Denied VA benefits after 22 years of service... what now?

Hi everyone. I’ve served 22 years in the military and recently had two VA claims denied—one for high blood pressure and another for tinnitus. I’ve got written documentation of the denials, but I’m not sure what to do next. Anyone been through this? Any advice on how to appeal or strengthen my case would be great!

Yeah, I’ve been through this. For tinnitus, did you include anything linking it to your service, like exposure to loud environments?

Aris said:
Yeah, I’ve been through this. For tinnitus, did you include anything linking it to your service, like exposure to loud environments?

I mentioned being around loud machinery during service but didn’t submit any specific medical evidence. Should I get a doctor’s letter?

Aris said:
Yeah, I’ve been through this. For tinnitus, did you include anything linking it to your service, like exposure to loud environments?

Yeah, a medical nexus letter can really help. It links your condition to your service directly. Definitely worth getting.

Did the denial explain why they rejected your claims? Sometimes it’s about missing records or insufficient evidence.

Phoenix said:
Did the denial explain why they rejected your claims? Sometimes it’s about missing records or insufficient evidence.

They didn’t think my conditions were service-related. I guess I need more proof?

Phoenix said:
Did the denial explain why they rejected your claims? Sometimes it’s about missing records or insufficient evidence.

Yep. Request your VA claims file (C-File). It shows what evidence they reviewed. Could be a gap you can fill.

Have you tried working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO)? They’re free and know the system inside out.

Jordan said:
Have you tried working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO)? They’re free and know the system inside out.

Not yet, but I’ll look into it. Do you know where I can find one?

Jordan said:
Have you tried working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO)? They’re free and know the system inside out.

Check with your local VA office or online. VSOs are great for guiding you through the process.

If you’re appealing, consider submitting new evidence. The appeals process can be slow but often works.

Leighton said:
If you’re appealing, consider submitting new evidence. The appeals process can be slow but often works.

Thanks, I’ll give that a shot. How long does the appeals process usually take?

Leighton said:
If you’re appealing, consider submitting new evidence. The appeals process can be slow but often works.

Could be months or longer, honestly. But if you’ve got strong evidence, it’s worth the wait.

FYI, if the VA denied your claims, they might not have reviewed all your records. Double-check what they’ve got.

Orin said:
FYI, if the VA denied your claims, they might not have reviewed all your records. Double-check what they’ve got.

Good point. I’ll ask for my C-File to see if anything’s missing. Thanks!