To Be Compensated For Service Connected Disabilities

[pacmanx1]

§ 3.151 Claims for disability benefits.

(a) General. A specific claim in the form prescribed by the Secretary must be filed in order for benefits to be paid to any individual under the laws administered by VA. (38 U.S.C. 5101(a)). A claim by a veteran for compensation may be considered to be a claim for pension; and a claim by a veteran for pension may be considered to be a claim for compensation. The greater benefit will be awarded, unless the claimant specifically elects the lesser benefit.

(b) Retroactive disability pension claims. Where disability pension entitlement is established based on a claim received by VA on or after October 1, 1984, the pension award may not be effective prior to the date of receipt of the pension claim unless the veteran specifically claims entitlement to retroactive benefits. The claim for retroactivity may be filed separately or included in the claim for disability pension, but it must be received by VA within one year from the date on which the veteran became permanently and totally disabled. Additional requirements for entitlement to a retroactive pension award are contained in §3.400(b) of this part.

The bottom line is, if the veteran does not file a claim, VA will not pay the veteran for any disability in his or her C-file or noted by medical records. Keep in mind that veterans are not doctors, they can file claims for: Back injury, knee injury, depression and not be specific. VA is supposed to examine the veteran and if warranted pay the veteran for his or her service connected condition(s) and not make up medical condition(s).

Hope this helps

Edited February 13, 2011 by pacmanx1