Category: Appeals

BVA Case Decision: “Probative Value” of Private Medical Evidence Used to Support a Veteran’s VA Disability Claim

Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Medical evidence is medical evidence. All competent and credible evidence of record must be reviewed by the VA Rater (and considered) prior to making a VA claim decision. However, not all evidence is created equal. Evidence may have more (or less) PROBATIVE VALUE. What Evidence Has Probative Value? III.iv.5.A.2.d.  Definition:        […]

How Do I Read My VA Award Letter?

It’s finally here! After long weeks of putting together your VA claim, you’ve finally received your VA award letter. You open it and… You’re left asking, “How do I read my VA award letter?!” After a long, and at times confusing and frustrating process, you’ve waited for this moment, only to find that the letter […]

Can the VA Reduce a PTSD Rating?

After all the work that goes into filing a successful VA claim, followed by all the waiting for the VA to issue a decision, there are few things that feel better than finally having your claim approved! But can the VA reduce a PTSD rating? The short answer is, yes. The VA absolutely can choose […]

Filing a VA Claim for Migraines Secondary to Anxiety

Did you know you can claim migraines secondary to anxiety for VA benefits? Here at VA Claims Insider, we refer to secondary claims as “the Overlooked Claim” because so many veterans overlook this opportunity to file for more benefits.  According to the American Migraine Foundation, about 20% of people with episodic migraines have anxiety, and […]