I Don't Want to Look Greedy Here, But...

[Max Rommel]

I recently reported here that my AO claim for Prostate Cancer was approved, with a 100% rating. While I'm grateful for the award I have a question about the disability start date. I filed the claim online and submitted my evidence on May 21st. The VA has always acknowledged the filing date as May 21st. But when I received the decision letter it said the start date was June 1st, not May 21st. Is the VA correct? Are my disability payments effective on June 1st even though I filed my claim on May 21st? Thanks again everyone for your replies and expertise.

[broncovet]

Maybe I can explain.  Dont worry about "being greedy".  There is nothing wrong seeking benefits to which you deserve.  

Your compensation begins the first day of the month following your effective date.  The VA "does not" pro rate to pay you for a portion of a month.  You only get compensated for FULL months..not partial ones.  

Remember, too, VA compensation is paid "in arrears" not in advance like rent.  We are not paid for injuries "we think we will have next month" but rather those already suffered in the previous month.  

This means if your effective date is May 21, your first check will begin July 1.  Rememeber..no partial months, so it begins June 1, but its paid in arrears, so, for your first month,  you get paid for the month of June on July 1.  Everyone's is the same.  

     Remember, tho, VA makes mistakes.  So, if you want to post the decision (redact your name and address) we will know more, but this is likely what will happen.  

    

[jamescripps2]

Broncovet is correct. Back pay, for effective date purpose, is the first of the month following the month in which you filed your claim.