Armand

Obesity is not covered in the DSM-IV TR. (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for mental disorders).

Thanks so much. I really appreciate it.

Thanks a million.

I am going to apply for Individual Unemployabilty due to my Type II diabetes. I am currently rated at 60%. I was wondering if anyone could give me suggestions on how strong of a letter my physician needs to provide to the VA to help my claim . Any help would be appreciated. Armand

Randall: I know what you mean about competent Vet Reps. A lot of the ones I have dealt with don't know their ass from a hole in the ground. Plus, their turnover rate is probably similar to MacDonald's. Thanks. Armand

Does anyone have anything positive to say about hiring a law firm that is knowledgeable in veteran's appeals? Good or bad, let me know.

I am currently writing a research paper on PTSD. Your experience concerning vision loss occurred as far back as the civil war and in the wars that followed. Vision loss was directly associated with experiencing a traumatic event, this resulting in PTSD.

Get as much medical documentation from your private physicians as you can. You need to have them write a letter stating that the severity of your physical ailments prevent you from working. The VA cannot dispute the medical evidence you submit to them.

My C&P checks for January and February did not reflect the COLA increase awarded in December 2007. Was wondering if anybody else had this problem. I notified the VA but haven't received any response yet. I know that shocks all of you.

Right on, but what story are you referring to?

Berta: I couldn't agree with you more. You get a different answer from them everytime you call about the same issue. They (VA reps) are poorly trained and "shoot from the hip" too often. Plus, I think they're overworked and are probably stressed out. Anyway, here's the regulation on my situation: e-CFR Data is current as of January 29, 2008 Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief PART 3—ADJUDICATION Concurrent Benefits and Elections Browse Previous | Browse Next § 3.710 Civil service annuitants. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits may be paid concurrently with civil service retirement benefits. However, payments will be considered income as provided in §3.262 (e) and (h). [29 FR 15208, Nov. 11, 1964] I never heard of "filing for reconsideration". How does that differ from the Decision Review Officer? Armand

You'd think so wouldn't you John? I already sent this regulation to my DAV Service Representative months ago. But, I swear, everytime I'm lucky enough to get through to someone at the DAV office, it's a new person. They must go through reps like shit through a goose. I've already sent in my NOD and am waiting to hear something from the DSO about a hearing. I should probably pass this info on to the entire web. Armand

e-CFR Data is current as of January 29, 2008 Here's what I found folks. I am a civil service annuitant, I am not receiving worker's compensation. Armand Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief PART 3—ADJUDICATION Concurrent Benefits and Elections Browse Previous | Browse Next § 3.710 Civil service annuitants. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits may be paid concurrently with civil service retirement benefits. However, payments will be considered income as provided in §3.262 (e) and (h). [29 FR 15208, Nov. 11, 1964]

Do you know where I can research this?? Thanks.

I was awarded TDIU by the review board. However, they have been "withholding" the difference in pay because they said it was a duplication of benefits because of my disability retirement from the post office. Oh, the issue was service connected.

Yes, that's correct. You must have been under FERS retirement. I cannot get SSDI because I was under CSRS.

I researched it and found the provisions in Title 38, Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief. Chapter 1 - Department of Veterans Affairs part 3, Adjudication paragraph 3.710, Civil Service Annuitants. § 3.710 Civil service annuitants. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits may be paid concurrently with VerDate Aug<04>2004 15:20 Aug 04, 2005 Jkt 205138 PO 00000 Frm 00328 Fmt 8010 Sfmt 8010 Y:\SGML\205138.XXX 205138 319 Department of Veterans Affairs § 3.714 civil service retirement benefits. However, payments will be considered income as provided in § 3.262 (e) and (h). [29 FR 15208, Nov. 11, 1964] This is what I was basing my opinion on. As John999 indicated, both can be collected. However, I have been struggling with these bastards for over a year. I know the VA is thinking I'm receiving Injury Compensation. Then, trying to talk to a service representative at the DAV in Cleveland is like trying to get an audience with the Pope. Thanks for your input, I appreciate it.

buickx: It's not social security. It's a disability retirement based on my contributions and years of service. It's from the Office of Personnel Management.

Thanks John.

Is there anyone out there that is getting BOTH Individual Unemployability and Disability Retirement from the federal government? If so, please contact me. Armand

Your GAF is Global Assessment Functioning. It is part of the Diagnostic and Statistic Manual IV (DSM-IV) that rates your overall mental condition. The higher the score, the better your functioning level. A rating of 50 isn't LOW enough to convince the VA for C&P. You should seek a GAF evaluation from a private psychologist or psychiatrist. Armand

Can a veteran receive Individual Unemployability from the VA and a disability pension concurrently from the federal government?