IU Since 2008 ..Have Question

[Aric]

I was rated IU in 2008 ,  80% paid at 100%.  I am not total and permanent.  So I have been on IU for 8 years and rating letter stated no further exams to be scheduled.  70 percent of my rating is Mental Health with recurrent alcohol abuse and 10% for right leg injury.  I am 45 years old I have a heart attack less than 2 years ago and this has added more to major depression.  I understand heart attack more than likely not service connected.  My question is would it be worth it for me to move forward and apply for total and permanent , since I am already rated at 80% paid at 100%.  I could take chance of losing IU altogether, and start being paid at 80% which is a lot less.  I am not sure how true this is but I was told the Vet Center could actually make the decision on there own.  Like said I doubt that the vet center could.  I was thinking in long run CHAMPVA would be of great help to my spouse and my conditions have not improved to me, but VA has there own way of seeing things.  Can anyone give me some opinions and is it worth it applying for permanent and total ?  thanks

[Chuck75]

It's generally worth the trouble to obtain a P&T rating, due to the additional federal and state benefits.  Have you obtained SSDI? This can help if the SSDI basis is service connected.

I'd likely try to get the heart problems SC'd, as you mentioned. If this takes a couple of years (Likely), it increases the chances that the VA will not attempt to reduce any of the existing awards.

There is a difference in the VA's regs and mind set that is related to less than 55 or more than 55.

[Aric]

I was approved for ssdi immediately as soon as my IU was awarded and I let social security know.  I have been on both for 8 years

[MPsgt]

2 hours ago, Aric said:

I was approved for ssdi immediately as soon as my IU was awarded and I let social security know.  I have been on both for 8 years

First, apply for P&T.  Second, a VetCenter cannot make a decision on P&T but, can provide a letter of support.  Being that you've received consistent treatment from them over the last eight years.  Third, P&T could very likely be granted in your favor.  If you can get your MH doctor/psychiatrist to place an IMO directly into your VA medical records.  The doctor must state that due to the severity of your SC disabilities.  It is of his/her medical opinion that your more likely than not, unable to maintain substantial gainful employment.  Furthermore, that your medical characteristics would warrant a decision of Permanent & Total.  Finally, you've got to show your disability has worsen or at the minimum stayed static.  JMO

[PO2 Shep]

I'm 100% t&p for ptsd. I filed for ssdi 7 months ago. They haven't asked me for a function report....Anyone know why?

[broncovet]

PO2 Shep

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