Brig. General Carol Ann Fausone (ret)
In the last year, I have spoken to VA representatives over 600 times for clients of the firm. I am asked to call on files where the VA process seems stalled for our clients. The reason for the stalled claim process varies in each case. I have to call ROs all over the country. By and large, the VA employees that I talk to are hard working and dedicated but overwhelmed. I recently spoke to a RO coordinator that told me they are working on late 2009 and 2010 claims. Even remands from the Board are taking 3 years. I know our clients are frustrated and some people will tell you they can move the claim faster, but it is not true. If you want the truth, it is what I hear from talking to VA every day. Do not get so frustrated you do something silly like dismissing your claim that has been pending for 2.5 years and starting over because you think it will go faster. It won’t and all you did was give up the back pay award to which you are entitled. We will keep marching forward together.
If you are waiting on your claim to be decided, even if it’s on remand, the old rule of 1 year has stretched to 3 years. That is just the truth of the matter at many ROs.
Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800
