Securing disability benefits is a tough mission, and that’s especially true when you’ve already faced a denial or received a rating that’s too low. At Hill & Ponton, we focus on VA disability appeals and rating increases for veterans right here in Orlando. Our firm was founded by a veteran, so we know how intimidating the claims process can feel when the system seems stacked against you.
We’re VA appeals lawyers in Orlando, who have proudly represented countless disabled veterans in the city and thousands more nationwide to help them get the compensation they’re entitled to. It would be our honor to do the same for you. Don’t give up. Like any mission, the right resources and equipment can shift the odds in your favor.
VA Appeals Lawyers in Orlando Services
Below is a summary of the legal services our VA appeals attorneys in Orlando, FL, offer. Each one is designed to clear common obstacles Orlando veterans face:
- Appeals for claim denials: If your initial application was rejected, we’ll dig into the specifics of that denial and file the appropriate appeal.
- Requests to increase a disability rating: If you believe the rating assigned to your condition is too low, we’ll help you submit additional medical evidence or expert opinions that strengthen your case.
- TDIU: If your injuries prevent you from holding steady employment, you may qualify for TDIU benefits at the 100% rate, even if your combined ratings appear lower.
- Secondary service connections: Some veterans develop new conditions caused by existing service-related disabilities. We can help you prove these secondary issues so you receive fair compensation.
- Guidance on building strong medical documentation: Our firm collaborates with healthcare providers in the Orlando area to make sure your treatment records and examinations meet VA requirements.
Is It Worth Appealing a VA Disability Claim?
Is it worth appealing a VA disability claim? Absolutely. Hill & Ponton maintains a 96% success rate in handling appeals, and many Orlando veterans have seen significant benefits after challenging an unfair decision. Here’s why:
- Legal insights on shifting procedures: VA regulations change frequently, and staying current can make or break your claim.
- Less stress for you: Managing deadlines, gathering evidence, writing appeals and dealing with the VA can feel overwhelming. Legal help lessens that burden.
- Targeted case-building: Attorneys know what specific documents and medical opinions are needed to overcome denial reasons.
- Focus on Orlando-based veterans: We partner with medical specialists and volunteer groups that can help you strengthen your appeal.
How Long Does a VA Appeal Take With an Attorney?
The timeline for a VA appeal varies, but working with a veteran appeals lawyer in Orlando, FL, can expedite the process. Let’s compare your options:
Going it alone: Some veterans spend over 2 years on repeated submissions. Each time the VA requests more evidence, the clock resets.
Working with a VA appeal lawyer in Orlando, FL: By organizing medical records early, we avoid wasted time. We also know which appeal path best fits your case. While results differ based on your unique circumstances, we streamline the process by submitting strong evidence from the start.
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Why Claims Get Rejected
It’s frustrating to receive a denial letter, especially after you’ve already provided what felt like a mountain of information. Before we explore the top reasons for rejection, let’s discuss nexus, which is a word the VA uses to describe the link between your military service and your current disability. If that nexus is weak or missing, denials often follow. Here are five common pitfalls:
- Lack of evidence: Claims that lack up-to-date records or professional evaluations frequently get denied.
- Mistakes: Even small errors in forms or late submissions can derail your case. Having VA claim appeal lawyers in Orlando, FL, to catch errors can help you win your appeal.
- Weak or absent nexus: If there’s no documented link between your injury and your time in the military, the VA may deny your claim outright.
- Misjudgment from the VA: Sometimes, the VA recognizes your condition but underestimates its severity.
Successful Appeals for Our Orlando Veterans
What are the chances of winning an appeal with the VA? Much higher when you meet key criteria. Here’s what the VA looks for:
- A current, diagnosed condition
- A solid nexus establishing the connection between your diagnosis and the in-service event is vital, such as a medical opinion that establishes that you’re facing toxic exposure or PTSD
- Complete forms and records
- Timely follow-through
Types of Appeals
When a rating decision feels unfair, you have several ways to contest it:
- Supplemental claim: You submit new evidence (think updated medical exams) that wasn’t part of the original application.
- Higher-level review: A senior VA official looks at your existing file for any errors or oversights. No extra evidence is allowed here.
- Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA): You can request a hearing or opt for a direct review. This step offers a deeper legal analysis of your case.
- Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC): If the BVA denies you, the CAVC reviews whether the VA followed laws and regulations correctly.
Disability Ratings and Compensation
Your disability rating affects how much financial assistance you receive each month, going from 0% to 100% in increments of 10%.
- What is a disability rating? It’s how the VA measures how severely your condition impairs everyday life or employability.
- Why does it matter? A higher rating often means larger monthly compensation and access to additional benefits.
- How is it calculated? If you have multiple conditions, the VA uses a combined ratings table, which may result in a lower total rating than you’d expect.
Here’s a breakdown of monthly amounts you might see at different combined ratings for a veteran with no dependents:
- 10%: $175.51
- 20%: $346.95
- 30%: $537.42
- 40%: $774.16
- 50%: $1,102.04
- 60%: $1,395.93
- 70%: $1,759.19
- 80%: $2,044.89
- 90%: $2,297.96
- 100%: $3,831.30
Estimate your potential benefits with our VA Disability Calculator or contact an Orlando VA lawyer now to discuss your options.
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Benefits for Veterans in Orlando
Below are a few local perks for veterans living in Orlando. Explore these options to supplement your VA disability payments:
- Orange County property tax exemptions: Veterans with certain disability ratings can qualify for reduced or waived property taxes.
- CareerSource Central Florida: Programs include resume-building workshops and networking events tailored to service members entering the civilian workforce.
- Education support: Public colleges and universities near Orlando may waive certain fees or offer scholarships to eligible veterans and their dependents. These programs can make higher education more accessible and affordable.
- Additional perks for 100% disabled veterans: Some veterans qualify for extra benefits, including special home loans or vehicle adaptations.
Resources for Orlando Veterans
VA Services in Orlando
Orlando veterans typically rely on the Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona for healthcare needs. It has outpatient clinics, mental health services and specialty care.
Keep in mind, the Veterans Benefits Administration handles financial claims and appeals, and the Veterans Health Administration oversees medical treatment.
For a full list of Florida VA offerings, visit the VA.gov directory.
Though Orlando doesn’t have a large active-duty base, local support sites can be helpful.
Some veterans in high-tech fields find job leads or transitional resources at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Orlando.
Veterans Organizations
Below are a few nonprofits that go beyond standard VA offerings to support local veterans.
- Camaraderie Foundation: Offers mental health counseling and mentoring programs for post-9/11 veterans and their families.
- Heart of Florida United Way: Provides housing support and job training to Orlando-area veterans in transition.
Orlando Area Veterans Clubs and Associations
- VFW Post 4287: Located on Goldenrod Road in Orlando, this post hosts regular meetups, fundraiser events and volunteer initiatives.
- American Legion Tinker Field Post 331: A historic Orlando post that focuses on community outreach and youth programs.
- DAV Chapter 16: Offers help with rides to medical appointments and resources for disabled veterans seeking financial or healthcare assistance.
Who Can Help Me With My VA Appeal in Orlando, FL?
Many Orlando veterans lean on nonprofits and community clubs for general guidance around VA benefits. These resources can be excellent for networking and basic assistance. Still, complex or time-sensitive issues often call for focused legal counsel.
If you’re ready to take your VA benefits appeal further, get in touch with a VA appeals lawyer in Orlando, FL. An experienced attorney can gather the evidence you need and advocate for the benefits you’ve put your life on the line for.