After serving eight years in the military, receiving a 50% VA disability rating provided crucial financial support during my transition to civilian life. However, my service-connected conditions continued to worsen over time. What followed was a 13-year journey to reach 100% disability—a path made possible with professional assistance from REE Medical.
My VA Disability Journey: From 50% to 100% P&T
The Compensation and Pension Exam Trap
My first encounter with the VA's disability review process caught me completely unprepared. I received an appointment for my TMJ dental disability evaluation but did not understand what a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam entailed.
During the appointment, my jaw dislocated (a common TMJ symptom), and the doctor quickly took measurements before ending the exam. Months later, I was shocked to discover my disability rating had been reduced from 50% to 30%—resulting in a $300 monthly income reduction.
What the VA doesn't tell veterans: Many disabilities are automatically re-evaluated after three years based on the assumption they improve after military service.
Despite continuing to struggle with eating, yawning, and sleeping due to TMJ pain, I had to begin the arduous process of proving my disability still existed. After securing medical evidence from my dentist over numerous appointments, the VA finally reversed their decision, restoring my 50% rating with back pay.
See my feature in AARP 7 VA Benefits Often Overlooked by Veterans
The Frustrating Process of Requesting a Rating Increase
For years, I diligently:
Attended countless medical appointments
Underwent procedures to reduce nerve pain
Participated in physical therapy
Took prescribed pain medications
Despite these efforts and properly documenting everything, including having my physician complete Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs), the VA repeatedly denied my requests for an increased rating. Each denial meant more missed work, more lost income, and growing frustration.
After a decade of unsuccessful attempts, fellow veterans suggested I seek professional assistance. My online research led me to REE Medical, which had positive BBB ratings and success stories in veteran forums.
The REE Medical Process
Free Consultation: During my initial call, a representative evaluated my situation and reviewed my disabilities, ratings, and medical documentation frequency. They assessed my potential for an increase before accepting me as a client.
Strategic Claim Filing: REE Medical advised me to immediately submit a claim to establish an effective date for potential back pay. They helped me focus only on disabilities eligible for increases.
Documentation Support: They provided structured guidance for completing DBQs thoroughly and honestly, ensuring all my medical evidence aligned properly with VA requirements.
Medical Evidence Preparation: REE Medical reviewed all my documentation and helped prepare my case for submission after additional medical visits.
The Life-Changing Result: 100% Temporary Rating
After months of waiting, I received the notification that my rating had increased to 100%. Most of my claims were approved, exceeding what was necessary for the maximum rating. However, the VA initially classified this as a temporary rating pending reevaluation in two years.
Following advice from my Wounded Warriors Project case manager, I continued regular medical visits to document my ongoing conditions.
See my feature in Military Families Magazine Veterans Build Debt-Free Life After the Military
From Temporary to Permanent and Total (P&T) Disability
When my reevaluation period passed, I nervously awaited the VA's decision. To my relief, they reviewed my consistent medical documentation and awarded me 100% Permanent and Total disability status.
The Benefits of 100% P&T VA Disability Rating in Florida
Receiving a permanent and total disability rating has provided numerous benefits:
Education Benefits: Free bachelor's degree for my children at Florida state universities
Vehicle Benefits: Disabled veteran tag for my primary vehicle
Property Tax Exemption: Complete elimination of property taxes (previously only a $5,000 exemption)
Recreational Benefits: Free access to state parks and a free fishing license
Parking Benefits: Free parking at airports and metered downtown locations
There are many other benefits in Florida, but these are the ones I use most often. A comprehensive list of benefits for veterans available in your state can be found here.
Could I Have Achieved 100% P&T Without REE Medical?
While technically possible, my personal experience speaks volumes. After 12+ years of trying independently, REE Medical helped me complete the process in just six months.
This efficiency meant:
No more missed compensation
Reduced time away from work
Peace of mind after years of struggle
While I worked with both REE Medical and the Wounded Warrior Project, every veteran's journey is unique. Research your options to determine if you can navigate the process alone or would benefit from professional assistance.
VA Disability Resources for Veterans
Want to learn how to save and budget your VA disability benefits? Contact me for a one-on-one consultation about protecting your wealth and income.
Official VA Resources
Veteran Service Organizations
Have questions about working with REE Medical for your VA disability claim? Drop a comment below or contact me directly for personalized guidance.
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