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Why VA Claims Get Denied - And How You Can Turn It Around
If your VA claim was denied, you’re not alone. Many veterans face denials not because their conditions aren’t real, but because the VA didn’t get the full evidence they needed. Here’s why denials happen and what you can do right now to fix it.
CMTJ, LLC
Nov 262 min read


The VA Disability “Paper Trail Advantage”: Why Your Documentation Style Can Make or Break Your Claim
Most Veterans believe VA disability claims are won by having the right diagnosis or the right rating. But there’s a hidden factor almost no one talks about: the quality and structure of your documentation. The VA calls it “evidence clarity.” We call it the Paper Trail Advantage — a simple documentation strategy that can dramatically improve the consistency, speed, and success rate of your VA claim or appeal.
CMTJ, LLC
Nov 203 min read


How to Use the 2026 COLA to Boost Your VA Disability Compensation
The annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2026 is on the horizon, and it could mean increased monthly compensation for hundreds of thousands of Veterans receiving VA disability payments. Learn how the COLA works, when it takes effect, and three smart strategies to maximize the impact on your benefits.
CMTJ, LLC
Nov 122 min read


What the 2025 VA Appeals Backlog Means for Your Claim — and How to Avoid Delays
Even though the Department of Veterans Affairs has reduced its disability-claim backlog to under 200,000 as of September 2025, Veterans navigating the appeals process still face major delays—especially under the Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act (AMA). Learn how the backlog is evolving, what it means for your case, and proven strategies to keep your claim moving forward.
CMTJ, LLC
Nov 63 min read


Bufkin v. Collins: How You Can Benefit from a Major Supreme Court Ruling
In Bufkin v. Collins (2025), the Supreme Court ruled that the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims must apply clear error review when determining if the benefit-of-the-doubt rule was correctly applied. This landmark decision increases accountability at the BVA and could lead to more favorable outcomes for Veterans appealing denied disability claims.
CMTJ, LLC
Aug 273 min read


Union Shake-Up at the VA: What the Fallout Means for Your Care
In early August 2025, the VA terminated collective bargaining agreements for most unionized employees—impacting around 360,000 healthcare and federal staff. Discover how this shift may affect access to care, appointment wait times, and staff morale at your local VA facility.
CMTJ, LLC
Aug 203 min read


Double Pay in August: How to Maximize Your Two VA Disability Payments
Because of the holiday schedule, most Veterans will see two VA disability payments in August 2025—on Aug 1 and Aug 29. It’s not extra money, but it is a chance to pre-fund September, kill high-interest debt, and pad your emergency fund. Here’s how to make this “bonus month” count.
CMTJ, LLC
Aug 133 min read


Big Win for Veterans: What the 2026 VA Funding Bill Really Means for You
The Senate has cleared a major new VA funding bill. More clinicians, expanded toxic exposure funding, and guaranteed rural healthcare support are part of the package. Learn how this legislation could directly benefit your VA claim, including faster medical care and better access.
CMTJ, LLC
Aug 62 min read


“Denied? Good.” Why a Denied VA Claim Might Be the Best Thing That Ever Happened to You
Got denied for VA benefits? Don’t walk away. Here’s why that denial might be the best thing that ever happened to your claim—and how it could lead to backpay, higher ratings, and a stronger case.
CMTJ, LLC
Jul 302 min read


Hidden Disabilities Keeping Veterans from Higher Compensation
Are you living with pain, stress, or invisible symptoms the VA hasn’t fully recognized? You may be eligible for much higher compensation. Learn about commonly overlooked conditions and how to get what you’ve earned.
CMTJ, LLC
Jul 232 min read


Most Veterans Are Missing Out on Thousands; Are You One of Them?
Most Veterans are leaving money on the table without even realizing it. Whether you’re underrated, denied, or haven’t filed yet—this guide will show you how to uncover what you’re truly owed and take action.
CMTJ, LLC
Jul 162 min read


Secondary Service-Connected Disabilities: What They Are and How to File for Them
Did your service-connected condition lead to new health problems? You may qualify for additional VA benefits through a secondary claim. This guide explains what secondary conditions are, how to file, and how they can increase your rating and back pay.
CMTJ, LLC
Jul 93 min read


2025 VA Disability Pay Rates: What Veterans Need to Know
The 2025 VA disability pay rates have been in effect since January, but many Veterans still aren’t receiving the full compensation they’re entitled to. This post breaks down the current rates, how to tell if you’re under-rated, and what steps to take if you’ve experienced changes in your condition.
CMTJ, LLC
Jul 22 min read


VA Disability Back Pay: What It Is and How to Get It
VA disability back pay ensures Veterans are fairly compensated for the time it takes the VA to process a claim. This article breaks down what back pay is, how to calculate it, what affects your effective date, and how to avoid common delays — plus tips to maximize your payout.
CMTJ, LLC
Jun 252 min read


How to Win a Higher VA Disability Rating
Many Veterans are underrated and missing out on the compensation they deserve. This guide explains how to win a higher VA disability rating by submitting strong evidence, filing correctly, and avoiding mistakes that weaken your claim.
CMTJ, LLC
Jun 182 min read


How to Prepare for Your C&P Exam (And What to Avoid)
Your Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam can make or break your VA claim. In this post, we’ll show you how to get ready, what to say (and not say), and what Veterans often miss that can lead to a lower rating or denial.
CMTJ, LLC
Jun 113 min read


Denied VA Benefits? Here’s What to Do Next
If your VA claim was denied, you’re not alone—and it’s not the end of the road. In this post, we break down why claims get denied, your options for appeal, and how to improve your chances of success with expert support.
CMTJ, LLC
Jun 42 min read


What Evidence Do I Need to Support My VA Claim?
Wondering what proof you need for your VA claim? From service treatment records to buddy letters and medical opinions, this guide breaks down the essential evidence Veterans need to win their case and maximize compensation.
CMTJ, LLC
May 283 min read


What Veterans Don't Know About Their VA Benefits
If you’re a U.S. Veteran, there’s a good chance you’re not claiming all the benefits you’ve earned. From overlooked federal programs like VA home loans and education support to powerful state-level perks like property tax breaks and free college tuition for your kids, the resources available may surprise you. In this post, we bust common VA myths, highlight hidden benefits, and show you how to take action today.
CMTJ, LLC
May 213 min read


Top 5 Questions Veterans Have About Their VA Disability Benefits
Silhouetted people walk across a field at sunset with an American flag overlay. The scene is serene, with a patriotic and hopeful mood.
CMTJ, LLC
May 143 min read
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