publication. PREC 4-2010 Clothing Allowance Benefit – 38 U.S.C. § 1162 and attach to this the first opinion attached. PREC 5-2010 (9/1/2010) Applicability of 38 U.S.C. § 3677(c)(7) for Approval of On-The-Job Program for Employees of State Approving Authorities PREC 6-2010 (10/12/2010) Presidential Memorandum – Do Not Pay List PREC 1-2009 Surviving Spouse's Benefit for Month of Veteran's Death - 38 U.S.C. § 5310(b) (1/22/2009) Citation: VAOPGCPREC1-2009 Author: Lee, K. PREC 2-2009 Use of VA Appropriations to Provide Medical Examinations for Service Members Enrolled in DES Pilor Program (2/10/2009) Citation: VAOPGCPREC 2-2009 Author: Adelman, M. PREC 1-2008 Opinion on Reimbursing Veterans under the SAH Program Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-2008, VAOPGCPREC 1-2008, 2008 PREC 2-2008 Servicemembers' Entitlement to Rehabilitation and Vocational Benefits under Public Law 110-181 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 2-2008, VAOPGCPREC 2-2008, 2008 PREC 3-2008 Servicemembers' Entitlement to Rehabilitation and Vocational Benefits under Public Law 110-181 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 3-2008, VAOPGCPREC 3-2008, 2008 PREC 1-2007 Applicability of 38 C.F.R. § 3.105(e) to TDIU Award Reinstated Based on CUE Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-2007, VAOPGCPREC 1-2007, 2007 PREC 2-2007 Padgett v. Nicholson, 473 F.3d 1364 (Fed. Cir.2007) - Effect on Appeal Pending before Board of Veterans' Appeals when Applicant Dies - 38 C.F.R. § 20.1302 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-2007, VAOPGCPREC 2-2007, 2007 PREC 1-2006 Qualifying Service under 38 USC §§ 3011 and 3012, and resulting Delimiting Date Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-2006, VAOPGCPREC 1-2006, 2006 PREC 2-2006 Applicability of 38 U.S.C. § 6107 Where Misuse Occurred before December 10, 2004 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec 2-2006, VAOPGCPREC 2-2006, 2006 PREC 3-2006 Multiple Ratings under Former 38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5285 (2003) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 3-2006, VAOPGCPREC 3-2006, 2006 PREC 4-2006 Proper Implementation of Public Law 109-233, Section 101 - Specially Adapted Housing Assistance Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-2006, VAOPGCPREC 4-2006, 2006 PREC 5-2006 Incarceration in a Privately Owned and Operated Correctional Facility - 38 U.S.C. § 5313 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-2006, VAOPGCPREC 5-2006, 2006 PREC 6-2006 Applicability of SGLI Tax Exemption to TSGLI - 38 U.S.C. §§ 1970(g), 1980A Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-2006, VAOPGCPREC 6-2006, 2006 PREC 1-2005 Applicability of the Veterans Claims Assistance Act to Claims by States that Pertain to the State Home Program Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-2005, VAOPGCPREC 1-2005, 2005 PREC 2-2005 Applicability of SGLI and VGLI Tax Exemption - 38 U.S.C. § 1970(g)Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-2005, VAOPGCPREC 2-2005, 2005 PREC 3-2005 Calculation of Sixty-First Day of Incarceration - 38 U.S.C. §§ 5313(a) and 1505(a) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-2005, VAOPGCPREC 3-2005, 2005 PREC 4-2005 Whether Request for Equitable Relief may be Considered "an Administrative Remedy" under Section 113(b) of Public Law 106-419 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-2005, VAOPGCPREC 4-2005, 2005 PREC 5-2005 Eligibility for a "Temporary" Total Disability Rating Based on Individual Unemployability - 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(b) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-2005, VAOPGCPREC 5-2005, 2005 PREC 1-2004 Effect of Pelegrini v. Principi concerning Content of Notice provided to Claimants under 38 U.S.C. § 5103(a) and 38 C.F.R. § 3.159(b) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-2004, VAOPGCPREC 1-2004, 2004 PREC 2-2004 Applicability of 38 U.S.C. § 5103(a) to a Claim for Separate Ratings for Service-Connected Tinnitus in Each Ear Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-2004, VAOPGCPREC 2-2004, 2004 PREC 3-2004 Eligibility for Automobile Assistance in Relation to Compensation for Disability “As If” Service Connected--38 U.S.C. §§ 1151(a) and 3901(1)(A); 38 C.F.R. § 3.808 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-2004, VAOPGCPREC 3-2004, 2004 PREC 4-2004 Reconciliation of Moody v. Principi, 360 F.3d 1306 (Fed. Cir. 2004), and Case Law on Cue Claims Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 4-2004, VAOPGCPREC 4-2004, 2004 PREC 5-2004 Applicability of 38 U.S.C. §§ 5103(a) and 5103A to Claims that Cannot Be Substantiated Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-2004, VAOPGCPREC 5-2004, 2004 PREC 6-2004 Character of Discharge of National Guard Member Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-2004, VAOPGCPREC 6-2004, 2004 PREC 7-2004 Pelegrini v. Principi, No. 01-944, 2004 WL 1403714 (Vet. App. June 24, 2004) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 7-2004, VAOPGCPREC 7-2004, 2004 PREC 8-2004 Application of 38 C.F.R. §§ 3.105(a), 3.400(k), 21.3040(d) and 21.3041(d) to Claims for Education Assistance Benefits under Chapter 35, Title 38, United States Code Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 8-2004, VAOPGCPREC 8-2004, 2004 Prec 9- 2004 Rating Limitation of Flexion and Extension of the Leg Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 9-2004, VAOPGCPREC 9-2004, 2004 Prec 10- 2004 Effect of Return to Active Duty upon Claims for VA Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 10-2004, VAOPGCPREC 10-2004, 2004 PREC 01-2003 Impact of Disabled American Veterans v. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Case Nos. 02-7304, -7305, -7316 (Fed. Cir. May 1, 2003) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 1-2003, VAOPGCPREC 1-2003, 2003 PREC 2-2003 Application of 38 C.F.R. § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6260, Tinnitus Recurrent Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 2-2003, VAOPGCPREC 2-2003, 2003 PREC 3-2003 Requirements for Rebutting the Presumption of Sound Condition under 38 U.S.C. § 1111 and 38 C.F.R. § 3.304 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 3-2003, VAOPGCPREC 2-2003, 2003 PREC 4-2003 Suspension or Termination of Debt Collection Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-2003, VAOPGCPREC 4-2003, 2003 PREC 5-2003 Informal Clain for Increase Based on Hospital Admission - 38 C.F.R. § 3.157(b)(1) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-2003, VAOPGCPREC 5-2003, 2003 PREC 6-2003 Service Connection for Cause of Disability or Death Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-2003, VAOPGCPREC 6-2003, 2003 PREC 7-2003 Application of Veterans Claims Assistance Act to Claims Pending on Date of EnactmentCitation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 7-2003, VAOPGCPREC 7-2003, 2003 PREC 8-2003 Notice of Information and Evidence Necessary to Substantiate Claim -- Issues Raised in Notice of Disagreement -- 38 U.S.C. §§ 5103(a), 7105(d) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 8-2003, VAOPGCPREC 8-2003, 2003 PREC 9-2003 Scope of Protection provided by 38 U.S.C. § 2305 in Claims for Burial Benefits under 38 U.S.C. Chapter 23 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 9-2003, VAOPGCPREC 9-2003,2003 PREC 1-2002 Dual Eligibility for Chapter 35 Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-2002, VAOPGCPREC 1-2002, 2002 PREC 2-2002 Nonassignability of Benefits—38 U.S.C. § 5301(a) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-2002, VAOPGCPREC 2-2002, 2002 PREC 3-2002 Disposition of Request for Waiver of Indebtedness in the Event of Death of the Veteran Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-2002, VAOPGCPREC 3-2002, 2002 PREC 4-2002 Meaning of “Injury” for Purposes of Active Service – 38 U.S.C. § 101(24) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 4-2002, VAOPGCPREC 4-2002, 2002 PREC 5-2002 Judicial Review of Regulations found in Part 4 of Title 38, Code of Federal RegulationsCitation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-2002, VAOPGCPREC 5-2002, 2002 PREC 6-2002 Protection of Service Connection - 38 U.S.C. § 1159, 38 C.F.R. § 3.957Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-2002, VAOPGCPREC 6-2002, 2002 PREC 7-2002 Termination of Benefits of Fugitive Felons Under Section 505 of Public Law 107-103 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 7-2002, VAOPGCPREC 7-2002, 2002 PREC 1-01 Consideration of Retroactive Compensation Award in Determining Estate of Veteran for Purposes of $1,500 Citation: Vet.Aff. Op. Gen.Couns.Prec. 1-01, VAOPGCPREC 1-01, 2001 PREC 2-01 Qualification for MGIB benefits under 38 U.S.C. § 3011(1)(a)(B) and 38 C.F.R. 21.7020(b)(5) when the individual had a break in active duty service Citation: Vet. Aff. Op.Gen.Couns. Prec. 2-01, VAOPGCPREC 2-01, 2001 PREC 3-01 Claims Assistance Act of 2000 -- Pub. L. 106-475 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 3-01, VAOPGCPREC 3-01, 2001 PREC 4-01 Rating Disability Compensated Under 38 U.S.C. § 1151 As If Service Connected--38 C.F.R. §§ 3.322(a) and 4.22 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-01, VAOPGCPREC 4-01, 2001 PREC 5-01 Application of 38 U.S.C. § 1151 to Claims Based on VA Failure to Diagnose Pre-Existing Condition Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-01, VAOPGCPREC 5-01, 2001 PREC 6-01 Availability of an Independent Living Housing Modification when Specially Adapted Housing (38 U.S.C. § 2101) and Home Improvement & Structural Alterations (38 U.S.C. 1717) have already been Provided Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-01, VAOPGCPREC 6-01, 2001 PREC 7-01 Effective Date of Reduction of VA Compensation When Veteran Is Receiving Military Retired or Retirement Pay Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 7-01, VAOPGCPREC 7-01, 2001 PREC 8-01 Meaning of “Injury” for Purposes of Active Service – 38 U.S.C. § 101(24) Citation: Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 8-01, VAOPGCPREC 8-01, 2001 PREC 9-01 Correct Delimiting Date Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 9-01, VAOPGCPREC 9-01, 2001 PREC 10-01 Limitation on payment of compensation and pension benefits while a beneficiary is incarcerated pursuant to 38 U.S.C. §§ 5313 &1505 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 10-01, VAOPGCPREC 10-01, 2001 PREC 11-01 Eligibility for a Headstone or Marker in Capital Crimes Cases Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 11-01, VAOPGCPREC 11-01, 2001 PREC 12-01 Roberson v. Principi, No. 00-7009, 2001 U.S. App. LEXIS 11008 (Fed. Cir. May 29, 2001) Citation: Vet.Aff.Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 12-01, VAOPGCPREC 12-01, 2001 THIS OPINION WAS SUPERSEDED BY PREC 4-2004 (5/28/2004). PREC 13-01 Withholding of Identity of Informers and Investigators involved in Field Examinations Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 13-01, VAOPGCPREC 13-01, 2001 PREC 14-01 Return to the Board of Cases Remanded for Evidentiary Development --38 C.F.R. §§ 19.9, 19.31, 19.38 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 14-01, VAOPGCPREC 14-01, 2001 CAUTION: However, see Disabled American Veterans v. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, 327 F.3d 1339 (Fed. Cir. 2003), which invalidated VA regulations permitting the Board of Veterans' Appeals to consider evidence that was not already considered by the agency of original jurisdiction, without obtaining the appellant’s waiver of the right to initial consideration by the agency of original jurisdiction. PREC 1-00 Countable Income for Death Pension Purposes--Deduction of Expenses Paid for Veteran's Last Illness Subsequent to Veteran's Death, but Prior to Date of Entitlement Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 1-00, VAOPGCPREC 1-00, 2000 PREC 2-00 Special Monthly Compensation for Loss of Creative Organ--Mastectomy--38 U.S.C. § 1114(k); 38 C.F.R. § 3.350(a) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 2-00, VAOPGCPREC 2-00, 2000 PREC 3-00 Retroactive Applicability of Revised Rating Schedule Criteria to Increased Rating Claims Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 2-00, VAOPGCPREC 3-00, 2000 PREC 4-00 Nature of Manual Provisions Concerning Claims Involving Asbestos-Related Diseases; Need for Medical-Nexus Evidence in Asbestos-Related Claims Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-00, VAOPGCPREC 4-00, 2000 PREC 5-00 Constitutionality of Retroactive Application of Proposed Legislation To Limit Time to Claim Insurance Proceeds Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-00, VAOPGCPREC 5-00, 2000 PREC 6-00 Nature of Manual Provisions Concerning Claims Involving Rheumatic Heart Disease Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-00, VAOPGCPREC 6-00, 2000 PREC 7-00 Qualification of Foreign Medical Studies as "Course of Study" Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec 7-00, VAOPGCPREC 7-00, 2000 PREC 8-00 Status of Surviving Spouse to Receive Death Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 8-00, VAOPGCPREC 8-00, 2000 PREC 9-00 Effect of Statements in Hix and Pardue v. Gober Concerning Evidence to be Considered in Determinations of “Hypothetical” Entitlement for Purposes of 38 U.S.C. § 1311(a)(2) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 9-00, VAOPGCPREC 9-00, 2000 PREC 10-00 Jurisdiction of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals in Consideration of Per Diem Payments to a State Home Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 10-00, VAOPGCPREC 10-00, 2000 PREC 11-00 Effective Date of Public Law No. 106-475 -- Duty to Assist Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 11-00, VAOPGCPREC 11-00, 2000 VAOGCPREC 1-1999 (3/15/17) REVISED Interpretation of 38 U.S.C. § 1151 and 38 C.F.R. § 3.358; Psychiatric Disability Resulting from Assault During Examination or Treatment Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 1-99, VAOPGCPREC 1-99, 1999 Link to Original PREC 2-99 Authority to Provide FTS Service to Veterans Service Organizations Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 2-99, VAOPGCPREC 2-99, 1999 PREC 3-99 Effective Date of Award and Date of Commencement of Payment of Monetary Allowance for Spina Bifida Under 38 U.S.C. § 1805 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 3-99, VAOPGCPREC 3-99, 1999 PREC 4-99 Requirement for a Well-Grounded Claim Under 38 U.S.C. § 1117 and 38 C.F.R. § 3.317--Undiagnosed Illness-Persian Gulf War WITHDRAWN Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-99, VAOPGCPREC 4-99, 1999 PREC 5-99 Scope of the Term Spina Bifida for Purposes of Benefits Under Section 421 of Pub. L. No. 104-204 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-99, VAOPGCPREC 5-99, 1999 PREC 6-99 Consideration of Claim of Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability Where Schedular Total-Disability Rating in Effect WITHDRAWN Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-99, VAOPGCPREC 6-99, 1999 PREC 7-99 Dependency and Indemnity Compensation--Disabilities Resulting from Alcohol or Drug Abuse--Pub. L. No. 101-508, § 8052 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 7-99, VAOPGCPREC 7-99, 1999 PREC 8-99 Applicability of Incontestable Provision in NSLI Policies--38 U.S.C. § 1910 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 8-99, VAOPGCPREC 8-99, 1999 PREC 9-99 Authority of Board of Veterans' Appeals to Adjudicate Question of Timeliness of Substantive Appeal When Issue Not Previously Adjudicated by Agency of Original Jurisdiction Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 9-99, VAOPGCPREC 9-99, 1999 PREC 10-99 Mitigating Circumstances-Six Semester Hour Exemption Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 10-99, VAOPGCPREC 10-99, 1999 PREC 11-99 Effect of Former Manual Provisions Concerning Authority to Pay Compensation for Retinitis Pigmentosa Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 11-99, VAOPGCPREC 11-99, 1999 PREC 12-99 Determinations as to Whether a Veteran "Engaged in Combat With the Enemy" for Purposes of 38 U.S.C. § 1154(b) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 12-99, VAOPGCPREC 12-99, 1999 PREC 13-99 Date of Claim in a Montgomery GI Bill Case Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 13-99, VAOPGCPREC 13-99, 1999 PREC 14-99 Vesting of Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 14-99, VAOPGCPREC 14-99, 1999 Prec 15-99 Validity of Regulatory Provisions Precluding Service Connection of Polycythemia Vera Based on Exposure to Ionizing Radiation Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 15-99, VAOPGCPREC 15-99, 1999 PREC 16-99 Effect of Entry Level Separation Based upon Fraudulent Enlistment on Status as a Veteran Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 16-99, VAOPGCPREC 16-99, 1999 PREC 01-98 Effective Date of Pub. L. No. 105-111--Revision of Decisions Based on Clear and Unmistakable Error Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 1-98, VAOPGCPREC 1-98, 1998 PREC 02-98 Benefits Based on Service-Connected Disability or Death--Disabilities Resulting from Alcohol or Drug Abuse--Pub. L. No. 101-508, § 8052 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 2-98, VAOPGCPREC 2-98, 1998 PREC 03-98 Definition of Institution in 38 USC §§ 101(4)(A)(iii) & 104(a) WITHDRAWN (3/25/2005) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 3-98, VAOPGCPREC 3-98, 1998 PREC 04-98 Applicability of 38 U.S.C. § 2305 in Claims for Burial Benefits Based upon Service in the Commonwealth Army of the Philippines During World War II Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-98, VAOPGCPREC 4-98, 1998 PREC 05-98 Distribution of Estate Assets Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-98, VAOPGCPREC 5-98, 1998 PREC 06-98 Consideration of Waiver and Challenge to Validity of Debt Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-98, VAOPGCPREC 6-98, 1998 PREC 07-98 REPS (Restored Entitlement Program for Survivors) Effective Dates Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 7-98, VAOPGCPREC 7-98, 1998 PREC 08-98 Compensation for Undiagnosed Illness Under 38 U.S.C. § 1117 and 38 C.F.R. § 3.317 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 8-98, VAOPGCPREC 8-98, 1998 PREC 09-98 Multiple Ratings for Musculoskeletal Disability and Applicability of 38 C.F.R. §§ 4.40, 4.45, and 4.59 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 9-98, VAOPGCPREC 9-98, 1998 PREC 10-98 Surviving Spouse’s Benefit for Month of Veteran’s Death--38 U.S.C. § 5310(b); 38 C.F.R. § 3.20(c) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 10-98, VAOPGCPREC 10-98, 1998 PREC 11-98 Priorities for Care Under VA’s New Patient Enrollment System Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 11-98, VAOPGCPREC 11-98, 1998 PREC 12-98 Effective Date of Increased Rating Claim -- 38 C.F.R. § 3.400(o)(2) and (q)(1)(i) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 12-98, VAOPGCPREC 12-98, 1998 PREC 13-98 Surviving Spouse’s Eligibility for Benefits--38 U.S.C. § 1311 (e) --Pub. L. No. 105-178, § 8207 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 13-98, VAOPGCPREC 13-98, 1998 PREC 14-98 Issues Raised by Joint Remand Motion: Presumption of Aggravation for Chronic Diseases; Removal of Documents from Claims File; Validity of 38 C.F.R. § 20.903 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 14-98, VAOPGCPREC 14-98, 1998 PREC 1-97 Countability of Distributions from Individual Retirement Accounts as Income for Purposes of Pension and Parents’ Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-97, VAOPGCPREC 1-97, 1997 PREC 2-97 Secondary Service Connection of a Disability Resulting from a Veteran's Alcohol or Drug Abuse - 38 C.F.R. § 3.310(a) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-97, VAOPGCPREC 2-97, 1997 PREC 3-97 Offset of Benefits under 38 U.S.C. § 1318 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-97, VAOPGCPREC 3-97, 1997 PREC 4-97 Board of Veterans' Appeals Jurisdiction in Matters pertaining to Garnishment of Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 4-97, VAOPGCPREC 4-97, 1997 PREC 5-97 Dental Care Eligibility - Neilson v. Brown, 7 Vet. App. 22 (1994) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-97, VAOPGCPREC 5-97, 1997 PREC 6-97 Official Information regarding Incarceration pursuant to 38 U.S.C. § 5313 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 6-97, VAOPGCPREC 6-97, 1997 PREC 7-97 Benefits under 38 U.S.C. § 1151 for Disability Incurred as the "Result of Hospitalization" Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 8-97, VAOPGCPREC 8-97, 1997 PREC 8-97 Applicability of 38 C.F.R. § 3.310 to Disability Proximately to or the result of Disability covered by 38 U.S.C. § 1151 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 8-97, VAOPGCPREC 8-97, 1997 PREC 9-97 Perfecting an Appeal after issuance of a Supplemental Statement of the Case - 39 U.S.C. § 7105(d); 38 C.F.R. § 20.301(c) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 9-97, VAOPGCPREC 9-97, 1997 PREC 10-97 Treatment of Alaska Native Corporation Distributions for Improved-Pension Purposes Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 10-97, VAOPGCPREC 10-97, 1997 PREC 11-97 Application of Amended Rating Schedule Provisions in Pending Claims involving Ratings for Mental Disorders Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 11-97, VAOPGCPREC 11-97, 1997 PREC 12-97 Payments of Attorney Fees from Past-due Benefits under 38 U.S.C. § 5904(d) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 12-97, VAOPGCPREC 12-97, 1997 PREC 13-97 Reduction of a Total Disability Rating based on Individual Unemployability due to removal from the "Work Possible Environment" Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 13-97, VAOPGCPREC 13-97, 1997 PREC 14-97 Application of 38 U.S.C. § 1151 to Vocational Rehabilitation Program Participants Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 14-97, VAOPGCPREC 14-97, 1997 PREC 15-97 Treatment of Income received from Bonds of Tribal Enterprise Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 15-97, VAOPGCPREC 15-97, 1997 PREC 16-97 Application of the Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 1996, Pub. L. No. 104-275, §§ 502 & 507 - Clothing Allowance; Accrued Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 16-97, VAOPGCPREC 16-97, 1997 PREC 17-97 Payment of Vocational Training expenses directly to a Veteran Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 17-97, VAOPGCPREC 17-97, 1997 REC 18-97 Presumptive Service Connection for Diseases associated with Herbicide Exposure - Metastasized Cancer Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 18-97, VAOPGCPREC 18-97, 1997 PREC 19-97 Secondary Service Connection based on Nicotine Dependence Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 19-97, VAOPGCPREC 19-97, 1997 PREC 20-97 Definition of Insanity in 38 C.F.R. § 3.354(a) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 20-97, VAOPGCPREC 20-97, 1997 PREC 21-97 Pension Income: Characterization of Per Capita Distributions of Revenues from Gaming on Tribal Trust Land Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 21-97, VAOPGCPREC 21-97, 1997 PREC 22-97 Mandatory Electronic Funds Transfer (Direct Deposit) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 22-97, VAOPGCPREC 22-97, 1997 PREC 23-97 Multiple Ratings for Knee Disability Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 23-97, VAOPGCPREC 23-97, 1997 PREC 24-97 Special Housing Adaptation for Veteran receiving Compensation under Section 1151 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 24-97, VAOPGCPREC 24-97, 1997 PREC 25-97 Treatment of Military Retired Pay paid directly to an Ex-Spouse in determining entitlement to Need-based Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 25-97, VAOPGCPREC 25-97, 1997 PREC 26-97 Retroactive Benefits in Claims for Service Connection of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 26-97, VAOPGCPREC 26-97, 1997 PREC 27-97 Service in the Republic of Vietnam for purposes of Definition of Vietnam Era - 38 U.S.C. § 101(29)(a) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 27-97, VAOPGCPREC 27-97, 1997 PREC 28-97 Eligibility for Supplemental SDVI Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 28-97, VAOPGCPREC 28-97, 1997 PREC 29-97 Application of 38 C.F.R. § 3.105(e) - Reduction in Service-Connected Disability Rating Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 29-97, VAOPGCPREC 29-97, 1997 PREC 30-97 Entitlement to Special Monthly Compensation for Disarticulation of the Hips following preexisting Paraplegia Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 30-97, VAOPGCPREC 30-97, 1997 PREC 31-97 Reconsideration of Regional Office Decision reducing Rating Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 31-97, VAOPGCPREC 31-97, 1997 PREC 32-97 Authority for Evaluating Unilateral Hearing Impairment Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 32-97, VAOPGCPREC 32-97, 1997 PREC 33-97 Treatment of Assets placed in a Special Needs Trust in determining Eligibility for Improved Pension Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 33-97, VAOPGCPREC 33-97, 1997 PREC 34-97 Application of 38 U.S.C. § 3104(b) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 34-97, VAOPGCPREC 34-97, 1997 PREC 35-97 Effective Date of Award of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 35-97, VAOPGCPREC 35-97, 1997 PREC 36-97 Applicability of 38 C.F.R. §§ 4.40, 4.45 and 3.321(b)(1) in Rating Disability under Diagnostic Code 5293 (intervertebral Disc Syndrome) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 36-97, VAOPGCPREC 36-97, 1997 PREC 37-1997 Opinion requested concerning Attorney Fees Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 37-97, VAOPGCPREC 37-97, 1997 PREC 38-97 Failure to apply Evidentiary Presumption as a basis to Reopen Claim Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 38--97, VAOPGCPREC 38-97, 1997 PREC 39-97 Countability as Income of Reparations paid to Victims of Nazi Persecution Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 39-97, VAOPGCPREC 39-97, 1997 PREC 40-97 Effective Date of Amendments to 38 U.S.C. § 1151 made by Pub. L. No. 104-204 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 40-97, VAOPGCPREC 40-97, 1997 PREC 1-96 Effective Date where Award to a Surviving Spouse results in Termination of an Award based on a deemed Valid Marriage Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-96, VAOPGCPREC 1-96, 1996 PREC 2-96 Entitlement to Compensation of Veteran who violates Parole Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-96, VAOPGCPREC 2-96, 1996 PREC 3-96 Application of Health Insurance Payments to Veterans' Copayment Obligations Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-96, VAOPGCPREC 3-96, 1996 PREC 4-96 Preservation of Disability Ratings under 38 U.S.C. § 110 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 4-96, VAOPGCPREC 4-96, 1996 PREC 5-96 Various Applications of VAOPGCPREC 22-95 -- Payment of Attorney Fees by the Department of Veterans Affairs from Past-due Benefits in Cases Remanded by the Court of Veterans' Appeals Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-96, VAOPGCPREC 5-96, 1996 .PREC 6-96 Issues related to Floyd v. Brown, 9 Vet. App. 88 (1996) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 6-96, VAOPGCPREC 6-96, 1996 PREC 7-96 Separate and Distinct Transactions requiring Notification of Waiver Rights Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 7-96, VAOPGCPREC 7-96, 1996 PREC 8-96 Disposition of Unnegotiated Checks upon the death of the Guardian of A Beneficiary Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 8-96, VAOPGCPREC 8-96, 1996 PREC 9-96 Concurrent Payment of VA Disability Compensation and Reservists' Special Separation Pay (RSSP) and Reservists' Involuntary Separation Pay (RISP) under Pub. L. No. 102-464 AMENDED (1/09/2014) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 9-96, VAOPGCPREC 9-96, 1996 Link to Original PREC 10-96 Statutory Bars to Benefits: Effect of Substituted Discharge under 10 U.S.C. § 874(b) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 10-96, VAOPGCPREC 10-96, 1996 PREC 11-96 Dependency and Indemnity Compensation -- Disabilities resulting from Alcohol or Drug Abuse - Pub. L. No. 101-508 § 8052 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 11-96, VAOPGCPREC 11-96, 1996 PREC 12-96 Recoupment of Armed Forces Severance Pay from Veterans' Disability Compensation AMENDED (1/09/2014) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 12-96, VAOPGCPREC 12-96, 1996 Link to Original PREC 13-96 Severance of Entitlement to Benefits under 38 U.S.C. § 1151 WITHDRAWN August 2010 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 13-96, VAOPGCPREC 13-96, 1996 PREC 14-96 Payment of Attorney Fees from proceeds of a National Service Life Insurance Policy Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 14-96, VAOPGCPREC 14-96, 1996 PREC 1-95 Surviving Spouse's Improved Pensions amount where Veterans' Surviving Child receives Protected Apportionment of § 306 Pensions Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-95, VAOPGCPREC 1-95, 1995 PREC 2-95 Applicability of the $1,500 Rule" where an Incompetent Veteran is Hospitalized in a Private, Foreign Hospital at VA Expense Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-95, VAOPGCPREC 2-95, 1995 PREC 3-95 Payment of Death Benefits to Remarried Spouse - Effect of Annulment Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-95, VAOPGCPREC 3-95, 1995 PREC 4-95 Entitlement to Veterans' Mortgage Life Insurance Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 4-95, VAOPGCPREC 4-95, 1995 PREC 5-95 Protection of Disability Rating where Benefits are discontinued due to Return to Active Duty Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-95, VAOPGCPREC 5-95, 1995 PREC 6-95 Classification of Service -- Attendance at the United States Military Academy Preparatory School or Naval Academy Preparatory School Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 6-95, VAOPGCPREC 6-95, 1995 PREC 7-95 Fees for obtaining Records - Duty to Assist Claimants Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 7-95, VAOPGCPREC 7-95, 1995 PREC 8-95 Proper Interpretation of 38 C.F.R. §§ 21.4234(b), 21.5232, 21.7114, and 21.7614 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 8-95, VAOPGCPREC 8-95, 1995 PREC 9-95 Impact of Inherited Life Estate on Income and Net Worth for improved Pension Purposes Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 9-95, VAOPGCPREC 9-95, 1995 PREC 10-95 Use of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual in Claims based on Mental Disorders Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 10-95, VAOPGCPREC 10-95, 1995 PREC 11-95 Duty to Assist -- Contemporaneous Examination Requirement Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 11-95, VAOPGCPREC 11-95, 1995 PREC 12-95 Clear and Unmistakable Error -- Constructive Notice of VA Medical Records Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 12-95, VAOPGCPREC 12-95, 1995 PREC 13-95 Specially Adapted Housing Death Case Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 13-95, VAOPGCPREC 13-95, 1995 PREC 14-95 Reviewability of Unappealed Regional Office Decisions for Clear and Unmistakable Error - Effect of Subsequent Board of Veterans' Appeals Action Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 14-95, VAOPGCPREC 14-95, 1995 PREC 15-95 Applicability of the final Stipulation and Order Entered in the Nehmer litigation Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 15-95, VAOPGCPREC 15-95, 1995 PREC 16-95 School Supplement for VA Work-Study Students Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 16-95, VAOPGCPREC 16-95, 1995 PREC 17-95 Application of 38 U.S.C. § 7722 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 17-95, VAOPGCPREC 17-95, 1995 PREC 18-95 Termination Date in computing Past-Due Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 18-95, VAOPGCPREC 18-95, 1995 PREC 19-95 Time Limitations on Claims resulting from Nonnegotiation of Benefit Checks by the Payee Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 19-95, VAOPGCPREC 19-95, 1995 PREC 20-95 Medical Records Review prior to Rating Examinations Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 20-95, VAOPGCPREC 20-95, 1995 PREC 21-95 Multiple Overpayments - Notification of Waiver Rights Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 21-95, VAOPGCPREC 21-95, 1995 PREC 22-95 Effect of Secondary Entitlements and Changes in Representational Status on the department of Veterans Affairs' Obligation to pay Attorney fees from Past-Due Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 22-95, VAOPGCPREC 22-95, 1995 PREC 23-95 Application of Estate Limitation to Incompetent Veteran receiving Rehabilitation Services Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 23-95, VAOPGCPREC 23-95, 1995 PREC 24-95 Adjustment of Benefits under 38 C.F.R. §§ 3.557 and 3.853 for Certain Incompetent, Institutionalized Veterans Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 24-95, VAOPGCPREC 24-95, 1995 PREC 25-95 "Obvious Error" and Reconsideration of Board of Veterans' Appeals decisions based upon a Subsequently Invalidated Regulation Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 25-95, VAOPGCPREC 25-95, 1995 PREC 26-95 VA Housing Loans and Specially Adapted Housing Grants for Property held in Revocable Family Living Trusts Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 26-95, VAOPGCPREC 26-95, 1995 PREC 1-94 Improved-Pension Income -- Application of $2,000 Exclusion of Tribal per capita Payments under 25 U.S.C. § 1407 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-94, VAOPGCPREC 1-94, 1994 PREC 2-94 Special Monthly Compensation under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(s) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-94, VAOPGCPREC 2-94, 1994 PREC 3-94 Proposal to accumulate and distribute annually Monthly Payments to certain National Service Life Insurance beneficiaries Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-94, VAOPGCPREC 3-94, 1994 PREC 4-94 Claim for Benefits withheld from Individual in Foreign Country Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 4-94, VAOPGCPREC 4-94, 1994 PREC 5-94 Effective Date of Service Connection for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma under 38 C.F.R. § 3.313 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-94, VAOPGCPREC 5-94, 1994 PREC 6-94 Application of former Rating Schedule Provisions governing Loss of Part of Skull - Diagnostic Code 5296 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 6-94, VAOPGCPREC 6-94, 1994 PREC 7-94 Set-Off of Federal Tort Claims Act Damages -- 38 U.S.C. § 1151 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 7-94, VAOPGCPREC 7-94, 1994 PREC 8-94 Vocational Assessments in Individual Unemployability Claims -- Poler v. Derwinski, No. 91-1113 (Vet.App. June 26, 1992) remanded Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 8-94, VAOPGCPREC 8-94, 1994 PREC 9-94 Effect of Court of Veterans Appeals' Invalidation of VA Regulations or Statutory Interpretations Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 9-94, VAOPGCPREC 9-94, 1994 PREC 10-94 Effective Dates of Awards based on Judicial Precedents Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 10-94, VAOPGCPREC 10-94, 1994 PREC 11-94 Authority to Deny Claimant's Request for Equitable Relief Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 11-94, VAOPGCPREC 11-94, 1994 PREC 12-94 Accrued Benefits -- Evidence in the File at Date of Death - Unreimbursed Medical Expenses WITHDRAWN Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 12-94, VAOPGCPREC 12-94, 1994 PREC 13-94 WITHDRAWN 3/13/2000 Period of Active Service - Effect of Correction of Board Action Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 13-94, VAOPGCPREC 13-94, 1994 PREC 14-94 Determination of Period of Active Service under 38 U.S.C. § 3.9 for Philippine Veterans detained or interned by the Enemy Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 14-94, VAOPGCPREC 14-94, 1994 PREC 15-94 VA's Right to Subrogation on a Loan Guaranty Claim Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 15-94, VAOPGCPREC 15-94, 1994 PREC 16-94 Apportionment of Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 16-94, VAOPGCPREC 16-94, 1994 PREC 17-94 Conflicting Interests (38 U.S.C. § 3683, 38 C.F.R. § 21.4005) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 17-94, VAOPGCPREC 17-94, 1994 PREC 18-94 Classification of Service -- Attendance at the United States Air Force Academy Preparatory School Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 18-94, VAOPGCPREC 18-94, 1994 PREC 19-94 Payment of Attorney Fees in cases where a repeat Claim is filed and the Requirements of 38 U.S.C. § 5108 are Inapplicable Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 19-94, VAOPGCPREC 19-94, 1994 PREC 20-94 Authority of Board of Veterans' Appeals to proceed on remanded Orders from Court of Veterans Appeals in cases Appealed to the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 20-94, VAOPGCPREC 20-94, 1994 PREC 21-94 Aid & Attendance Allowance for Improved Pension Purposes Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 21-94, VAOPGCPREC 21-94, 1994 PREC 22-94 Effect of Judicial Invalidation of Regulations governing Effective Dates of Awards of REPS Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 22-94, VAOPGCPREC 22-94, 1994 PREC 23-94 Gardner Ruling Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 23-94, VAOPGCPREC 23-94, 1994 PREC 1-93 Treatment of Proceeds of Cashed-in Life Insurance Policy for Improved Pension SUPERSEDED IN PART BY PREC 2-2010 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-93, VAOPGCPREC 1-93, 1993 PREC 2-93 Entitlement to Benefits based upon Tobacco use while in Service Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-93, VAOPGCPREC 2-93, 1993 PREC 3-93 Applicability of 38 C.F.R. § 3.552(b)(1), Governing Adjustment of Aid and Attendance when a third Party reimburses the Government for the Cost of VA Hospitalization Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-93, VAOPGCPREC 3-93, 1993 PREC 4-93 Treatment of Alaskan Native Corporation Dividend Distributions Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 4-93, VAOPGCPREC 4-93, 1993 PREC 5-93 Just-Debts Exclusion for Improved Pension Income Purposes Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-93, VAOPGCPREC 5-93, 1993 PREC 6-93 Accrued Benefits -- Evidence in the File at Date of Death WITHDRAWN IN PART Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 6-93, VAOPGCPREC 6-93, 1993 PREC 7-93 Service in Vietnam under 38 C.F.R. § 3.313 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 7-93, VAOPGCPREC 7-93, 1993 PREC 8-93 Protection of Service Connection under 38 U.S.C. § 1159 and 38 C.F.R. § 3.957 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 8-93, VAOPGCPREC 8-93, 1993 PREC 9-93 Construction of the Schedule for Rating Disability -- "Definite" Impairment Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 9-93, VAOPGCPREC 9-93, 1993 PREC 10-93 Presumption of Permanent and Total Disability -- 38 C.F.R. § 3.326(b) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 10-93, VAOPGCPREC 10-93, 1993 PREC 11-93 Discharge as Conscientious Objector; Meaning of Active Continuous Service Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 11-93, VAOPGCPREC 11-93, 1993 PREC 12-93 Payment of attorney fees from past-due benefits when Veteran's Indebtedness to the United States exceeds total amount of past-due Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 12-93, VAOPGCPREC 12-93, 1993 PREC 1-92 Claim for Death Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 1-92, VAOPGCPREC 1-92, 1992 PREC 2-92 Interpretation of 38 U.S.C. § 7102 [was § 4002] Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 2-92, VAOPGCPREC 2-92, 1992 PREC 3-92 OPINION WITHDRAWN PREC 4-92 Child's right to receive Improved Death Pension when Surviving Spouse receives Dependency Compensation Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-92, VAOPGCPREC 4-92, 1992 PREC 5-92 De Novo Review of Sufficiency Evidence to reopen Claim Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-92, VAOPGCPREC 5-92, 1992 PREC 6-92 Can VA Regional Officer Rating Decision reducing a Total Disability Rating be upheld in the absence of a Specific Reference in the Decision to 38 C.F.R. 3.343(a) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-92, VAOPGCPREC 6-92, 1992 PREC 7-92 Applicability of VA Manual M21-1, Part 1, Para. 50.45 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 7-92, VAOPGCPREC 7-92, 1992 PREC 8-92 Entitlement to REPS Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 8-92, VAOPGCPREC 8-92, 1992 PREC 9-92 Effect of Sabol v. Derwinski, US Vet.App. No. 90-11 (March 3, 1992) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 9-92, VAOPGCPREC 9-92, 1992 PREC 10-92 Entitlement to Chapter 30 Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 10-92, VAOPGCPREC 10-92, 1992 PREC 11-92 Scope of Authority vested in Party holding Power of Attorney Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 11-92, VAOPGCPREC 11-92, 1992 PREC 12-92 Entitlement to Chapter 35 Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 12-92, VAOPGCPREC 12-92, 1992 PREC 13-92 Protection of Service Connection & Redesignation of Diagnostic to accurately reflect a Veteran's Current Diagnosis Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 13-92, VAOPGCPREC 13-92, 1992 PREC 14-92 Concurrent Payment of VA Disability Compensation & Voluntary Separation Incentive or Special Separation Benefits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 14-92, VAOPGCPREC 14-92, 1992 PREC 15-92 Effect on Pension Eligibility of Property held as a Life Estate Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 15-92, VAOPGCPREC 15-92, 1992 PREC 16-92 Authority of the Board of Veterans' Appeals to address matters not considered by the Agency of Original Jurisdiction Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 16-92, VAOPGCPREC 16-92, 1992 PREC 17-92 Minimum Active Duty Service Requirement Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 17-92, VAOPGCPREC 17-92, 1992 PREC 18-92 Attorney Fee Agreements in cases remanded by the Board of Veterans' Appeals Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 18-92, VAOPGCPREC 18-92, 1992 PREC 19-92 Protection of Disability Ratings under Pub. L. No. 102-86 § 103, State. 414-415 (1991) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 19-92, VAOPGCPREC 19-92, 1992 PREC 20-92 Clothing Allowance for Incarcerated Veterans Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 20-92, VAOPGCPREC 20-92, 1992 PREC 21-92 Payment of Burial Benefits on behalf of an Incompetent Veteran whose Compensation has been Suspended Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 21-92, VAOPGCPREC 21-92, 1992 PREC 22-92 Payment pursuant to 38 U.S.C. § 5121-5122 of amounts Represent Ted by Uncashed VA Benefit Checks Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 22-92, VAOPGCPREC 22-92, 1992 PREC 23-92 Eligibility of Institutionalized Veterans for OId & Attendance for a higher level of care under 38 U.S.C. § 1114 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 23-92, VAOPGCPREC 23-92, 1992 PREC 24-92 Pub. L. No. 10-547 -- Financing Discount Points Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 24-92, VAOPGCPREC 24-92, 1992 PREC 25-92 Effective Date of SGLI Increase provided by Pub. L. No. 102-25 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 25-92, VAOPGCPREC 2-592, 1992 PREC 26-92 Precedential Nature of the decisions of the Court of Veterans' Appeals Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 26-92, VAOPGCPREC 26-92, 1992 PREC 27-92 Payment of Attorney Fees Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 27-92, VAOPGCPREC 27-92, 1992 PREC 28-92 Determination of Veteran's Pay Grade Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 28-92, VAOPGCPREC 28-92, 1992 PREC 1-91 Cramdowns under Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 1-91, VAOPGCPREC 1-91, 1991 PREC 2-91 Is VA liable to Pay Interest to Lenders on the Miscalculation of "Net Value?” Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 2-91, VAOPGCPREC 2-91, 1991 PREC 3-91 Secretary's authority to comply with certain Conditions Specified in Loan Sale Agreements for AHT VIII & to amend AHT VI & AHT VII Documents Citation : Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 3-91, VAOPGCPREC 3-91, 1991 PREC 4-91 Failure to submit to Medical Examination - Insistence on the Presence of an Attorney & Use of a Recording Device Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 4-91, VAOPGCPREC 4-91, 1991 PREC 5-91 Payment of Charges to State Soldiers' Homes from Appropriated Funds when Payments have been discontinued under P.L. 86-146 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 5-91, VAOPGCPREC 5-91, 1991 PREC 6-91 Gratuitous Benefits, Pub. L. 86-146 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 6-91, VAOPGCPREC 6-91, 1991 PREC 7-91 Eligibility for Invalid Lift Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 7-91, VAOPGCPREC 7-91, 1991 PREC 8-91 Clarification of Certain Provisions of P.L. 86-639 & DM Circular 10-2009 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 8-91, VAOPGCPREC 8-91, 1991 PREC 9-91 Gratuitous Benefits, P.L. 86-146 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 9-91, VAOPGCPREC 9-91, 1991 PREC 10-91 Application of 38 USC 102(a) to Claims for PFOP Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 10-91, VAOPGCPREC 10-91, 1991 PREC 11-91 Change of Use of State Nursing Home Care Units Constructed with Grant Funds Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 11-91, VAOPGCPREC 11-91, 1991 PREC 12-91 Entitlement of a Reservist to Payment of Unauthorized Medical Expenses Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 12-91, VAOPGCPREC 12-91, 1991 PREC 13-91 Entitlement of Veterans to Drugs & Medicines under 38 USC 612(h) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 13-91, VAOPGCPREC 13-91, 1991 PREC 14-91 Transportation of Volunteers Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 14-91, VAOPGCPREC 14-91, 1991 PREC 15-91 Legal Authority to Contract for Guard Services Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 15-91, VAOPGCPREC 15-91, 1991 PREC 16-91 Parental Consent for Surgery on a Minor Veteran Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 16-91, VAOPGCPREC 16-91, 1991 PREC 17-91 Home Dialysis Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 17-91, VAOPGCPREC 17-91, 1991 PREC 18-91 Authority of VA to inspect Packages Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 18-91, VAOPGCPREC18-91, 1991 PREC 19-91 Removal of Automobiles from VA Grounds Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 19-91, VAOPGCPREC 19-91, 1991 PREC 20-91 Statute of Limitations for Claims against the General Post Fund Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 20-91, VAOPGCPREC 20-91, 1991 PREC 21-91 Dental Service under 38 USC § 612(b) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 21-91, VAOPGCPREC 21-91, 1991 PREC 22-91 Autopsy on Veteran who dies outside VA Facility while in Post-Hospital Care Status Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 22-91, VAOPGCPREC 22-91, 1991 PREC 23-91 Community Contract Nursing Home Program Additional Payments Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 23-91, VAOPGCPREC 23-91, 1991 PREC 24-91 Use of Cooperative Living/Therapeutic Community Facilities Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 24-91, VAOPGCPREC 24-91, 1991 PREC 25-91 Donation of Kidneys for Transplant Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 25-91, VAOPGCPREC 25-91, 1991 PREC 26-91 Advisory Committee on Cemeteries & Memorials - Interpret 38 USC 1001 [now 2301] - Cong Rpt 030-91 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 26-91, VAOPGCPREC 26-91, 1991 PREC 27-91 Application of 38 USC 210 ( c)(3)(A) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 27-91, VAOPGCPREC 27-91, 1991 PREC 28-91 Provision of Drugs & Medicines to Residents of State Veterans Homes Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 28-91, VAOPGCPREC 28-91, 1991 PREC 29-91 Change of Use of State Nursing Home Care Units Constructed with Grant Funds Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 29-91, VAOPGCPREC 29-91, 1991 PREC 30-91 Applicability of Limitations of 38 USC § 601 [now § 1701](4)( c)(iii) to Puerto Rico Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 30-91, VAOPGCPREC 30-91, 1991 PREC 31-91 Interpretation of 38 USC 618 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 31-91, VAOPGCPREC 31-91, 1991 PREC 32-91 Hospital Based Home Care Program for Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation - Home Renovations 38 USC § 617 [now § 1717] Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 32-91, VAOPGCPREC 32-91, 1991 PREC 33-91 Juvenile Offenses occurring on VA Property Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 33-91, VAOPGCPREC 33-91, 1991 PREC 34-91 Provision of Additional Water and/or Electrical Service for Home Dialysis Patients Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 34-91, VAOPGCPREC 34-91, 1991 PREC 35-91 Continued Hospitalization of a Veteran Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 35-91, VAOPGCPREC 35-91, 1991 PREC 36-91 Application for an Automobile Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 36-91, VAOPGCPREC 36-91, 1991 PREC 37-91 Responsibility to Return Competent Patients to the Hospital Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 37-91, VAOPGCPREC 37-91, 1991 PREC 38-91 VI State Home Construction Overruled by PREC 55-91 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 38-91, VAOPGCPREC 38-91, 1991 PREC 39-91 Banking Facilities in VA Hospital Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 39-91, VAOPGCPREC 39-91, 1991 PREC 40-91 Authority to Limit the provision of Outpatient Services under 38 USC 109 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 40-91, VAOPGCPREC 40-91, 1991 PREC 41-91 Furnishing Drugs & Medicines Prescribed by Private Physicians -38 USC § 612 [now § 1712] (h) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 41-91, VAOPGCPREC 41-91, 1991 PREC 42-91 Establishment of Exercise Programs at VA Medical Centers for VA Employees Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 42-91, VAOPGCPREC 42-91, 1991 PREC 43-91 VA Prosthetic & Medical Equipment Loan Program - Consequences of Damage to Loaned Equipment - 38 USC § 1902 [now § 3902] to Veterans Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 43-91, VAOPGCPREC 43-91, 1991 PREC 44-91 Guardianship Policy - Advice given by VA Social Workers Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 44-91, VAOPGCPREC 44-91, 1991 PREC 45-91 Automobile Allowance under 38 USC 1902(a) for a Leased Automobile Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 45-91, VAOPGCPREC 45-91, 1991 PREC 46-91 Taking of Patients' blood, urine & breath specimens for Drug & Alcohol Analysis for Admittance to & while in a VA Domiciliary Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 46-91, VAOPGCPREC 46-91, 1991 PREC 47-91 Applicability of State Laws to VA Facilities in Massachusetts administering Psychotropic Drugs Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 47-91, VAOPGCPREC 47-91, 1991 PREC 48-91 Legal Liability in providing References for Staff Appts . Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 48-91, VAOPGCPREC 48-91, 1991 PREC 49-91 Patient Meal Preparation Program as a form of Rehabilitation Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 49-91, VAOPGCPREC 49-91, 1991 PREC 50-91 Protection of Service-Connection for a non-existent Disability - 38 USC 359 [now 1159] Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 50-91, VAOPGCPREC 50-91, 1991 PREC 51-91 Reimbursement of costs incurred by a Veteran's Wife in the Prepurchase of a Veteran's Headstone under 38 USC 906 [now 2306](d) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 51-91, VAOPGCPREC 51-91, 1991 PREC 52-91 Setoff of Federal Tort Claims Act Damages under 38 USC 351 [now 1151] Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 52-91, VAOPGCPREC 52-91, 1991 PREC 53-91 Requirement of a Supplemental Statement of the case following remand by Court of Veterans Appeals Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 53-91, VAOPGCPREC 53-91, 1991 PREC 54-91 Reporting Waived Loan Guaranty Debts to the IRS Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 54-91, VAOPGCPREC 54-91, 1991 PREC 55-91 Virgin Islands - State Home Construction Overruled by Prec 38-91 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 55-91, VAOPGCPREC 55-91, 1991 PREC 56-91 Spouse's Period Eligibility for Dependent's Educational Assistance Allowance- 38 USC 1712 (b)/(d) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 56-91, VAOPGCPREC 56-91, 1991 PREC 57-91 Eligibility for Burial Benefits based on Service in Amer Merchant Marine - Period for Submission of Claims Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 57-91, VAOPGCPREC 57-91, 1991 PREC 58-91 Meaning of "Legal Impediment" for Purposes of Deemed Valid Marriage under 38 USC 103(a) - Common Law Marriage Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 58-91, VAOPGCPREC 58-91, 1991 PREC 59-91 Reduction of Compensation during Incarceration 38 USC 3113 [now 5313] - Community Control Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 59-91, VAOPGCPREC 59-91, 1991 PREC 60-91 Public Law 101-625 - RESPA Amendments Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 60-91, VAOPGCPREC 60-91, 1991 PREC 61-91 Effect of a discharge under Dishonorable Conditions on Eligibility for Gratuitous Veterans' Benefits based on a prior period of Honorable Service Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 61-91, VAOPGCPREC 61-91, 1991 PREC 62-91 Consideration of VA Compensation Benefits in computation of Tax credits Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 62-91, VAOPGCPREC 62-91, 1991 PREC 63-91 Immunity from Liability under 38 USC 4116 [now 7316] & 28 USC 2679 XXXXX Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 63-91, VAOPGCPREC 63-91, 1991 PREC 64-91 Estates of Incompetent Veterans - Implementation of 38 USC 5505 & 38 CFR 13.109 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 64-91, VAOPGCPREC 64-91, 1991 PREC 65-91 Electronic Claims & Facsimile Documents as Evidence Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 65-91, VAOPGCPREC 65-91, 1991 PREC 66-91 Evaluation of Separately Ratable Disabilities Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 66-91, VAOPGCPREC 66-91, 1991 PREC 67-91 Recoupment of Disability Severance Pay from Disability Compensation Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 67-91, VAOPGCPREC 67-91, 1991 PREC 68-91 Clear & Unmistakable Error, Change in Diagnosis; Minimum Rating for Multiple Sclerosis Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 68-91, VAOPGCPREC 68-91, 1991 PREC 69-91 Retroactive Payment of Chapter 35 due to Establishment of Service Connection for non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 69-91, VAOPGCPREC 69-91, 1991 PREC 70-91 Reconsiderations by the Board of Veterans Appeals Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 70-91, VAOPGCPREC 70-91, 1991 PREC 71-91 Scope of 38 CFR 3.105(e) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 71-91, VAOPGCPREC 71-91, 1991 PREC 72-91 Interpretation of 38 USC 3681(a)(1) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 72-91, VAOPGCPREC 72-91, 1991 PREC 73-91 Effect on Pension Eligibility of Transfer of Assets into a Trust Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 73-91, VAOPGCPREC 73-91, 1991 PREC 74-91 Insurance Coverage Information Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 74-91, VAOPGCPREC 74-91, 1991 PREC 75-91 Unemployability due to Service-Connected Disability Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 75-91, VAOPGCPREC 75-91, 1991 PREC 1-90 Presumptive Service Connection - Heriditofamilial Disease - 38 CFR § 3.309 Citation: Vet. Aff.Op. Gen. Couns. Prec. 1-90, VAOPGCPREC 1-90, 1990 PREC 2-90 Administrative Error Decisions - 38 CFR § 3500(b)(2), 38 USC § 3012(b)(9) - (10) Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen. Couns. 2-90, VAOPGCPREC 2-90, 1990 PREC 3-90 Reduction of Benefits Pursuant to 38 USC §§ 3.113 & 505 - Not Guilty, InsanityCitation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 3-90,VAOPGCPREC 3-90, 1990 PREC 4-90 Offset of Medal of Honor Pension for Purposes of Collecting Debts due DVA Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 4-90,VAOPGCPREC 4-90, 1990 PREC 5-90 Waiver of Indebtedness Originally issued 3/21/89 as PREC 8-89 Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 5-90,VAOPGCPREC 5-90, 1990 PREC 6-90 Transfer of Residential Properties acquired under the Loan Guaranty Program to VHS&RA Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 6-90,VAOPGCPREC 6-90, 1990 PREC 7-90 Improved Pension Rate for Estranged Married Veterans - Application of 38 USC § 521 [now 1521](f)Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 7-90,VAOPGCPREC 7-90, 1990 PREC 8-90 VA Disposition of Residential Real Property owned by other Federal Agencies or Related Entities Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 8-90,VAOPGCPREC 8-90, 1990 PREC 9-90 Definition of Radiogenic Disease as used in 38 USC § 312(c)(2) & 38 CFR § 3.311(b)(2)Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 9-90,VAOPGCPREC 9-90, 1990 PREC 10-90 Reserve Disability Pay under 38 USC § 204 (g), (h) & (i) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 10-90,VAOPGCPREC 10-90, 1990 PREC 11-90 Administrative Allowances by Board of Veterans AppealsCitation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 11-90,VAOPGCPREC 11-90, 1990 PREC 12-90 Waiver of Loan Guaranty Indebtedness following a Deed in lieu of Foreclosure Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 12-90,VAOPGCPREC 12-90, 1990 PREC 13-90 Application of Recoveries from Health Insurance to Category C Debts - Means Tests Citation:Vet. Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 13-90,VAOPGCPREC 13-90, 1990 PREC 14-90 Secretary's Authority to Comply with certain conditions specified in AHT VI Loan Sale Agreement Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 14-90,VAOPGCPREC 14-90, 1990 PREC 15-90 Benefit Determination involving Validity of Marriage of Transsexual VeteransCitation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 15-90,VAOPGCPREC 15-90, 1990 PREC 16-90 Active Duty Service Eligibility for the Work-Study Allowance Program - 38 USC § 1685 [now § 3484]Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 16-90,VAOPGCPREC 16-90, 1990 PREC 17-90 Time Period for Filing Claims for Reimbursement of Plat, Transportation & Headstone Expenses Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 17-90,VAOPGCPREC 17-90, 1990 PREC 18-90 Line of Duty Determination - Unauthorized Absence Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 18-90,VAOPGCPREC 18-90, 1990 PREC 19-90 Applicability of P.L. 101-237 § 111 to § 306 PensionCitation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 19-90,VAOPGCPREC 19-90, 1990 PREC 20-90 Deemed Valid Marriage - 38 USC 103(a) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 20-90,VAOPGCPREC 20-90, 1990 PREC 21-90 Effective Date for Adjustment of Improved Pension Benefits based on change of Income due to Social Security COLAs Citation:et.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 21-90,VAOPGCPREC 21-90, 1990 PREC 22-90 Reconsideration of Final Waiver Decision in Light of P.L. 101-237 - Pre 12/18/89 Waiver Decisions [overturned by Franklin v. Brown, No. 91-2002 (U.S. Vet. App. June 4, 1993]Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 22-90,VAOPGCPREC 22-90, 1990 PREC 23-90 Income for Improved Pension Purposes Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 23-90,VAOPGCPREC 23-90, 1990 PREC 24-90 Validity of Military Enlistment - Discharge under Honorable Conditions with Active Duty shown as Zero Days Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 24-90,VAOPGCPREC 24-90, 1990 PREC 25-90 Active Duty for VA Benefits - Reserve Duty as Flight Instructor Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 25-90,VAOPGCPREC 25-90, 1990 PREC 26-90 Concurrent Notice of Termination or Suspension of Educational Benefits - 38 USC § 1790 [now § 3690](b)(92) -Defective Notice Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 26-90,VAOPGCPREC 26-90, 1990 PREC 27-90 Determination of Basic Entitlement - 38 USC § 1661 [now § 3461](a) - "Corresponding Days"Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 27-90,VAOPGCPREC 27-90, 1990 PREC 28-90 Qualifying Service needed to obtain the Maximum Educational Assistance Entitlement Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 28-90,VAOPGCPREC 28-90, 1990 PREC 29-90 Waiver of Education Loan Indebtedness Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 29-90,VAOPGCPREC 29-90, 1990 PREC 30-90 Correct Interpretation of 38 USC 1673( c) & VAR 14233(C)(1) - Open Circuit TV Courses Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 30-90,VAOPGCPREC 30-90, 1990 PREC 31-90 Preservation of Disability Ratings - 38 USC 110 Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 31-90,VAOPGCPREC 31-90, 1990 PREC 32-90 Clarification of Work-study supervision for Outreach Activities Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 32-90,VAOPGCPREC 32-90, 1990 PREC 33-90 Education Loan - P&T Disability Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 33-90,VAOPGCPREC 33-90, 1990 PREC 34-90 Bankruptcy Procedures - Education Overpayments Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 34-90,VAOPGCPREC 34-90, 1990 PREC 35-90 Limitations on Educational Assistance under 38 USC § 1781 [now § 3681] Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 35-90,VAOPGCPREC 35-90, 1990 PREC 36-90 Limitations on Educational Assistance under 38 USC § 1781 [now § 3681] limitations - internships/residences Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 36-90,VAOPGCPREC 36-90, 1990 PREC 37-90 Applicability of Government Employees Training Act as a Limitation under 38 USC § 1781 [now § 3681] to payment of Educational Assistance Allowance Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 37-90,VAOPGCPREC 37-90, 1990 PREC 38-90 Liability of Training Establishment for Overpayments Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 38-90,VAOPGCPREC 38-90, 1990 PREC 39-90 Payments for CLEP Tests Administration Fees Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 39-90,VAOPGCPREC 39-90, 1990 PREC 40-90 Payment of Educational Assistance Allowances to Individuals participating in the Health Professions Scholarship Program Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 40-90,VAOPGCPREC 40-90, 1990 PREC 41-90 Continuity of Service within the Meaning of VA Regulation 11040 Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 41-90,VAOPGCPREC 41-90, 1990 PREC 42-90 Non-application of 38 USC § 1789 [now § 3689](b)(4) - Combination Residence & off-campus training Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 42-90,VAOPGCPREC 42-90, 1990 PREC 43-90 Work-study Supervision - Proper Utilization & Supervision of Veteran-Students Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 43-90,VAOPGCPREC 43-90, 1990 PREC 44-90 Application of NC Sales tax to sales of Books & Supplies to VA Vocational Rehabilitation Students Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 44-90,VAOPGCPREC 44-90, 1990 PREC 45-90 Application of Dual Compensation to Veteran-Student Services Program Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 45-90,VAOPGCPREC 45-90, 1990 PREC 46-90 Application of 38 USC § 1775 [now § 3675] & VAR 14200 & 14280 [now 38 CFR § 21.4200 & 21.4280] Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. .46-90,VAOPGCPREC 46-90, 1990 PREC 47-90 Utilization of a Work-study Veteran Student to Provide Transportation to Service-Disabled [Chapter 31] Service-disabled veteran Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 47-90,VAOPGCPREC 47-90, 1990 PREC 48-90 Prison Training Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 48-90,VAOPGCPREC 48-90, 1990 PREC 49-90 Discontinuance of Educational Benefits Payments Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 49-90,VAOPGCPREC 49-90, 1990 PREC 50-90 Eligibility for Educational Benefits under Chapter 32 - 12 month Participation Restriction Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 50-90,VAOPGCPREC 50-90, 1990 PREC 51-90 School Liability - School vs. Veteran Liability Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 51-90,VAOPGCPREC 51-90, 1990 PREC 52-90 Application of 38 USC § 1781 [now § 3681] to the related Instruction Portion of Apprenticeship or OJT Program Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 52-90,VAOPGCPREC 52-90, 1990 PREC 53-90 School Liability - Reporting Requirements Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 53-90,VAOPGCPREC 53-90, 1990 PREC 54-90 38 USC § 1673 [now § 3473](a)(2) - Enrollment Limitation Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 54-90,VAOPGCPREC 54-90, 1990 PREC 55-90 Interpretation of 38 USC § 1784 [now § 3684] and § 1785 [now § 3685] & Va Regulations 14009 & 14209 Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 55-90,VAOPGCPREC 55-90, 1990 PREC 56-90 Combination Residence - Correspondence Courses Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 56-90,VAOPGCPREC 56-90, 1990 PREC 57-90 Definition of "Proprietary Educational Institution" in 38 USC 1673(d) excludes Military Aero Flight Clubs operated as Federal Instrumentalities Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 57-90,VAOPGCPREC 57-90, 1990 PREC 58-90 War Orphan Benefits for the Children of New Philippine Army Scouts who have elected to receive Lump-Sum BEC Benefits Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 58-90,VAOPGCPREC 58-90, 1990 PREC 59-90 Power of Attorney to Flight School to Cash Government Checks for Educational Assistance Allowance Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 59-90,VAOPGCPREC 59-90, 1990 PREC 60-90 Entitlement to Special Monthly Compensation pursuant to 38 USC 314, Specially Adapted Housing pursuant to 38 USC 801, and Adaptive Equipment pursuant to 38 USC 1901 Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 60-90,VAOPGCPREC 60-90, 1990 PREC 61-90 Reconsideration of OGC PREC 15-56 that Minor Stepchild Serving in Military not Member of Veteran's Household Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 61-90,VAOPGCPREC 61-90, 1990 PREC 62-90 Waiver of National Service Life Insurance Premiums under 38 USC 712 Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 62-90,VAOPGCPREC 62-90, 1990 PREC 63-90 Benefits for Blind Veterans under 38 USC § 614 [now § 1714] - Equality for Economically Handicapped Citation: Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 63-90,VAOPGCPREC 63-90, 1990 PREC 64-90 Payment Provision Pub.L. 87-574 § 2 - 38 USC § 618 [now § 1718] Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 64-90,VAOPGCPREC 64-90, 1990 PREC 65-90 Concurrent Payment of Employees' Compensation to Widow & Dependency & Indemnity Compensation (DIC) to Child when he attains Age 18 - BEC & DIC - Child in School Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 65-90,VAOPGCPREC 65-90, 1990 PREC 66-90 Protection of Ratings for Defective Hearing under superseded criteria [overruled by Fugere v. Derwinski, 1 Vet. App. 103 (1990) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 66-90,VAOPGCPREC 66-90, 1990 PREC 67-90 Congenital/Developmental Conditions under 38 CFR 3.303(C) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 67-90,VAOPGCPREC 67-90, 1990 PREC 68-90 Applicability of 38 USC § 410 [now § 1310](b) where Total Disability may have Preceded Effective Date of total Disability Rating Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 68-90,VAOPGCPREC 68-90, 1990 PREC 69-90 Application of Change in Law during Pendency of Appeal - BVA Authority to decide Radiation Case using Criteria superseded by 38 CFR § 3.311(b) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 69-90,VAOPGCPREC 69-90, 1990 PREC 70-90 Countablity for Improved Pension Purposes of Interest Accrued on Retirement Annuity Accounts (IRAs) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 70-90,VAOPGCPREC 70-90, 1990 PREC 71-90 Treatment of Tribal per capita Payments for Increased Pension Purposes Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 71-90,VAOPGCPREC 71-90, 1990 PREC 72-90 Trust Property, Countable Income & Net Worth Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 72-90,VAOPGCPREC 72-90, 1990 PREC 73-90 Scope of 38 USC § 360 [now 1160] in relation to 38 USC § 351 [now §1151] Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 73-90,VAOPGCPREC 73-90, 1990 PREC 74-90 Discontinuance of apportionment due to Divorce Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 74-90,VAOPGCPREC 74-90, 1990 PREC 75-90 Entitlement to Service-Connected Benefits Where Disability or Death is Compensable under 38 USC § 360 [now § 1160] vs. under 38 USC § 410 [now § 1310](b) & § 412 "As if" Service-Connected Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 75-90,VAOPGCPREC 75-90, 1990 PREC 76-90 Income from Lands held in Trust by Federal Government for Indian Tribes - Countability for VA Pension Purposes Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 76-90,VAOPGCPREC 76-90, 1990 PREC 77-90 Period of Eligibility for Insurance -Secondary Service-connection - New Eligibility for SDVI Citation: Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 77-90,VAOPGCPREC 77-90, 1990 PREC 78-90 Effect of Veteran's Election to receive Military Retirement Pay on Surviving Spouse's Entitlement to DIC under 38 USC 410(b) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 78-90,VAOPGCPREC 78-90, 1990 PREC 79-90 Offset of Survivors Benefits [DIC] under 38 USC § 351 [now § 1151] Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 79-90,VAOPGCPREC 79-90, 1990 PREC 80-90 Interpretation of 38 USC § 351 [now § 1151] in relation to 38 USC § 410(b) [now § 1310] eligibility Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 80-90,VAOPGCPREC 80-90, 1990 PREC 81-90 Mineral Lease Income Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 81-90,VAOPGCPREC 81-90, 1990 PREC 82-90 Congenital/Developmental conditions under 38 CFR 3.303(c )Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 82-90,VAOPGCPREC 82-90, 1990 PREC 83-90 Course Substitution by Institution - 38 USC § 1782 [now § 3682] Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 83-90,VAOPGCPREC 83-90, 1990 PREC 84-90 Statute of Limitations on Education Loans Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 84-90,VAOPGCPREC 84-90, 1990 PREC 85-90 Waived Income for Pension Purposes - Withdrawal of Social Security Application Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 85-90,VAOPGCPREC 85-90, 1990 PREC 86-90 Entitlement to Serivce-Connected Disability Benefits for Heart Attack Sustained during Inactive Duty Training Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 86-90,VAOPGCPREC 86-90, 1990 PREC 87-90 Veterans' Job Training Act (VJTA - Pub .L. 98-77) & Veterans' Home Loan Program & Improvement Act of 1987 (Pub.L. 100-198) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 87-90,VAOPGCPREC 87-90, 1990. PREC 88-90 Effective Date of Compensation under 38 U.S.C § 314 [now § 1114(k)] Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 88-90,VAOPGCPREC 88-90, 1990 PREC 89-90 Reconsiderations by the Board of Veterans Appeals Pursuant to 38 U.S.C.§ 4003 Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 89-90,VAOPGCPREC 89-90, 1990 PREC 90-90 Inference of Marriage of a Veteran's Child- Can additional compensation be denied under 38 CFR § 3.500 Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 90-90,VAOPGCPREC 90-90, 1990 PREC 91-90 Interest Rate Limitation under Soldiers' & Sailors' Civil Relief Act Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 91-90,VAOPGCPREC 91-90, 1990 PREC 92-90 Application of Manufactured Home Downpayment Requirement to Continuation of Liability Cases Citation: Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec92-90,VAOPGCPREC 92-90, 1990 PREC 93-90 Entitlement to Special Monthly Compensation for Anatomical Loss of A Creative Organ Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 93-90,VAOPGCPREC 93-90, 1990 PREC 94-90 Total Rating Requirement for Specially Adapted Housing under 38 USC § 801 [now § 2101](a) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 94-90,VAOPGCPREC 94-90, 1990 PREC 95-90 Eligibility of Refinancing Loan for Guaranty Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 95-90,VAOPGCPREC 95-90, 1990 PREC 96-90 Vendee Loan Sales Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 96-90,VAOPGCPREC 96-90, 1990 PREC 97-90 Review of Refunding Decision -not question of fact or law per 38 USC § 211 [now § 5111](a)(1) Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 97-90,VAOPGCPREC 97-90, 1990 PREC 98-90 Eligibility for Waiver of IndebtednessCitation: Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 98-90,VAOPGCPREC 98-90, 1990 PREC 99-90 Benefits under 38 CFR § 3.358( c) for HIV infection acquired through Blood Transfusion Citation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 99-90,VAOPGCPREC 99-90, 1990 PREC 100-90 Impact of P.L. 101-237 on 38 USC § 362 - Clothing AllowanceCitation:Vet.Aff.Op.Gen.Couns.Prec. 100-90,VAOPGCPREC 100-90, 1990 VAOPGCPREC 1-89 Eligibility for Educational Benefits under 10 U.S.C. § 106 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 1-89, VAOPGCPREC 1-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 2-89 Commencement of Payment in Reopened Claims for Improved Pension Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 2-89, VAOPGCPREC 2-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 3-89 Constitutionality of § 7(b)(3) of the Emergency Veterans' Job Training Act of 1983 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 3-89, VAOPGCPREC 3-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 4-89 Gifts & Inheritances of Property as Improved Pension Income; Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 4-89, VAOPGCPREC 4-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 5-89 Entitlement to Special Monthly Compensation for Anatomical Loss of a Creative Organ following Elective Sterilization Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 5-89, VAOPGCPREC 5-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 6-89 Improved Pension Income -- Deduction of Expenses for Last Illness, Burial & Just Debts; Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 6-89, VAOPGCPREC 6-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 7-89 Revision of Neuropsychiatric Disorder Rating Codes Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 7-89, VAOPGCPREC 7-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 8-89 VA Loan Guaranty Program Compliance with National Environmental Policy Act of 1969; Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 8-89, VAOPGCPREC 8-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 9-89 Time Period for Filing Claim for Burial Benefits for Death from Service-Connected Disability Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 9-89, VAOPGCPREC 9-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 10-89 Treatment of Provisional Income -- Improved Pension Program Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 10-89, VAOPGCPREC 10-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 11-89 Eligibility for Burial in a National Cemetery Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 11-89, VAOPGCPREC 11-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 12-89 Treatment of Alaskan Native & Tribal Income for Improved Pension Purposes Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 12-89, VAOPGCPREC 12-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 13-89 Criteria for Independent Dose Reconstruction Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 13-89, VAOPGCPREC 13-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 14-89 Applicability of Rationan-Risk Presumption to Personnel on Active Duty for Training; Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 14-89, VAOPGCPREC 14-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 15-89 Effective Date for Improved-Pension Purposes based on Change in Income Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 15-89, VAOPGCPREC 15-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 16-89 Application of 38 C.F.R. § 3.951 & Entitlement to Special Monthly Compensation; Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 16-89, VAOPGCPREC 16-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 17-89 Treatment of Gambling Losses under the Improved-Pension ProgramCitation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 17-89, VAOPGCPREC 17-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 18-89 Entitlement to Burial Benefits following change in Law - Pub. L. No. 95-202; Pub. L. No. 100-321 Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 18-89, VAOPGCPREC 18-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 19-89 Applicability of Statutory Limintation on Attorneys' Fees at 38 U.S.C. §§ 3404 and 3405 to Administrative Debt-Collection Matters Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 19-89, VAOPGCPREC 19-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 20-89 Proper Interpretation of 38 U.S.C. § 1781(a); Citation: Vet. Aff. Op. Gen Couns. Prec. 20-89, VAOPGCPREC 20-89, 1989 VAOPGCPREC 6-1987 (7/27/1987) Character of Discharge: Juvenile Offenses as Moral Turpitude View full record

If you disagree with a VA decision, you or your representative can request a new review of your case by a higher-level reviewer. The reviewer will determine whether an error or a difference of opinion changes the decision. You can’t submit new evidence with a Higher-Level Review. Source: VA.gov Can I request a Higher-Level Review? You can request a Higher-Level Review of an initial claim or Supplemental Claim decision. You have 1 year from the date of your decision letter to request a Higher-Level Review. Note: You can’t request a Higher-Level Review after a previous Higher-Level Review or Board Appeal on the same claim. And you can’t request a Higher-Level Review if you have a contested claim. A contested claim is when you and someone else claim a benefit that only one person can claim. You have 60 days to appeal to a Veterans Law Judge at the Board of Veterans’ Appeals in Washington, D.C. A judge who’s an expert in Veterans law will review your case. Learn more about contested claims. How long does a Higher-Level Review take? Our goal for completing claims unrelated to health care benefits is an average of 125 days (4 to 5 months). Note: If you ask for an informal conference as part of your Higher-Level Review, it may take us longer to complete. Instead, you may want to consider submitting a written statement with your application to tell us about the errors you’ve identified. This will help us make a decision faster. What’s an informal conference? An informal conference is a call with the higher-level reviewer for your case. If you choose to have an informal conference, the reviewer will call to schedule a time to discuss your case with you. They’ll call the phone number that you provided on the Higher-Level Review form. During the call, you or your representative can identify errors and discuss why you think the decision should change. You can’t submit new evidence. If no one answers when the higher-level reviewer calls, they’ll leave a voicemail. If they can’t leave a message or make contact after 2 attempts, they’ll review and decide your case without an informal conference. How do I ask for an informal conference? If you want a call with a higher-level reviewer, you must choose the informal conference option when you request a Higher-Level Review. You’ll need to choose either a morning or afternoon time frame for your call. You’ll also need to choose whether you want us to call you or your representative. If you’d like us to call your representative, fill in their name and phone number. If you request a Higher-Level Review online, you can ask for an informal conference in step 3 of the online form. If you request a Higher-Level Review by mail or in person, you can ask for an informal conference by marking the circle in item 16A on VA Form 20-0996. Note: You can have only one informal conference for each Higher-Level Review. Ensure you have ready the information that you want to discuss with the reviewer. Prepare to explain any errors in your case. How do I request a Higher-Level Review? Submit your request online for a disability compensation claim Currently, a disability compensation claim is the only type of claim for which you can use our online Higher-Level Review form. Request a Higher-Level Review Note: For other types of claims, you’ll need to request a Higher-Level Review either by mail or in person. Submit your request by mail for any type of benefit claim Fill out the Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996). Get VA Form 20-0996 to download. Send the completed form to the benefit office that matches the benefit type you selected on the form. Disability compensation Department of Veterans Affairs Claims Intake Center PO Box 4444 Janesville, WI 53547-4444 Life insurance Department of Veterans Affairs Attention: Insurance Center PO Box 5209 Janesville, WI 53547 Pension and survivor benefits Department of Veterans Affairs Claims Intake Center PO Box 5365 Janesville, WI 53547-5365 Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) Department of Veterans Affairs Evidence Intake Center PO Box 5154 Janesville, WI 53547 Health care benefits and all other benefit types: Check the decision letter for your initial claim or application for instructions on submitting the form. Submit your request in person (only for claims that aren’t related to health care benefits) Fill out the Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996). Get VA Form 20-0996 to download. Bring your completed form to a VA regional office near you for claims unrelated to health care benefits. Find your nearest VA regional office. You can also ask a regional benefit office for a copy of this form. Or call us at 800-827-1000 (TTY: 711) to request a form. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET. Helpful information for filling out your form Keep reading for help completing certain sections of the Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996). Section III: Select a benefit type The most common benefit type is compensation. If you’re unsure, check your VA decision. You can’t select multiple benefit types. You have to complete a separate form for each type. Section VI: List the issues you want us to review You must list the issues you disagree with and the VA decision date for each. You can include all or just some of the issues we’ve decided on, but they must all be within the same benefit type. Note: You can’t submit any evidence. What if I have new and relevant evidence? If you have evidence to submit, please select another decision review option. Learn more about the decision review options What happens next? Find out what happens after you request a decision review You don’t need to do anything while you wait unless the VA sends you a letter asking for more information. If VA schedules exams for you, be sure not to miss them. If you’ve filed a request for a Higher-Level Review, we may randomly select you to receive an email with a short, optional survey. If selected, you’ll get a survey about a week after we receive your initial claim. You’ll get a second survey about a week after you receive your decision notification letter. You aren’t required to complete either survey, but your feedback will help us improve the decision-review process. It takes about 3 minutes to answer the questions. Please review your VA.gov profile to ensure we have your most recent email address. Find out how to update your email address What if the reviewer finds an error? This depends on what type of error they find. In some cases, the error changes the original decision. We’ll send you a new decision to let you know about this change. If the reviewer finds that we didn’t help you get all the evidence you needed for your claim, this is called a “duty-to-assist error.” We’ll close the review and open a new claim to gather the missing evidence to fix this error. We’ll also send you a letter to tell you the steps we’ll take to fix the error. Then we’ll help you get the missing evidence, and decide your case based on this new evidence. What if I need help? A Veterans Service Organization or VA-accredited attorney or agent can help you request a decision review. Get help requesting a decision review What if I have more questions? Get answers to frequently asked questions about decision reviews. Go to FAQs about decision reviews What if I get a Higher-Level Review decision that I disagree with? You can then file for a Board Appeal, which means your case gets reviewed by a Veterans Law Judge. You also have the option to file a Supplemental Claim if you have additional evidence you want to submit for review. View full record