VA-accredited attorney and Army veteran Ed Farmer discusses the top 4 reasons veterans are getting denied — and what you can do about it.

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

Should you attend that extra VA C&P exam, or is it smarter to skip it? VA-accredited attorney and combat veteran Ed Farmer discusses this strategic dilemma that many veterans face during the claims process. 

In this episode, Ed explains why the VA sometimes requests additional exams after you’ve already submitted a strong independent medical opinion or nexus letter—and the risks and rewards of refusing to go.

You’ll learn about potential consequences of missing a VA exam, how the “benefit of the doubt” rule can work in your favor, and why some adjudicators may not interpret the rules in your best interest. Ed breaks down when skipping the exam might give your claim more weight, but also why it can lead to longer wait times and more appeals. With practical advice and caution around high-stakes decisions, this episode empowers you to make an informed choice about your VA claim.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8CPJc8BEM-k 

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

VA-accredited attorney and Army veteran Ed Farmer discusses the top 4 reasons veterans are getting denied — and what you can do about it.

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

In this episode, Ed highlights why independent medical opinions are often ignored, why informal conferences with higher-level reviewers have become unproductive, and how incorrect exam requests can sabotage your claim.

You’ll also learn why so many veterans are awarded the wrong effective dates and the challenges these errors create. Ed shares the strategies his law firm uses to fight these issues, including when it makes sense to appeal all the way to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. Throughout the episode, you'll get practical advice on gathering the right evidence, appealing unfair decisions, and staying persistent.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t6HRyrCCipk 

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

In this episode of VA Made Easy, VA-accredited attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer answers 10 real questions from veterans struggling with VA disability claims and appeals.

Ed breaks down how to prove chronic joint pain, link sleep apnea to PTSD—especially when weight gain plays a role—and strategies to secure the back pay you deserve. He explains what to expect if your prostate cancer rating drops after treatment and how to use buddy statements effectively when medical documentation is lacking.

You’ll also learn how to file for TDIU, appeal for a higher rating, and protect your claim’s effective date if you miss a C&P exam. Ed even covers what happens if a veteran passes away during their appeal and how to keep the process moving.

Whether you’ve been denied, delayed, or just don’t know what to do next, this episode offers clear, actionable advice to help you take control of your VA claim and get the benefits you’ve earned.

Subscribe for more straightforward guidance on VA disability claims from someone who’s been in your boots.

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

#VeteransAppeals #NoticeOfAppeal #CourtOfAppeals #VeteransClaims #VABoardDecision #LegalAid #MilitaryVeterans #AppealsProcess #LegalRights #VeteransBenefits #VAcourt #VeteranAdvocacy #VAclaims #VArepresentation #VAregulations #VAcase #MilitaryLaw #VACourt 

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

Are you confused about the VA’s rules for unemployability, also known as TDIU? VA-accredited attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer tackles the five most common questions he receives about TDIU in this episode of VA Made Easy.

Ed explains why the VA cannot use your age as a factor in unemployability claims, and clarifies when and how the VA is supposed to “infer” a TDIU claim—even if you never filed the official paperwork. He addresses misconceptions about employment history, including why your educational and occupational background matters if the VA says you could just “work an office job.” You'll also learn how the VA defines “substantial gainful employment” and what counts as crossing the income threshold for TDIU eligibility. Finally, Ed discusses the intersection of TDIU and Social Security benefits, shedding light on when you can receive both.

If you’ve been denied unemployability or aren’t sure how the rules apply to your case, this episode provides clear answers and practical tips to help you move forward. 

VA form 8940 - https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-21-8940-are.pdf 

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OeJugr4K8xs  

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com 

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

Veterans with IBS: Are you stuck at a 0% VA rating? Learn how the new 2024 VA disability rules could help you get a higher percentage.

VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer breaks down the updated rating criteria for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), effective May 19, 2024—explaining what qualifies for 10%, 20%, or 30%.

📌 In this video:

- Understand the new diagnostic rules

🎯 If you feel underrated, this video helps you advocate for the benefits you deserve.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8q3pmIJVbSQ 

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com 

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

Do you think you don’t qualify for VA Unemployability (TDIU) because you lack a single high-percentage disability rating? VA-accredited attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer breaks down the “one disability rule” and explains five key situations where multiple disabilities can be combined and counted as one for TDIU eligibility.

This episode clarifies common misconceptions about the rating requirements for TDIU and highlights the scenarios where disabilities affecting the same extremity, both upper or both lower extremities, the same body system, or arising from a single accident or combat event can boost your eligibility. Ed walks through clear, real-life examples using the VA’s unique combined rating table, helping you recognize when your ratings add up in ways you might not expect.

You’ll also learn why meeting the initial rating standards isn’t the end of the process—Ed covers the second step: showing that your service-connected disabilities actually prevent you from maintaining substantial gainful employment. 

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3wlXA5hKJ2k 

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com 

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

If you’ve filed for VA unemployability (TDIU), you might be surprised when the VA schedules you for a new round of exams for every service-connected condition. VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer is here to explain why this happens and how you can best protect yourself during the process.

In this episode, Ed breaks down why applying for TDIU often triggers exams for each of your service-connected disabilities and what the VA is really looking for during these evaluations. He discusses the risks of potential rating reductions, how to decide which conditions to list on your claim, and strategies to keep your ratings secure. You’ll also learn the importance of understanding your current rating criteria, endorsing the correct symptoms, and preparing effective lay and medical evidence.

Ed offers practical tips for educating examiners about your unique situation, ensuring your exam responses accurately capture the impact your disabilities have on your ability to work. If you need extra help preparing your claim—or if you’ve already been denied—reach out to Ed and his team for VA-accredited help. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to maximize their chances of a successful TDIU application.

TDIU Videos:

Veterans Guide to TDIU: Your Most Common Questions Answered - https://youtu.be/go1SuDE_itg 

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com 

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

Hit a wall with your VA claim—even after submitting an independent medical opinion or nexus letter? VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer breaks down why the VA sometimes ignores strong medical evidence and what you can do about it. In this episode, Ed walks you through the process of fighting back after a denial, including how to use a Higher Level Review, when to skip the informal conference, and how to craft persuasive written arguments to strengthen your appeal.

You’ll learn exactly how the VA’s “benefit of the doubt” rule works, why the balance of evidence matters, and common pitfalls in both VA and private medical opinions. Ed also shares tips on pushing back if the VA tries to send you for endless exams or claims there’s a “duty to assist” error. Should your case go to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, you’ll discover why that can sometimes be the best route to success.

If you’re tired of feeling stuck in the claims process, this episode gives you practical strategies—and the power—to move your case forward.

Watch this episode on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/RHiFz5oAzyQ 

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com  

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

As a VA-accredited attorney, I'm here to assist you with your legal needs. Schedule a consultation today: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice 

Already rated for a respiratory condition like asthma and thinking a new claim for sleep apnea might boost your VA rating? Not so fast. VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer unpacks a little-known VA regulation that could affect your benefits.

In this episode, Ed explains why veterans can’t always receive separate ratings for multiple respiratory conditions like asthma and sleep apnea. You'll learn about the key regulation—38 CFR 4.96(a)—which requires the VA to assign just one rating for the predominant respiratory disability, rather than adding the ratings together. Ed walks you through how the VA determines which condition is “predominant” by looking at the diagnostic codes and specific criteria for asthma and sleep apnea.

He highlights the impact this rule has on your overall compensation and discusses what options you have if you think your situation is unique. If you’re wondering how to maximize your rating or appeal a VA decision under this rule, Ed points out the importance of consulting a qualified representative. This episode is a must-listen for any veteran navigating multiple respiratory service-connected conditions and wanting to understand their rights under current VA law.

Watch this episode on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/4MTL0WmM-k0 

Special provisions regarding evaluation of respiratory conditions: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFR14fb86bcc86c2cb/section-4.96   

Schedule of ratings—respiratory system: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFR14fb86bcc86c2cb/section-4.97  

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com 

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims. 

Did you know the VA has a list of around 40 chronic diseases that may be presumed connected to your service—even if you never reported symptoms on active duty? 

In this episode, VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer walks you through the “chronic disease presumption,” a powerful tool for veterans seeking VA disability benefits. Ed explains which conditions qualify under 38 CFR 3.309(a), how the presumption works if your diagnosis or symptoms appear within one year (or longer for some conditions) after leaving service, and what medical and lay evidence you’ll need to support your claim.

You’ll discover why hearing loss, tinnitus, psychosis, and conditions like bipolar disorder fall under this presumption and learn practical steps for gathering evidence such as buddy statements and private medical opinions. Ed also shares a real-life example of winning a 100% rating for a veteran whose symptoms began after service.

list of chronic conditions: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-3/subpart-A/subject-group-ECFR39056aee4e9ff13/section-3.309 

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GO-MqhAH648 

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com 

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims.