Phone Call From Rep

[Done wit this]

Today I received a call from the senior Counselor and the Man Told me that My Earlier Effective Date was Granted ..Thats back to 1994.... But they are still working on the Percentages on Both Shoulders to complete the Claims.I sent in Two - IMO's for the "percentages Appeals" one from my family Doctor and One complete Medical Evaluation from a specailist - Orthopedic Doctor with MRIs..The Doctors Opinions were much higher the the VA,s .. Makes Me feel better Knowing that they Granted the EED

:) B) :D ;) Macool

Edited February 23, 2009 by macool

[broncovet]

Mac

I know it is frustrating, but you will have to be patient. Use this time to really make a plan on what you are doing with your retro. Here is a "little trick" that may help you or other Veterans:

If your wife is working, and you get some money, you can put it into an IRA and claim a tax deduction even if you have already filed that years taxes. A hypothetical example:

You applied for benefits in 1994, and finaly get a retro check in March 2009. You have already filed your/your wifes joint tax return for 2008. You put $4000 in an IRA and specify it is for tax year 2008.

Then, you can file an amended return for 2008, and get back more tax refund money based on the tax deduction for the IRA contribution for 2008. My bookeeper says people do that all the time, and it is perfectly legal. For this year, the IRA contribution for 2008 has to be completed by April 15, 2009. I dont know if filing an extension extends the IRA contribution time or not, ask your bookeeper.

[Done wit this]

Yes this all sounds interesting,But I thought The VA retro or comp payments were not taxable.?

Now I am confused....

Wish they would do something besides put it off ...waiting for me to die..

[Pete53]

The VA money is tax free. I think bronco was talking about additional tax saving strategy.

Good Luck

[cowgirl]

MacCool, as far I understand, taxes can be amended up to five years. I'll look for the information for you. Also, seems like you arent military retired, so the retro will be really nice for you and your family - yay!

When I got my eed retro it was really really nice, but adjusted due to prior va waivered pay recieved for all those years. So, the 5 year tax amendment really matters to me too.

Va pay, compensation and retro, isnt taxable according to tax experts I know.

Oh, about two weeks after my decison I got a letter (on a weekend!) saying they paid me too much. After immediate research, was told letter was an error and nothing owed to them. Sure didnt take long for them to send the 'debt' letter after awarding the retro.

Again, I am sure happy for you and yours ~ !

Cowgirl,up2009!

[Berta]

Rick- have you checked with the NYSDVA office on this?

They had a shuffle due in part (I hope) to my 26 page complaint.

The guy now at Bath office was 'moved' back into the office where your rep used to be-

Although he was mentioned in my OGC complaint many times- he is seasoned rep and has access to the VARO-

nope none of the comp is taxable-

Have you also Irised them to get more info on that retro?

[Berta]

PS if you need phone numbers for Mrs Kloc or Donna Terrill let me know-