Veterans Legal Lowdown: VA Benefits Explained

In this episode, CCK Law discusses how VA disability claims are frequently denied not on the merits, but on procedural technicalities: the wrong form, a missed deadline, or a single unchecked box. Under 38 CFR 3.155, veterans must use VA-prescribed forms, and filing timing directly determines the effective date, which dictates how far back retroactive benefits are paid. Tune in to learn more!

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In this episode, CCK Law's Brad Hennings explains how veterans may qualify for VA disability compensation for COVID-19 residuals, including how presumptive service connection works, what evidence is needed to link ongoing conditions to service, and how VA rates long COVID and related chronic symptoms. Tune in to learn what VA looks for when evaluating COVID-related claims and how veterans can strengthen their case for benefits!

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In this episode, CCK Law's Brad Hennings explains how veterans may qualify for VA disability benefits even without a formal diagnosis, including how the landmark Saunders v. Wilkie decision changed the rules for chronic pain, fatigue, and other undiagnosed conditions. Listen to learn more about what VA looks for when evaluating functional impairment, what evidence is needed to support a claim, and the key limits veterans should know when pursuing VA compensation without a diagnosis.

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VA aid and attendance benefits can be confusing because there are two separate programs: “Pension-Based Aid and Attendance” and “Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) Aid and Attendance.” In this episode, former Veterans Law Judge Brad Hennings explains the key differences between these VA benefits, including eligibility requirements, income and net worth limits, service-connected disability criteria, and 2026 compensation rates. Listen to learn more!

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Understanding why some VA disability claims are harder to win can make all the difference in your case. In this episode, we break down several of the most challenging types of claims veterans face and explain what makes them so complex. We also outline the kinds of evidence and strategies that can help strengthen your claim and improve your chances of success. Tune in to learn more!

Most VA disability claims come down to one thing: evidence. In this episode, CCK Law walks through how veterans can gather and submit the right evidence to support a strong VA claim. From service records and private medical records to nexus opinions and lay statements, understanding what to include, where to find it, and how VA evaluates it can make a real difference in the outcome of your case. Tune in to learn more!

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Understanding the difference between SMC-L and SMC-R1 can have a direct impact on your VA disability compensation, but many veterans are confused as to how these aid and attendance benefits work. In this episode, CCK Law Partner Brad Hennings breaks down how each level fits into the Special Monthly Compensation system, what VA looks for when evaluating eligibility, and why these two benefits are not interchangeable. Tune in to learn more!

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Little-known procedural rules and technicalities can lead to many veterans being denied VA benefits. However, this does not mean their cases lack merit. Navigating the VA claims process is complicated, but in this episode, CCK Law Partner Michael Lostritto and supervising attorney Alyse Phillips break down 5 important topics all veterans need to understand. Tune in to learn more!

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There are many veterans who experience conditions that worsen over time. These conditions may also fluctuate, but these “bad days” are not always reflected during a C&P exam or within a VA disability rating. Understanding how VA evaluates flare-ups can make a real difference. In this episode, CCK Law breaks down what veterans should know about flare-ups, including how they factor into VA disability claims and why this issue frequently occurs during appeals. Tune in to learn more!

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Many veterans believe that retirement disqualifies them from Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), but that is not what VA law says. In this episode, CCK Law Partner Brad Hennings explains how VA evaluates TDIU eligibility under 38 CFR § 4.16, why retirement status does not automatically disqualify a veteran, and how factors like functional limitations, marginal employment, and service-connected disabilities impact your claim. Tune in to learn more!

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