ptsd Jimmer

[Jimmer]

Hi Guys, I am hoping you can give me answer to my IU claim.  I recently was award 50% for PTSD, along with 60% for my eyes (particularly my left eye) and was bumped to 80%.  I was sent the forms to apply for IU.  I went to my eye doctor (who is board certified) and asked him to fill out another  "nexus "letter.  He is very familiar with the VA procedures, having worked at a navel hospital in the west.  He was surprised and said "aren't you IU already".  I told him no, that the V.A. had rated me 60%  for my eyes he nearly fell on the floor. He said "this is wrong, you should be at least 80%, they really screwed up".  So he write me two letters,  to include in the package for IU.  That was December 11, 2015.  I received the BBE January 9, 2016, stating they rating me to 100%.  They also said the following (and I quote)  "A clear and mistakable error (CUE) is found in the evaluation of bilateral macular degeneration and bilateral pseudophakia, rated as residuals of left eye injury, and a increase of 80% is established December 12, 2014."  A VSO person told me in 17 years he never seen where the VA openly admitted to a CUE.  He said I should "frame the letter".   Will I receive retro pay from the date as specified.  The first page says $2,906.83 ( I have no dependents) states as of Jan. 1, 2015.    Thanks for your input, and all your help.  I speak for others, we would be lost without your guidance and input  

[Vync]

Jimmer,
Does your award letter mention anything about Dependent Educational Assistance (DEA) Chapter 35 benefits?

[Jimmer]

Vync:  Yes it does.  They sent me the information on it.  It is a very thick package I received.      

[iceturkee]

jimmer, if you are eligible for chapter 35 benefits, then you are permanent and total!!

[Jimmer]

iceturkee, I did receive information on Chapter 35 benefits, and an application as well.  Do they, the VA , send out a letter telling you that you are permanent and total?  I can't seem to find that saying in my packet.  They have also sent me the application to secure a Commissary Card, and CHAMPVA benefits, and a bunch of other benefits as well.  They indicated I should contact the state to see if their is any reduction or elimination of state fees, property taxes, licenses, etc.  

[broncovet]

Yes, you should get retro to your effective date. Ebenefits often makes it look like December is your effective date, when it may or may not be.  That is the last date we had an increase (Dec. 2014).  Your effective date COULD be before that you just have to wait for the BBE.  Did you get the envolope?  It should say the effective date and then you can estimate your retro.  YOur retro will "deduct" money you already got.  

[Gastone]

As of my 07/14 90%SC IU Award letter, It specifically listed "Total & Permanent" as well as "No Future Exams Scheduled."

Keep in mind, your IU Rating is Never Permanent, always subject to future review due to Earned Income Reports or you actually going back to work, earning more than the SGI level ($12 or $11,400 (age of 65) of income for 12 continuous months.

Semper Fi