My husband is a veteran, and we’re trying to figure out how to get his benefits sorted out. He’s applied before, but his card expires soon. Anyone have advice or tips? We’ve been looking into stuff like Agent Orange exposure on Johnston Atoll since he was there, but the process seems overwhelming.
Same boat here, kind of. My dad’s a veteran, and the paperwork is ridiculous. Have you tried filing online through the VA eBenefits portal? That helped us.
Bliss said:
Same boat here, kind of. My dad’s a veteran, and the paperwork is ridiculous. Have you tried filing online through the VA eBenefits portal? That helped us.
We haven’t yet, but I’ll look into it. Is it straightforward, or do you need help navigating it?
Bliss said:
Same boat here, kind of. My dad’s a veteran, and the paperwork is ridiculous. Have you tried filing online through the VA eBenefits portal? That helped us.
It’s decent if you’ve got all the documents handy. Might take a while if you’re missing anything though.
If he was on Johnston Atoll, you might want to specifically mention Agent Orange exposure in the application. The VA has a list of conditions they recognize for that.
Hadi said:
If he was on Johnston Atoll, you might want to specifically mention Agent Orange exposure in the application. The VA has a list of conditions they recognize for that.
What’s the deal with Agent Orange exposure? I’ve heard of it, but IDK much about how it works for benefits.
Hadi said:
If he was on Johnston Atoll, you might want to specifically mention Agent Orange exposure in the application. The VA has a list of conditions they recognize for that.
Basically, Agent Orange was a herbicide used during the war, and it caused health issues. The VA now recognizes exposure on Johnston Atoll for certain years, which helps with claims.
Make sure you’ve got all the service and medical records ready. That’s key for getting through the application process without too much back and forth.
Lennon said:
Make sure you’ve got all the service and medical records ready. That’s key for getting through the application process without too much back and forth.
We’ve got some of it, but not all. Any tips on where to get missing records?
Lennon said:
Make sure you’ve got all the service and medical records ready. That’s key for getting through the application process without too much back and forth.
Check with the National Archives or even the VA directly. They can help track down old service records.
Honestly, I’d recommend working with a VSO (Veterans Service Officer). They’re free and know the system inside out.
Wynn said:
Honestly, I’d recommend working with a VSO (Veterans Service Officer). They’re free and know the system inside out.
Good idea. Do they help with filing, or is it more general advice?
Wynn said:
Honestly, I’d recommend working with a VSO (Veterans Service Officer). They’re free and know the system inside out.
They help with everything—filing, appeals, and even tracking claims. Super helpful.
Don’t forget to check the VA’s list of presumptive conditions. If your husband has any of those, it might make the process easier.
Addison said:
Don’t forget to check the VA’s list of presumptive conditions. If your husband has any of those, it might make the process easier.
Presumptive conditions? What’s that mean?
Addison said:
Don’t forget to check the VA’s list of presumptive conditions. If your husband has any of those, it might make the process easier.
It’s a list of illnesses the VA assumes are related to service in certain areas or exposures, so you don’t need extra proof.