Disability Happens » How & Where to report VA abuse and fraud

How & Where to report VA abuse and fraud

March 24th, 2008 by Richard Brassaw

War veterans who suffer physical and emotion illness frequently suffer financial hardships due to their inability to find suitable employment. Veterans Affairs (VA) offers substantial medical services and benefits to those who have suffered a disability.

Unfortunately, the VA disability benefits can serve as an incentive to commit fraud and abuse. Psychiatric disabilities, like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), is one area that has seen a substantial increase of claims. One study of veterans seeking a PTSD disability claim found that 69% of those veterans scored higher for symptoms of malingering than the control group of non compensation seeking veterans on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2).

Just because someone does not appear to have a disability does it mean their claim is fraudulent. Before acting on your instincts to report fraud it is best to find out why they are receiving those benefits. If you have ever thought that someone in a handicap parking space looks healthy, but later come to learn that they are waiting for a kidney transplant, you learn not to judge by appearances. Another example is someone who often experiences seizures.

Because PTSD is not a affliction that can be measured it is difficult to determine who is a malingerer and who legitimately suffers from the disorder. There are legitimate psychological and mental impairments for collecting disability.

Before reporting a fraudulent claimant you need to understand more about their exact disability and to become familiar with the conditions/symptoms of their disability. Once you are familiar with their diagnosis and the symptoms of their disorder, then you need to consider things that are incongruent between their behavior and their diagnosis. That in-congruency is something the VA wants to know about.

You can contact the Department of Veterans Affairs’ hotline at (800) 488-8244, between 8:30 am - 4:00 pm EST, Monday through Friday–excluding Federal holidays. Write the VA hotline at: VA Inspector General Hotline (53E), P.O. Box 50410, Washington, DC 20091-0410. Or contact them by email: vaoighotline@va.gov

The types of complaints the VA hotline accepts:

Employee misconduct.
Patient abuse.
Serious safety violations.
Theft from VA beneficiaries.
Theft or misuse of Government property.
False claims by beneficiaries, claimants, patients, employees, or contractors.
Systemic problems with VA programs or operations.
Gross waste of funds or official time.

The VA hotline will want to know:

The particular VA facility or office involved.
The identity of the wrongdoer(s) and victim(s).
The alleged legal or policy violation(s) or other misconduct.
The effect of the wrongdoing, such as dollars lost, delay produced, etc.
The date(s) when the event(s) occurred.
The identity of any witness(es) to the event(s).
Copies of relevant documents that support the allegation.
Whether anyone else has already reviewed the allegation.
An address and telephone number of a named complainant and whether the complainant wishes confidentiality.

The VA does NOT want to know about:

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Category : Disability Insurance, Fraud, Insurance, Insurance Claims, Veterans

63 Responses to “How & Where to report VA abuse and fraud”

David Starr, on April 3rd, 2008 at 4:54 pm Said:

Richard,
You are doing a wonderful job. The information is great. Dave
JOHN, on June 28th, 2008 at 2:21 am Said:

I THINK THEY SHOULD INVESTIGATE ALL PTSD CASES. I AM RETIRED FROM THE AIR FORCE AND MY BROTHER WHO ONLY SERVED NINE YEARS GETS MORE TAX FREE PTSD FRAUD MONEY FROM THE VA THEN I RECEIVE IN MILITARY RETIREMENT PAY. MY BROTHER NEVER WENT TO WAR. HE WAS STATIONED IN ENGLAND IN 1988 AND SAID HE TOOK LEAVE TO ATTEND AN AIR SHOW IN GERMANY. TWO ITALIAN PLANES HIT EACH OTHER IN MID AIR AND CRASHED INTO THE PEOPLE WATCHING THE SHOW ON THE GROUND. MANY WERE INJURED AND KILLED . MY BROTHER SAID HE SAW ALL OF THIS AND NOW HAS PTSD. HE DID HIS HOMEWORK AND LEARNED ALL ABOUT PTSD SYMPTOMS. HE DID TAKE LEAVE TO GO TO GERMANY BUT NOT AT THE TIME OF THE AIR SHOW!! I REPORTED THE FRAUD TO THE VA INSPECTOR GENERAL BUT THEY TOLD ME IF THEY DO NOT SPEND ALL THE MONEY THEY RECEIVE THEY WILL NOT GET AS MUCH THE NEXT YEAR . WHAT A JOKE !!! I KNOW FOR A FACT THERE IS PTSD FRAUD IN THE VA AND YOU CAN NOT TELL ME ANY DIFFERENT.. AS A RETIRED MEMBER OF THE AIR FORCE I HAVE SEEN IT FIRST HAND!!!!!!!!

PS. I AM STILL WAITING FOR A RESPONSE FROM CHRISTINA A. LAVINE ( HOTLINE DIRECTOR) ABOUT THE RESULTS OF THE INVESTIGATION . THE LETTER THEY SENT ME WAS DATED 13 SEPT 2005.
Pissed OFF!, on July 2nd, 2008 at 5:23 am Said:

Where to start??? I married a bigamist, who was previously a service member in the US ARMY. He was deployed to Iraq, and during the course of deployment phoned me daily 20-30 times per day. (this is not a joke). He re-enlisted while there, and then he and his parents attempted to bribe me with his re-enlistment money to lie to the American Red Cross to bring him home. This legal system is such a joke. When I discovered he was a bigamist (when I went to divorce him), i immediately notified local law enforcement officials and his company commander (As it’s at the company commander’s discretion to Court Martial him under UCMJ). You should know that all parties, Himself, Myself, and the 1st Wife are all residents of the state of Texas, however he and I were married in Georgia. Texas does not find that bigamy is against the peace of the state so long as you’re a member of the Armed Forces. The company commander informed me he couldn’t court martial him because the statute of limitations had passed (the statute is 7 years. He had not been in the military 7 years, and had not been married to me 7 years). He’s since been discharged under article 17 (read crying wolf) for PTSD and Chronic Concussive disorder. He is now fighting me for full custody of our 2 year old child, receiving unemployment, NOT PAYING CHILD SUPPORT, and working under the table while he attempts to receive disability from the VA. Apparently his mental condition has absolutely no bearing on his ability to parent a child, just on his ability “work”.
A.K., on August 8th, 2008 at 8:19 am Said:

How do I report two veterans at my jobsite who are receiving 100% disability and are performing duties that require heavy lifting, working under adverse conditions, etc. One is receiving 100% disability for back injuries and ironically rides a motorcycle… This doesn’t make sense! Both have bragged that they have a cash cow. Fortunately, I do not need benefits -but- I do know many veterans that have serious medical conditions and are receiving nothing… My Dad was hospitalized at the VA hospital several years ago… It saddened my heart to see my fellow veterans with arms and legs missing. But it hacks me off when I see able-bodied veterans milking the system.
NICK, on August 10th, 2008 at 6:21 am Said:

I work at the VA and I am an advocate for veterans who served in COMBAT to recevie disability and benefits for injuries and diseases due to as a result of COMBAT, I have a real issue with veterans getting disability benefits for disease and injuries that have nothing to do with their military service–it is a joke. Veterans get disability pay for so called disabilities such as sleep apnea, hysterectomies, sinusitis, asthma, adult onset diabetes (and every claim I see for Diabetes the veteran is OBESE.)

I see so many claims that are granted to people who go in the military service 6 months or a year-people who are not in combat, and the people are let out of the military -”under honorable conditions” NOT honorable. The people are let out of the military because of mental problems, adjustment disorders, etc. They cannot adjust to military life and guess what these people get out and claim all their mental problems are due to their military service and 99% of the time they are granted100% disability and receive over $2500.00 a month tax free

The system needs to be changed but Politicians do not understand who a veteran is and what they get disability pay for–a veteran is anyone who serves in the military over 90 days and does not get a dishonorable discharge. It is a big joke
Mary, on August 15th, 2008 at 6:21 am Said:

I hear ya. I know someone who is a NON active duty veteran (never in a war) who collects 100% Individual Unemployability over $2400 mo. AND Social Security Disability because of a couple surgeries. She was rated during the recovery from a surgery but that was temporary. Now she is going about her life doing more physically that before. She played the violins during the rating process now that she is getting her money… suddenly she is cured. Whats wrong with the system? Why isn’t a re evaluation being done?
There are so many who are fighting in the current war who NEED the financial assistance with real disabilities. This is a JOKE! Is there someone I can notify about this? I have proof of this person no longer being disabled.
M, on August 18th, 2008 at 10:00 am Said:

I know someone who was NOT an active duty veteran who is collecting 100% Permanent & Total Individual Unemployability and Social Security Disability right now. She had a surgery a couple years ago and was rated during her recovery but now she is doing just fine. The disability was clearly temporary NOT permanent. I wonder why the VA isn’t doing a reevaluation of this person to adjust the rating percentage at this point. It’s a shame to see this person collecting $2400+ a month and SS disability when there are others out there who are coming back from fighting the war with real severe disabilities and not getting enough to cover their expenses. What a shame! It is a joke.
NICK, on August 30th, 2008 at 2:27 pm Said:

I left a post earlier, I work at the VA and I would like politicians and tax payers to be aware of the veterans who are getting disability benefits-here a case I had this week. A veteran who served in 1969 a little over a year, spent 5 months in VA was let out of service under honorable conditions NOT honorable. In 1972 the veteran kidnapped and murdered an 18 year old girl. He served 18 years in prison. Guess what he was awarded 100% disability from the VA, the veteran suffers from a dysthymic disorder and he got a doctor to say he suffered fron PTSD due to his Vietnam service. he is getting a reto check for almost fifty thousand dollar and will continue to receive approx $3000 a month tax free, a man who murdered a young girl!! I wonder what the murdered girls parents would think of their tax dollars going to this veteran! This so called disabled veteran

Here is another case I had this week, a man served in the military no combat. While in the military he developed a bunion….he was service connected for the bunion on his foot..he has now parlayed a bunion on his foot, into having knee problems secondary to the bunion and falling due to his knee and injurying his back-he is now 80% disabled!! a bunion caused all these problems please… but he got a doctor to say it did-oh and guess what this veteran is an attorney….imgaine that

Now I do not think that the VA was created to pay veterans for the above, it was created to help veterans INJURED in combat. The VA disability system is broke and needs to be fixed but politicians will never do this because god forbid they try to take something away from veterans. And politician obviously don;t care about tax payers money going to pay ridiculous benefits.

Politicians give more and more and more to veterans to get votes.
Jackie, on September 22nd, 2008 at 4:12 pm Said:

I know a person who claims that he is a disabled vet. He was in the Airforce for approximately six years and is now working as a full-time police officer. He is on a S.W.A.T. team, he rides a motorcycle, and performs his duties with no obvious problems. This person learned the ins and outs of collecting disability from the V.A. He is very proud of himself and constantly brags that he collects almost 1, 500 a month for his “disabilities”. He claims that he suffers from depression and gout, of all things. His goal is to increase his disability income to 100%. I think it’s a crime that soldiers coming home from Iraq, missing a limb or two, have trouble collecting disability when the V.A. will gladly send a check to a turd who happens to be smart enough to screw the system.
Susan, on October 23rd, 2008 at 6:49 pm Said:

I am so glad to find this website. I know someone who served 4 years in the Army active duty - never one day outside of the US and never in combat. During her first year of active duty she had a motorcycle accident (off post). She has now had several surguries - all paid for by the V.A. The first was to repair the shoulder, the second was to take care of the shoulder again after she tried to kill herself. She has since tried to committ suicide about 12 times - once with a knife to the stomach and once with a rifle (accidently of course). She is now a crack addict and guess who paid for her to go through treatment - yep! She has been deemed disabled, has a “mood” disorder and has been through treatment for an eating disorder and countless other things and receives benefits from - you guessed it - V.A. to the tune of 660.00 a month. Yet she is still able to operate her motorcycle and smoke crack. She has had her kids taken away but now gets to visit with them thanks to this check. It makes me sick that this woman who NEVER saw any combat and caused all or most of her own problems is using VA money to pay for the courts to allow her to visit with her kids a a county run agency while veterens who actually saw combat can’t get help. Who in the world can investigate this abuse of the sysytem? If you have any answers I would love to hear them.
Erich, on October 25th, 2008 at 6:19 pm Said:

Here is one for you. I found 6 months after my marriage with my wife that she in fact was only in the reserves for 13 months, not 13 years and is collecting $2500 per month tax free for being 100% disabled.

She got rear ended in her car while with her mother and niece and nephew while going shopping and because she had her uniform on, said she was still coming home from the base.

WHile i thought she was collecting retirement benefits, we ahve enjoed downhill skiing, running, biking, bowling, and she is able to do this with her soft muscle tissue claims of disability.

She also worked at a golf course as the beverage cart girl all while being 100% disabled.

To finish it off, she has been out of our house for over 2 years and continues to collect money on behalf of myself and my other 2 child I have custody of in the amount of over $400 per month and the VA does not seem to care.

I feel sad for all the true VETS that really need help.
Larry, on October 28th, 2008 at 10:06 am Said:

My friend receives 100% disability. He was never in combat but claims he hurt his back while enlisted. He suffers from chronic pain and depression but it is obvious to me that he could work and contribute. I believe it all comes down to hiring the right lawyers to represent you. This is nothing more than welfare and there are millions of people who deserve it more than him.
OU812, on November 7th, 2008 at 1:26 pm Said:

I have a relative drawing 100% disability due to malingering. It all started while he was a marine recruiter and wanted a transfer coz didn’t like the job anymore, couldn’t get it. So, he gets in a car wreck intentionally and gets more than he bargains for, a cracked spine. Well of course he gets transferred back to the east coast where he is close to “adequate” military medical facilities. This guy is a jewel, not once did he complete a tour of duty ANYWHERE! Bailed out of his first float by punching a steel bulkhead and breaking his hand, spent several months on light duty in the PI shacked up with a prostitute. Got out of Desert Shield by claiming his pregnant wife was suicidal coz he wasn’t home, she was most happy when he was gone! Came home though and didn’t have to go back for the war. Another float he got out of by crapping his pants intentionally and claiming uncontrollable bowel movements…got transferred back home. Amazingly once he left the ship his bowel movement issues miraculously healed itself. He draws disability for his back and PTSD…yet as a “disabled veteran” with a serious back injury he worked as a jack hammer operator for the road district, plays baseball every weekend, operates a part time dump truck service, and uses all that VA money to finance several affairs with other women in 3 different states. He has a wife and 3 kids that doesn’t see much if any of that VA money. This is why I don’t believe in the system, as a vet myself. This guy is a liar and a thief and the govt is financing him! PLUS and here’s how stupid the govt can really be, after his 2nd “back” surgery he attends airborne training in Georgia!!!!! Never saw combat not once but of course tells everyone he got shot in Iraq which is why he is disabled. The guy is now a drug user thanks to the VA, they have him on morphine and methodone which led him to pot, coke, and crack. He actually made is children urinate in bottles that he kept in the fridge for his drug tests at his civilian job! What a puke! Again, way to go VA.. You can report fraudsters all you want, the VA will do NOTHING even if you have verifiable, undeniable proof!
Bill, on November 18th, 2008 at 3:04 pm Said:

Have read all of these “complaints” and some have value. But first I would like to say that if you’ve never served then shut up! If you have then the laws were written for you. You are a minority in the population. Every veteran, whether combat or not, has given the government a blank check for the amount of “up to and including his/her life”. Whether hurt in an accident or sports, military service is 24/7/365. Every minute while in is “on duty” even when on leave and injuries are considered line of duty. If someone thinks that veterans have it better than them, the answer is easy…join up! But don’t deny veterans compensation for anything that the law provides for and then cheer for the labor unions and wall street bailouts, etc. Try to understan, if you will the the body has five systems that can have disabilities but even though in part may add up to 100% for compensation, may or may not prevent someone from working. The VA has 100% unemplyable as well as those with 100% who are authorized to work a normal job. Stop bitching about things that you don’t understand and take the time to learn about them. If you feel cheated then look in a mirror and see why.
That’s all from me. Have a great day (and thank a veteran for the fact that you are able to haveit)
Richard Brassaw, on November 18th, 2008 at 4:53 pm Said:

Fraud can be perpetrated by those filing for claims or by the VA denying valid claims. There have been reports of the VA actively denying claims to soldiers who should be given disability–mainly for PTSD claims.

It is a tragedy for everyone when a man or woman who puts their life on the line to defend America and is denied what was promised to them. As pointed out by Bill injury goes beyond the physical. The rate of suicide in units serving in combat attest to the fact of the psychological terror that our soldiers face on a daily basis.

From the comments left here, I’d say that by far what upsets people most is that filing a fraudulent disability claim is a dishonorable act against those who have served in our military. That is something I think we can all agree on.
Charles, on November 20th, 2008 at 12:27 pm Said:

I spend 80% of my days laid out and dizzy from pain. I consume three morphine and three oxycodone pills a day, and to be honest I have been to the emergency room because that wasn’t enough . All but two of my back discs are ruptured and I’m only 38 years old. I’ve lost my job my apartment , my bike , my truck soon as they find it, and worst of all my health.

Any body know where I can live for $400 a month? Any body want to hire an old vet that can work for maybe an hour a day sometimes not? By the way I come with my own pain killers just in case my body starts to shut down from the pain. Oops I almost forgot, I need a lawyer to declare bankruptcy so I can loose any dignity I had left in front of a judge, which I cannot afford either.

Out of all this what bothers me the most is when my MRI came back with two pages of pinched nerves and moderate to severe stenosis (narrowing of the spinal cord area) I expected something more than a Veterans Administration Neurosurgeon I had been waiting years to see, tell me it doesn’t look that bad and he doesn’t know why I’m in pain. Must be the word severe that confused him.

There must be some special school for how to insult a vet bad enough not to go back for the care they deserve. I take the morphine , oxycodone and cyclobenzaprine for spasms and pain. Anti inflamatories , vitamins, and laxatives for all the opiates that wage war on my digestive tract. Which by the way I was told by the pharmacist at the VA that these are not service related so I have to pay for them.

Let’s review: opiates clog me up so I take laxatives so my organs don’t explode. One plus one still equals two in my world. The pain got so severe with the migranes, roaming numbness and sharp stabs I finally quit my job. I don’t even have enough to file bankruptcy. I went from a 700 credit rating to I doubt if I can borrow enough for a pack of chewing gum.

I am currently at 40% and the VA ratings letter of denial said the rating was “generous” and “subject to re-evaluation” (nice threat) . I attribute my problems to Doha Kuwait. Gov hush on a fire that caused millions in damage. In addition to being close enough to the initial explosion to remember that it’s the ones that don’t echo you worry about…The ones that echo are too far away to hit.

After the fire I was on a detail cleaning up the depleted uranium rounds that were damaged and the blown up tanks. Don’t worry a guy with a counter said what not to touch and we threw away our special leather gloves. Leather stops radiation right? So after all these years my body is falling apart and my government gives me the cold shoulder? After I got out of the service I went to work for the time that I could because that is how I was raised. I’ve never taken a day of unemployment, even though I struggled just to keep fed. But how do I prove this after so many years. I know my doctor said I have the back of a ninety year old man and I’m only thirty eight. If a ninety year old man feels as bad as I, I feel sorry for him. I just wish I could afford to pay for an honest opinion.

How far must I fall? I spoken in so many a deaf ear my throat can bear no more. God I love this country and gave all that I had… too bad my country does not feel the same. I take 180 opiate pills a month… I cannot hold my head above water much longer. All I get from DAV is a letter asking for a donation. Did they not read this? Talked to Reno Hud, wait list 6 to 8 months, guess I better sell the rest of what I own and move into tent city.
Richard Brassaw, on November 20th, 2008 at 1:43 pm Said:

Charles,

It is impossible to read your comment without being moved. The system has failed you and you are not alone. From all of the comments I’ve read it disturbs people that scumbags work the system while those in need, like yourself, are denied what should be generously given to you.

The media needs to shine a spotlight on situations like yours and shame those barbaric policies that work for the system instead of for the vet.
Tucan, on January 7th, 2009 at 7:06 pm Said:

My ex-bro-in-law gets about $50k for his VietNam PTSD symptoms. I know, and his ex-wife knows that his claim is a fraud. He visited websites, talked with other scammers and read about how to fake the worst symptoms. And bragged about it. He had planned it over a period of years.

The worst thing is his personal dislike for all minorities and especially anyone on welfare. The irony is lost on him. He does have mental problems but that didn’t prevent him from earning $200k / year while preparing his case. He’s a first class jerk who who should be in jail. Including his gov’t analyst. what a shame that so many deserving disabled vets get turned down because they are honest and don’t know how to scam the system.
tim, on January 24th, 2009 at 2:46 pm Said:

Is anything being done to reevaluate 100% disabilities. My brother has been collecting for a few years. He kept going back to the VA until he finally got his 100%. The only problem with him is he doesn’t want to work for a living, but live off the system.
Eric, on January 25th, 2009 at 4:41 pm Said:

Bill, on November 18th, 2008 ,I feel for you and others that have legitimate claims.Your broad brushing is a little black and white though.

For all of you that are looking to expose people that you know are outwardly fraudulant, I will be providing a step by step process of what I am going through right now to expose a fraud case. You have to have all your facts, documents, photos, videos in order. Then, you have to know who to talk with and how to present the information. It does not require legal support.

These types of cases can and should be reported as there are so many people that truly need and deserve support. If all the “fakes” can be exposed, imagine how much money the government can save and put to good credible use.
More to come……Step 1: get all your documents, photos, videos together, put togther a list of contacts with phone numbers of people that can support your claims,
You will find that the hardest part of the whole process is getting the VA to listen. They are so busy hadning out money that they dont necessarily have the time to listen. (together we can change their priorities and make them listen) It will help everyone - most importantly, help the Vets that need and deserve the support!
Shelly, on January 25th, 2009 at 6:56 pm Said:

Eric, Great post. I have an ex who recently retired who plans to file disability to reduce the amt of his retirement that the courts awarded me in the divorce. I have documentation and photos to prove his is 100% able bodied, where do I send them? What phone number do I call? My goal is to nip this in the bud before he, like many others, gets an unjust reward from the VA that should go towards those who truly deserve it.
erik, on January 26th, 2009 at 9:14 am Said:

I hear nothing but jealousy from the above posters,and why becouse our brave heroes are getting paid for fighting for this country!you cowards should be ashamed at yourselves,I doubt you people have done anything meaningful in your lives.I know you have never been in combat ha I bet you people posting have never even left the u.s. in your lives,you people ought to be horsewhipped.
Eric, on January 27th, 2009 at 9:05 pm Said:

Shelly - more to come. For now:
I suggest contacting the Department of Veterans Affairs’ hotline at (800) 488-8244, between 8:30 am - 4:00 pm EST, Monday through Friday–excluding Federal holidays. Write the VA hotline at: VA Inspector General Hotline (53E), P.O. Box 50410, Washington, DC 20091-0410. Or contact them by email: vaoighotline@va.gov.

Before you submit anything, you need to have you “ducks in a row”

Erik: No jealousy here. SImply a civic desire to help clean up all the bad behavior of people that feel they are entitled to hard working tax payers, in particular during these economic times.
I have met with active duty personnel in the Middle East right after the Gulf War in Kuwait and Bahrain just as a start. South Korea, yeap, did that too, more and more..
I won’t speculate as to your situation but it sounds bitter to me.

Brave heros ought to be honored and respected and have earned this respect. Its the individuals that try to lay claim to being in this class and take the extra step of making questionable claims at best.
Your over genrealization that all Vets are heros and entitled to disability is quite distorted on all counts.
Keep out your horsewhip and line up the fraudulent people to start.
Which line do you stand in Erik?
Eric, on January 27th, 2009 at 9:13 pm Said:

And - too be balanced on both sides, (we want to hold the VA accountable on all levels) all you deserving vets that are having trouble getting the VA to rate or re-rate your disability based on legitimate issues, more to come to help you as well on moving your efforts forward.

Hold on until March! You are the ones that deserve it! and I stand at attention to you with all respect earned!
erik, on January 29th, 2009 at 11:00 am Said:

ERIC-I knew you never served I can tell that just by the way you write,my suspicions are confirmed that you are a coward,plain and simple.The statement you made that veterans are not all heroes is pathetic as are you sir,as for the line I stand in I fought in the Gulf War itself,not just visiting after the battle as you did,and my health will never be the same.
Eric, on January 30th, 2009 at 8:17 am Said:

Erik:
Aah - Now I understand the bitterness. Perhaps we can help you and give some recommendations as to how you can better yourself and your life? Tell us more so we can help and give you resources or direct you to the right people.

So, anyone that serves is therefore entitled to take forever and ever amen? and others that have not served regardless of their sacrifice to the US is unworthy?

Erik, I suspect we can help you. And, that is what I am talking about. The Vets that really need the help, phsyically, emotionally, financially, you bet, you deserve to be up front and center.

Its the individuals that knowingly scame the system that need to be drawn out so that more effort and resources can be put to use to those of you that need it. Understand?
erik, on January 30th, 2009 at 10:34 am Said:

Well I have applied numerous times for VA disability for gulf war syndrome (multiple undiagnosed symptoms,the VA just admitted its real by the way) and I have been turned down multiple times! I personnaly dont see how ANYONE can game the sysytem!The VA does not even approve LEGITAMATE claims!there is such a bs system in place I doubt very very seriusly that many claims are fraudulant!like I said real disabled vets like myself cant even get approved!!!
erik, on January 30th, 2009 at 10:46 am Said:

Also,as far as your forever and ever amen statement goes, IT TAKES FOEVER AND EVER AMEN FOR THE VA TO ADMIT GULF WAR SYNDROME IS REAL!! WHAT?? 18 YEARS NOW! AND FINALY THEY ADMIT THERES SOMETHING TO IT?? COME ON DUDE! GET REAL!
Eric, on January 30th, 2009 at 8:36 pm Said:

Erik,

I can understand your pain. Let me respond to you later this week as to help give you some recommended direction on who to talk with.

First thing though is to back down on the hositilty.(I know that is easier said than done though for anyone) If you really want to process through it, you have to proceed surgically with your information presented. ok?
erik, on February 2nd, 2009 at 12:53 pm Said:

Thats all I wanted to say,and I think I proved my point! YOU have never filed a VA claim for benifits so you have no idea what you are talking about. Those which have never served should shut the hell up about whitch matters they know not anyway!
Eric, on February 2nd, 2009 at 9:43 pm Said:

Erik: I suspect the VA is able to discern between bitter entitlement versus true disability. In these cases, possibly they do a great job.

Some people: make huge assumptions, judge others without cause or knowledge and just can’t be or dont want to be helped.

PS: Im a life long republican and I dont think this site is to be used for ongoing banter, rather, to help inform those looking for help or resources. Good luck to you, Erik.
Kelly, on February 10th, 2009 at 11:52 pm Said:

I have a Step Father, who was in the VN war. He has been employed (but lowly motivated to work hard) for the past 35+ years………….suddenly, he decides that because he never stayed at a job long enough to put together a decent retirement………..and can’t seem to work hard enough to keep a decent job over the past couple of years (not to mention the various fraudulent workmans comp claims and other scams, making it difficult for anyone to want to continue to employ him) that he would do better, to all of a sudden develop symptoms of PTSD. He went to the VA hospital and he and my mother checked several web sites on how to make the veterans disability system work for them. Suddenly, during his review process. this man that I have never seen unshaven in my life, grows his hair long, grows his nails long and a beard…………..all in the name of looking like the “crazy mentally incapable” to support his claim. From what I understand.
He even gets 100 extra dollars a month because he “claims” that he has some kind of erectile dysfunction, suddenly it is from his experience from VN. He and my mother laugh at the fact that they just take each of these claims at his word, no testing and he gets more money. With all the research and success that he has gained with his 100% disability, making more money each month than he and my mother (who use to need to work, but no longer, thanks to taxpayer dollars through the VA) they successfully coach others now, who are trying to figure out how to “work the system” and live off the government like they do. Yes, there are those who have been severely damaged in the heroic service to our country. It is sad, very sad when and if they do not get the compensation that they deserve, however, for every one of those cases, there are 30-40 lazy, lowly motivated individuals with some kind of entitlement disorder sucking the life out of the very system that could be meeting the needs of those who really deserve it. You can see this type of fraudulent drain in many levels of the system not only in the VA.
When you think of it, wouldn’t a trauma doctor who witnesses knives sticking out of peoples heads, children coming in burned from parental abuse, or worse babies who are raped., would these people not easily qualify for PTSD for what they see each and every day in their line of work?
Or perhaps the children that were abused, if for some reason, do not seem to keep a job long enough to save up some kind of retirement, qualify for PTSD, and be entitled to some kind of benefits?!!!!
Get real!
Brad, on February 16th, 2009 at 7:55 am Said:

Great posts everyone. Report fraud - but know what it is. The stress and tribulations endured by Military members is unique and only understood by those who have served. I echo the words of some when I say that if you have never served - know what you are talking about or be quiet. Many benefits are extended to vets and rightly so. Va Disability works on a rating system. A vet could easily get a 100% rating and still maintain a full time, rigorous job. It because of the rating system. VA disability is no different in terms of a benefit than the GI Bill. What’s next - you guys have a problem with funding college for vets? It’s a benefit that exists under current law. It’s offered and available when one signs up. Injuries do NOT have to occur ON DUTY or IN COMBAT to be considered, regardless of the original intention the laws have changed to include any injury suffered during active duty or made worse by Military time. The stories you DO NOT hear about on these posts are those that are perfectly legitimate - and represent the overwhelming majority of claims. I fully intend on submitting a claim when I get out for my shoulder injury that occured while skiing and my sleep apnea that might have developed anyways - and there is no shame or loss of pride in that. The point is that they occured while on Active Duty - and the law provides for benefits. “If you don’t want to stand behind our troops - feel free to stand in front of them!”
Bob, on February 18th, 2009 at 11:09 am Said:

Fradulent VA claims ARE a reality, it’s obvious those who deny it’s happening are either part of the problem or just haven’t withessed it? Unfortunately the VA has to rely mostly on claiments “honesty” when it comes to PTSD, and unfortunately there are more than a few dishonest people out here that have no problem gaming the hand-out system…like it or not. Laws and lawyers are what’s created most of the problems this country faces now, like it or not. We have a fraud here in town that laughs at how he’s scammed the VA for his 100% PTSD claim, he LAUGHS about it…he’s a bit hurt by the fact his buddies he served with in Vietnam are disgusted with him and won’t talk to him anymore, but in his eyes his new ATV’s, ultralight airplane, new diesel pickup, 7 acre ranch, gun collection, new this year shop, etc…etc.. all bought by the taxpayers, are well worth it for him. It boils down to a matter of honor in a lot of cases, some have it, some don’t. He obviously don’t. Unfortunateley these days, many don’t. PTSD in WW1, WW2 vets? I can see the time coming when everyone (with little or no honor) will be filiing a claim of some sort upon discharge…..it’s the welfare syndrome created by lawyers. With the whole country goin down the shitter anyhow, might as well just hold our breaths and enjoy the ride.
erik, on February 23rd, 2009 at 10:58 am Said:

Geez, dude get a grip and step into reality! I would love to live in your fantasy-land where disabled veterans own 7 acre ranches, ultralight airplanes!! We disabled vets recieve barley enough deserved compensation to live on, what is pathetic is your notion that we are millionaires ahhhhhhaaaaa, bob how many brain cells do you have???
Kay, on February 24th, 2009 at 11:49 am Said:

Here’s my question. A former employee spent a few months in the military, claimed he hurt his back, and has now been out for 10 years. He has been collecting 100% disability for most of that time. He bragged that he gets all the good drugs, and couldn’t lift over 35 lbs, and doesn’t have to work. How is it then that he can load feed and posts while working at a farm store? After he was fired from the job for stealing, he went to work for a farmer! Now he does all kinds of lifting, while still getting benefits. I was in the military for nine years, and have a bad knee. I could collect quite a bit for it, but I feel that there are other veterans that deserve it more than I. As long as I can work, I don’t want to collect. Why are people allowed to abuse a system that was meant to support service members? What can I do? It just isn’t right, and I didn’t give up almost a decade of my life to watch people milk the government.
Richard Brassaw, on February 24th, 2009 at 12:29 pm Said:

Kay,

Take a look at Eric’s comment posted January 25th, 2009 (scroll up and you’ll find it.)

The VA receives a large number of fraud reports. Some of the fraud reports are fraudulent reports coming from disgruntled wives, husbands, girl/boy friends, employees and employers, and people who do not understand the person’s disability. This makes legitimate fraud reports that much harder to spot and act upon.

A common misconception are the soldiers who suffer PTSD. They look okay, are able to do physical labor, but are emotional wrecks. In the case of the person you mentioned it is possible that he tells people that his disability is a back injury because he is too embarrassed to say that he has a psych disability. I mention this because you say he was fired from the grain store. Was it for anti-social behavior? If so there may be more to his story than just a bad back.

If the real issue is PTSD the VA will disregard your report. If it is solely based on a bad back, then they will investigate. The fraud reports that can substantiate their fraud claims are most likely to get attention.

Contact information for reporting VA Fraud:

You can contact the Department of Veterans Affairs’ hotline at (800) 488-8244, between 8:30 am - 4:00 pm EST, Monday through Friday–excluding Federal holidays. Write the VA hotline at: VA Inspector General Hotline (53E), P.O. Box 50410, Washington, DC 20091-0410. Or contact them by email: vaoighotline@va.gov
Kay, on February 25th, 2009 at 10:17 pm Said:

Richard-
I am very aware of PTSD. I was in the military up until three years ago, and sadly know a few people that have PTSD. I know it is a real disorder. Unfortunately, the aforesaid person does not have PTSD. He claims he injured himself in Basic Training. It is also very convenient that his older brother injured himself in Basic Training and also collects full disability. Look, the guy was fired for stealing, and lying to our boss. I am not a gold diggger, back stabber, or by any means, disgruntled. Yet I was raised to be an honest person. And a long time ago, Uncle Sam taught me that I needed to document things in triplicate. (My own knee issues with the military.) It’s just something that suck with me. When I noticed that things were coming up missing at the store, I followed the trail. I told my boss, he didn’t believe me. Knowing that I didn’t want myself or other employees to get blamed, I kept copies of invoices and took pictures. When the boss finally asked me again how I knew, I handed him a file about 4 inches thick. He believed me then. As far as I know, theft is not a symptom of PTSD. So, should I send the VA pictures of this guy shingling his house, or would they like the ones where he’s loading feed, or carrying an 85lb calf? I’ve got the pictures, what do I need for paperwork? I want to do it right. The way I figure it, I’m tired of giving this guy my tax dollars. There are good men and women in this country who deserve it more.
Richard Brassaw, on February 25th, 2009 at 11:33 pm Said:

Kay,

I believe you. The best thing to do is to contact the VA with all of the facts as you can throw at them. They get a lot of complaints and are going to act more quickly on those cases that are well documented.

Don’t give up. When you contact the VA get a call back number and keep calling to check on the status of the investigation.

The more paperwork you generate for the office workers is one trick to getting results.
Jane, on March 14th, 2009 at 12:10 pm Said:

Here is one for the books. I know a couple, too lazy to work. Through a friend they found out about VA Disability. He was a veteran and searched and searched and found that he now has Post traumatic stress disorder. He played the system and played the system. He is normal in public, however as soon as he goes to the VA, the acting begins. He was awarded 100% because of his acting skills. Now his wife needs benefits. She too now get VA medical without ever being a veteran. She has better benefits than I do. VA wake up!
erik, on March 15th, 2009 at 12:06 am Said:

Jane,there is no such thing as aformer veteran,look up the definition of veteran,also the spouses of veterans who are 100% disabled are entitled to free health care and education the spouse DOES NOT HAVE TO BE A VETERAN, again sadly I hear nothing but jealous people and ignorant people above, who know nothing of V.A. REGULATIONS OR GUIDLINES!!
Heike, on March 23rd, 2009 at 10:14 am Said:

My separated husband is diagnosed with PTSD. I do know that he doesn’t have that. I know he was asking every veteran what he should claim to get money from VA and he searched the internet. He is faking all that, but VA is that dumb to pay that man 30 % disability for something he doesn’t have. He doesn’t suffer from anything. He is just an alcoholic and drug abuser and that didn’t come from being in the Army. He did that before he joined the Army.
I heard that you get more money if you claim your family? Is that correct? Because if this is the case I will report that fraud.
How much can a guy get with PTSD. My separated husband isn’t working since July 2008. He got fired from his DOD job and I can’t blame them either. He is just too lazy to work and now he is drawing his compensation benefits from VA and goes to VA meetings each week to tell the doctors there all kinds of lies to get more benefits and I guess that he doesn’t have to work anymore. What he does is below the belt line and wrong but all those guys don’t see that.
There is something wrong in your system and not just with VA. This guy I am talking about is doing fraud with the IRS and Department of Human Resources (food stamps, family assistance) and noone does anything against it. In my opinion this guy has to go behind bars, but I don’t know how to proofe all that yet.
angry, on March 27th, 2009 at 11:31 am Said:

True Story:

My Step-Father was in the military for 6 months worked as a cook. He was supposed to stay in for 2 years but was removed because he had ‘issues’ and ‘an inability to get along with others as well as an inability to not be able to take orders from others.’ Fast forward 20 years. He finds out that as a direct result of his ‘removal’ from the military he is eligible for VA benefits. You bet cha — he signed up the very next day.

Here is what he gets in addition to his disability every month:

1. Methadone for pain management.

2. Loratab for pain management.

3. Darvon for pain management.

5. Breathing treatments to treat asthma.

6. In addition to all of the above he gets a ton of other various medications such as vaseline in a tube etc.

Now let me tell readers the reality of what he gets and does with this stuff. I know because I live in the home and have witnessed this more times than I can count.

The pain medicine[s] are taken to a guy that he trades with. He trades [and/or sells] the pain medicine for either lawn mower parts or money. The breathing treatments are sold to people who can use them but can’t afford them so he sells them the breathing treatments at reduced prices verses what that one would have to pay from a local drug store. This man I speak of has never been able to keep a job over 6 months because ‘the boss asked me to do something I don’t think I should be doing’ or ‘the boss always picks on me.’

This man owned an operated a grocery store for 6 years under my step sister’s name so it wouldn’t interfere with his benefits. He made money and did all the physical work himself and had about 10 employees working for him. The taxes etc were listed in my step sisters name. The step sister also gets disability which she got hers started at age 25. I made the fatal mistake one day of explaining what PTSD was and she admitted herself into a hospital claiming she was having thoughts of ‘killing herself.’ When she got out the FIRST place she went was to file for disability. She was approved the first time . To this very day and she is currently 43 she will laugh and tell any one she meets how she has forced the government to take care of her. She has never held a job over 6 months.

I have worked HARD all of my life and paid my taxes etc. With the new possible health care changes? I applaud them. Let me say that I’m a true socialist at heart [You know you love em J]. Having said that I do hope that the health care plan is cost effective. I pray that this new plan does stop as much fraud as they can because fraud is a SERIOUS issue. I can only imagine how many other people across this country share the story I have and have family members that abuse the system. Don’t bother reporting them. Doesn’t do any good. The step sister gets food stamps every month and she has an illegal immigrant she is supposedly married to but the food stamp office says that since he is illegal she cant claim his income. So she says. Therefore? His income [apx. 2500 monthly] isn’t recorded. Yet she still qualifies for food stamps every month.

Where is the logic in all of the above?

Back to the medical supplies as I could talk all day about fraud I see. We have so much medical equipment within our home that hasn’t ever tbeen used the first time. The companies that make the equipment etc call my mom and/or step father and tell them how ‘much better this equipment would be for them’ and how they need it. Then they call their doctors and there ya have it. New equipment that they never needed in the first place but costs for 1 chair $3500. The government really needs to stop this type of fraud.

The bottom line is this man I speak of SELLS the drugs that the VA sends him. He never takes the first one because he says he ’isn’t in pain.’ As for the disability? He has ripped that off for years as well.

Oh? I gotta go now. UPS is here with my step fathers monthly supply of drugs. I have to sign for them and he will come pick them up and sell them.
Minnie, on March 31st, 2009 at 9:15 am Said:

I believe this to be true. The VA’s in PGH, ERIE, BUFFALO are shopping points for narcotics. Oxicotin, Oxicodone and Morphine are prescribed casually to at least 2 people that I know. Niether one has any serious injuries. In the real world these drugs are given for people after surgery or Cancer patients.

These 2 individuals are addicts and sell the drugs for extra income. One is active in the DAV and his battle wound was a bullet in the hand years ago. He drives a Harley and parks in the handicapped parking zone. As a matter of fact both of these dope heads drive Harley’s.

How would you like it if your kids were in the street when these guys are driving around??
This is sickening for the simple fact that our Veterans coming back from Iraq and Veterans from the Korean war are left out of benefits.

These pill popping degenerates have taken advantage of a system that is corrupt and learned how to advance their Benifit claims to 145% by using other medical records to figure out how they can up their Disability claims.

One woman that has never seen battle is anorexic and she receives 145%! She claims she was raped while in active duty. Unfortunatley she was anorexic long before she was in the service. she lives with the doper in Erie, who she paid to get her benefits by giving him free room and board.

This is all common knowledge by the employees of the VA, but they want thier records pristine, as for the DAV.

This one joker has been investigated and reported to the IRS, SS, DAV, VA and local State Police and nothing was done.

Well, at least they won’t be worried about their jobs.
kay, on April 9th, 2009 at 10:21 am Said:

[edited by admin] Did it ever occur to you that these people riding motercycles or putting shingles on their house or liffting feed at the store are on pain killers that help them get through the day and be able to function. It is hard to fake back injury with the VA. They do test and take an MRI there disabilty for a back injury is decieded upon the evidence they have if you have herniated buldging discs in the back a MRI will prove that if there is none the MRI will also prove that. The VA will not rate you for a back issue if they can’t find one. Mind your business and stop hating.

Also you can be 100% disabled and still have a job that is allowed. There is 2 different types of VA disability. One you are allowed to work one you are not get your facts straight before you judge people. You do not know what is really going on inside these people. They could really be hurting and just do not want to show it or they could be so drugged up that at the time they dont feel it.
Fed-Up, on April 11th, 2009 at 2:30 pm Said:

Love your answer Kay!! I have a jilted ex who is bitter and apparently because his life sucks for him, he is, at all costs attempting to sabotage my VA benefits. I am 100% disabled through the VA, I have had back surgery and knee surgery and suffer chronic headaches and pain constantly, I was also diagnosed with PTSD and some depression (I lost my military career due to my injury). Sometimes looking at me you wouldn’t know if I had injuries or not, I have learned many coping mechanisms to mask the pain, it doesn’t always work though. I do have the ability to work but not at the same level I was able prior to my injury. My injuries or no longer visible on the outside, but they linger in my body and they will forever. People should not judge a book by it’s cover. I have struggled with this saying ever since my injury because it is so true, but people prefer to judge!

My ex has filed a claim with the VA claiming that I am a fraud!! Unbelievable what depths people go to in order to make themselves feel better! While I believe there is fraud out there within the VA system, it goes back to what you said, if an MRI shows an injury, kind of hard to fake isn’t it? I guess that makes me a fraud since my injury indeed did show up on an MRI as did my knee and they did require surgery.

This website has only enabled my bitter ex and many other jilted ex’s to go after people with a vengeance. I hope my ex can take away the MRI results, back surgery and knee surgery away from the VA to prove I’m a fraud. Shame on the people who are miserable in their own lives that they feel the need to go after other people. How sad their lives must be and how miserable of an existance they lead.
Richard Brassaw, on April 11th, 2009 at 3:16 pm Said:

Fed-Up,

Thank you for your comment.

On the point that it is impossible to tell if someone is disabled I agree. I’ve even witnessed a cop chased down (with lights and siren) a disabled driver who had just pulled out of a disabled parking space.

The officer told the disabled driver that he did not honor disabled placards based on psych reasons. What the officer didn’t know is that this individual had surgeries–as you have.

It is appreciated that you bring out the point that a disability is not always worn like a scarlet letter. The public needs to be educated on this point (as do some police officers.)

This article in not intended to cause harassment for those who are legitimately disabled. Instead it is to help stop the fraudulent claims that make it difficult for the rest who are actually disabled. As for the revengeful harassment we both know a legitimate claim is going to stick regardless of what a revenge seeking ex- is going to claim. You are lucky to be free of the guy.
Fed-Up, on April 14th, 2009 at 2:21 pm Said:

Richard,

Unfortunately, what this website has done is provide a place for people to harass innocent people. My ex, on a daily basis, literally harasses me about my disability. While I know nothing will come of his threats to the VA, it is upsetting to think this person will stop at nothing to go after me and in the process is harming our child with this behavior he exhibits in front of our child and that as long as I live I will have to deal with this “mentally ill” person because we have a child together. Where’s the website for that? God knows the judicial system certainly doesn’t enforce harassment charges.
Richard Brassaw, on April 14th, 2009 at 2:47 pm Said:

Fed-Up,

With all due respect this site does not harass the innocent. Please use the contact form to signal out any specific content that you feel does otherwise.

Dealing with a disability is difficult enough to deal with much less having to be distracted by the looming threat of harassment–be it the VA, insurance companies, banks, employment, etc. The important thing to focus on are the things that you can do something about and to let the rest go. If something is out of your control, then stop trying to control it, because the result will always be the same. It will drive you crazy and change nothing.
Fed Up with Fraud, on April 14th, 2009 at 5:45 pm Said:

It will be interesting to see the outcome from Fed Up and the alledged, allegations.

Some people that claim disability want to then claim complete excellent mental and physical health when it comes to a divorce and child custody battle.

Fact is, you can’t be healthy and fit for a divorce and then when it comes to the VA, be completely disabled. Yes, the analysis goes much deeper than this however.

I happen to know of one case very similar to what you are describing and the judge in the divorce case went so far as to state in his findings and decree that the one spouse was competely healthy on a physical basis “despite the VA findings” and that this person had excellent mentall health with no concerns. This particular couple had to undergo physical examinations and multiple physch evaluations.

The reports that were generated from the divroce/civil trial were in complete contrast to the VA reports.

Fed -Up - please update us on your “issues” as it would be helpful for all on this site to see what happens. Are you 100% disabiedy as defined by the VA or …….? I am sure someone will report back to this web site to provide follow up.
Leonard, on April 15th, 2009 at 11:50 am Said:

I tried to have my disabilities increased for my back. I tried to do every thing in the book. Had the va take X-rays of my lower back. So to increased my chances to get a higher evaulation I had an MRI done on the back. It show rupted bugling and herinated disc. However the VA stated in their letter that my back showed “remarkable” improvement. Tell me it is fair, I am retired military and pay my own disability. The system is not fair. And now I have to take about 3 pills every six-eight hours to make it through the day.
Richard Brassaw, on April 15th, 2009 at 4:25 pm Said:

Leonard,

Is it fair? Absolutely not! When it comes to benefits for the disabled in either the private or public sector. There are too many individuals who desperately need help, but don’t get it–IMHO.

It appears that each VA office is runned by different standards for disability benefits. Dealing with them sometimes turns out to be a suckers bet because they act friendly while all the time gathering information to help their case for denial.

Start by asking around if anyone else has had a case similar to yours in your particular VA and find out their outcome. Sometimes they make you jump through hoops before they approve a claim (in my opinion it is to help cut down the fraud, but for the legitimate claims it is like falling into Alice’s Wonderland.)

Read over your contracts and see if there is any way to contest their diagnoses. You may need an attorney’s help with this. Please find someone who specializes in this area of the law. Most attorney’s really don’t know how to deal with these kind of cases nor do they have the files needed to make effective arguments.

Most important of all let those close to you help you. If they are willing (and you feel they are up to it) let them be your advocate. When you feel crappy it is difficult to handle this stuff on your own.

It seems that over the past few decades it has become standard-operating-procedure to deny everyone when they first file a claim. It happened to my father when he filed a claim in Los Angles for a service related injury. After denying him benefits they wanted him to fly to the east coast to contest the denial.

He could well afford to fly east. Fortunately, my father saw that a lot of people where getting screwed so he worked with a senator to get the law changed to require the VA to make it more convenient for claimants to pursue an appeals.

Regarding your pain. Don’t get me started on how poorly pain management is handled in this country.

Good luck and let us know your progress.
Still Fighting, on April 16th, 2009 at 1:42 pm Said:

Fed Up with Fraud…..

You appear to be either misinformed or highly assumptive in your response to “Fed Up” and in your understandings of VA disability. I assume you personally have not undergone any form of VA disability evaluation or else you would clearly see how erroneous your posts are. You stated:
” Fact is, you can’t be healthy and fit for a divorce and then when it comes to the VA, be completely disabled. Yes, the analysis goes much deeper than this however.”

It appears your issues are not VA fraud related but more concerned about the family judiciary system. The “fact” is the two are completely unrelated. The VA disability rating system has nothing to do with divorce competency, or parenting competency. It only relates physical or mental conditions related to a military member’s time in service, and NOT NECESSARILY directly related to a line of duty injury. The VA looks at your health from when you entered service, and then your health when you leave service, regardless if you are retired or given an honorable discharge. Now, there is a different system that rates disabilities as well…this is the Military Disability system which ONLY rates disability as a result of LINE OF DUTY injuries. Let me explain. You see, I personally have two different disability ratings…one from my line of duty injuries which is 50%, of which resulted in a medical retirement due to injuries I received while serving in Iraq. Thus, as a veteran, I also have a rating from the VA system that is 85%. The VA included things that the military did not, such as hearing loss. SO, it is very likely that a 100% disability rating from the VA does not in ANY WAY affect ones ability to be competent for a divorce or to be a parent.

It seems as if you are on some witch hunt to identify someone who you feel is committing VA disability fraud. I am sure, like so many others who are misinformed, or not fully knowledgeable on this subject, you probably assume someone with a 100% disability rating should be laying in a bed as an invalid. Perhaps you look at someone with such a rating and see them, walking, or bending over, or picking up something and think “that is fraud, they are not disabled.” Well, you are obviously very fortunate to not have disabilities yourself, since you have NO understanding of what it is like to live with disabilities that are not obvious to others. For example, if you saw me, I look completely “normal.” In fact, I walk, I bend over, I pick things up, I work, I have a family, I do physical activities, etc. BUT unlike you, I do all of these things while in constant pain. I have had a headache for over 4 years now that never goes away, I cannot feel parts of my face, my hand, or my foot. My muscles are constantly spasming, my hand shakes, and I always feel like I have an ear infection. I cannot sleep for more than an hour or so at a time because the pain wakes me up, and I can hardly be still because as soon as I try to sit and relax all I can concentrate on is how much I hurt. I lost my career and can no longer work in a field I trained hard for, made many sacrifices for, and would have been able to continue doing in the civilian world. I fought for over three years to try and recover from my injuries and not get kicked out of the military, and even now I am still fighting to get better, but my military career is over. So now, I have to start all over because although I receive a retirement check each month, it is hardly enough to raise a family on, especially since I am a single parent. Since I am in my 30’s I have many years left to live, thus, I have no choice but to work to supplement my income however I certainly cannot replace the income or potential career I had, without further education so I am now fighting for the benefits that I AM entitled to for education. But it is a long road because the system is so overburdened, and people who try to bog it down with false accusations of fraud only make it more difficult.

I suppose the other option for all of us on “disability” who “appear” to be fine, is that we could just sit on the welfare system and do nothing with our lives but feed off of even more tax dollars. But I am sure if we did that, then the likes of you would then go after us for being parasites to the welfare system, but if we actually try to continue our lives, work, and educate ourselves we are considered “frauds”? I guess it is a no win situation….Perhaps you should spend your time being grateful for your health and well being instead of worrying about someone else’s situation that you have absolutely no understanding of.
Fed Up with Fraud, on April 16th, 2009 at 3:55 pm Said:

Response to Still Fighting:
Sounds as though your disablity is legitimate. Anyone that chooses to scam the government should pay 2 fold back to society and reality is, there needs to be gatekeepers and mechanisms for people to report fraudulent behavior. I for one choose not to bury my head in the sand.

Quite simply, I guess the best next reply is to update you on the results from “Fed Up”.

Not much more to say on this one. good luck to you.

Will be in touch soon.
Floyd L Shelton, on April 21st, 2009 at 7:33 pm Said:

I was going through all these little blogs and I came to various conclusions.I find a lot of anger in people in regards to what Veterans are receiving and it really got my goat when I read about the people trying to turn their own family members in for individuals that signed their name down saying yes you can take my life so others can live in a free democracy and yes you can take my life so they can sit there on their computers and bitch about what is fare or what is not fare in regards to veterans that has allowed them to live in a free society by signing away their freedom.
Sure there are people that don’t deserve to get bogus claims but one thing is for sure and that is that it is not only the VA has these issues it is the society and the Governments in a whole from the State to the National level that has claims that are false.This is our world and it is my belief that people that do not have anything better to do then bitch about a few bad apples seriously should file a claim for stupidity themselves then they would know that every person is different and they may not be super humans like the people bitching and maybe they would be able to comprehend what it means to say I will die for the freedom of my country and all those that live within her borders.
Now for as far as the clowns that think you have to see peoples heads blown off to collect a mental disorder.Try living four years on a ship that has one drinking source and that source has been contaminated with lead from the paint the military used to paint the fresh water holding tanks,or maybe you can imagine Asbestos flying around your head and berthing compartment because of cracked insulation not to mention the effects thirty years after from breathing these little fibers.Of course then there were the cockroach infestations nothing like having roaches in your food to.But the real Mccoy was being sent to a ammunition ship that for four years you slept on hundreds of mega tons of explosives some nuc some not.If you want to know what happens when one blows………check the archives for the Concord navel weapons station , maybe you will find that the anchor is still on top of Mt Diablo.So to all that think you need to be on the front line think again and do all the Vets one justice and quit complaining about the veterans that signed there names so people like you can continue to find something to complain about.
Richard Brassaw, on April 21st, 2009 at 8:10 pm Said:

Floyd,

We must be reading different comments because there is no one disrespecting servicemen and women who serve this country. On the contrary. People are upset that a few rotten apples who feign a disability to collect on benefits intended for those who have earned them.

You mention Asbestos contamination. Perhaps you’d like to know that the Navy knew about the dangers in the early 1900 and choose to ignore the dangers and suppress the facts. I don’t know about you, but I find it disturbing when any military service knowingly jeopardizes our troops. A more recent example is when troops where given vehicles that were not reinforced against land mines or other explosive devices. How about families who sent bullet proof jaks to their loved ones because the military didn’t supply them? I can’t think of anything more disturbing than when those in charge withhold information or equipment that places our troops in danger.

In regards to PTSD. Clearly you have misjudged what several people had written in defense of Vets suffering mental disorder. In short, there is no way to judge a person’s mental or physical condition by looking at them. People who need treatment for PTSD often have their claim denied by the VA. So, rather than jump all over the people here, start looking at how certain VA hospitals have had a policy of denying PTSD claims.

Why do you suppose the VA has such harsh actions against PTSD claims? I can’t believe that they are that cold hearted. Could it be that too many suspect claims were filed? I can’t say, but it certainly doesn’t help matters. Perhaps you’ve judged people’s anger against fraudulent claims to be against the Vets who have served us. You couldn’t be more wrong. It is against the frauds who make life difficult for those who have served this country by filling false claims.

You really need to look at the disability claims being denied by the VA. Not for fraud mind you, but seemingly legitimate claims. If you want to get angry get angry at how the VA treats some of the Vets who need the help the most. Start with how the Gulf War Syndrome was handled. Who is to say the VA is denying the claims to stop fraud abuse or as a budgetary matter. In the end it doesn’t matter because it is the Vet that suffers.

For those who truly honor our Vets it is disturbing to watch as disabled Vets are denied benefits. What you’ve missed is that those ‘few bad apples’ set a precedence that contributes to the VA having to raise the bar resulting in Vets not getting the care they need.
Floyd L Shelton, on April 21st, 2009 at 11:43 pm Said:

I am not sure what you are reading either but let me assure you I am well educated on behalf of my own service connection .Maybe I should direct my comments to several blogs I read about people wanting to turn veterans in for as they stated “filing a bogus claim” It is not my intention to misread or be obstinate with the facts and the facts are certainly clear.It is a national commitment to provide every veteran who suffered a service related disability with compensation to offset the loss of earning capacity owing to the injury or disease. Within this pledge is a special provision whereby a disabled veteran who is unemployable owing to a disability will be compensated at a rate of 100%even if his or her disability is not totally disabling (100%) .
The controlling regulations for this provision are 38 CFR 3.340(a)(2) and 38 CFR 4.16. In addition, the code regulations are backed by numerous court decisions clarifying the intent of congress.If a veteran is unemployable, this special benefit should be one of the easiest to establish.Unfortunately,it is one of the hardest claims to establish and it is one of the easiest benefits for the VA to terminate.
And the facts about as you stated ” I do not think the VA can be so cold hearted”. In the early 1980s there were more then 100,000 veterans in receipt of total disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) benefits.This began a movement in the VA to limit entitlement to this benefit.When the republicans moved into the white house in 1981, President Reagan and his administration moved to cut the costs of social programs.One of the biggest budget gobblers was the VA with it’s compensation and healthcare programs.Thanks to Reagans efforts to divert funds from the VA and other agencys to his missile projects, by the early 1900s, the number of veterans in receipt of TDIU was reduced to a little more then 60,000 nation wide.
The Va ordered a series of reevaluation examinations for veterans in receipt of TDIU.Many veterans were informed that their 100% disabilitys had improved and that in fact they could return to the work place.
The policy changed the way the va handled claims for TDIU and violated the provisions of 38 U.S.C. 7722 (Outreach Services) and 38CFR 3.103(a) (procedural due process and appellate Rights).Veterans Advocate reported that 200 veterans in receipt of TDIU benefits had been terminated in November 1992 while the central office approved only five veterans for benefits.This is how clever and also how ruthless the VA can be so with this I could lay facts on you all day long but I feel there is no need to do so.
I am educated with the facts of the Va and the military by serving and dealing with the systems for decades.I know how Vets have sacrificed because I am one myself and I know the Va because I have been involved with their antics for decades.I would be quick to not Judge ones intentions unless I was informed and educated in the subject I am involved.Futhermore, I am not here with the intent to bash or get in a shooting match about matters clearly some do not understand because they have not lived in the same horror as I have or the Veterans I think of with the utmost of respect.
Richard Brassaw, on April 22nd, 2009 at 7:40 am Said:

Floyd,

We are in complete agreement. We have the same goal. We agree that the VA makes a concerted effort to deny benefits. We ALSO agree that there are a few bad apples who submit fraudulent claims.

What you appear to be bothered by is that several people have written to express their anger at (what they believe) are Vets who have gamed the system. As a result many believe that the fraudulent claims take money away from Vets who deserve to have it.

It appears that you are not bothered by the ‘few bad apples’–others are not so generous and are deeply bothered. Everyone wants those who have served and have been disabled (including both mental and physical) to have every benefit they are entitled to have.

Your point of Reagan’s social programs being cut is something else we agree on. I’ll do you one even better. It was during Reagan’s term that they also took the teeth out of the FDA. One only has to look at the history of Aspartame’s approval to see how that administration weakened good policies.

Perhaps you skipped over a few posted comments. In particular the one about the ruthlessness of the VA to deny claims and how my own father was affected. He saw that many claimants were being affected and with the help of his senator got the law changed.

People are upset more at the VA’s treatment of Vets. When they see someone (they believe) abusing the system they want to do something. The reason? Because they feel the scammer is taking something away from someone who rightfully deserves those benefits. If you will take a moment and think about this you will see that we are on the same page, with the same purpose, with the same goal.
Julian, on April 24th, 2009 at 2:27 pm Said:

I’m 23 years old Iraq veteran. I receive 90%. This is for Diabetes “1,387 sugar level “(with nerve damage) taking 2 types of insulin/pills (Oh i guess its because I’m obese wrong!!!!!!, Generalized anxiety, back, and feet problems. I’m able to do basic daily thing; walk, stand, sit. So what just because i don’t have blown off legs or hands or missing eyes I don’t deserve benefits.

Personally I believe If you have not served in the military, you should shut your mouth!!!!! Whether or not they went oversees or not doesn’t matter. The point is they sacrificed there time to serve, And look what you people are doing with your freedom, complaining about how that person is milking the system. Sad Sad times we live in today.

Now as for compensation, you folks need to realize that most conditions are symptomatically chronic, which means throughout life problems occur.

Its a sad day when people make money more important over others needs. What about people who are on welfare and haven’t lifted a finger, what about inmates in prison. We spend over 40 billion a year on rapist and serial killers…etc. What about AIG, fanny mae, GM…etc. What about the time you people spend your money on stupid things and run credit cards up to $10,000 which by the way is the national avg.

Everyone who is receiving compensation has served there country. Regardless of what your enviousness which is sad because I’ve never seen and heard in my life more people complaining about people receiving money they’ve earned.

You know $1600, or $2400 a month is beans!!!!!! My mom makes that in a week, how is someone who you think appears to be “faking” disability supposed to do that. Come on people WAKE UP. Show some restraint and dignity.

And to that envious brother who posted about his brother…. That’s sad that you would even talk about your family in that matter. You need to be ashamed. Nobody told you that you had to retire from the military, and think that was the ticket, also the mere fact that you lower other people losing there lives in a crash just shows what type of a person you’re. Your brother has compassion for people.
Richard Brassaw, on April 24th, 2009 at 3:28 pm Said:

Julian,

My hope is that the VA is doing everything possible to help you.

As you mentioned it is sad when those paying out disability benefits put money before treatment (and assistance.) It is particularly distressing when it is the VA who puts the screws to those Vets who obviously need the benefits, but denies them by claiming that the disease doesn’t exist (Gulf War Syndrome), or that the benefit isn’t covered (because of a loophole), or that the solider doesn’t suffer from anything (PTSD).

It is upsetting to see politicians visit VA wards, where there are soldiers who have lost a limb or have been disfigured, because it makes for a good photo op. Those same politicians avoid the psych ward because those patients ‘look normal’ and don’t make a good photo op.

Most of all, I’m bothered that those who are in pain (emotional and/or physical) and least able to fight the system are abused by the system. (It happens all too often in both the public and private sector.)

I hope everyone who reads your post takes time to reflect on what happens to disabled Vets who have served their country and let their political leaders know how they feel.

This is not meant to bash the VA because there are a lot of good people who work there and are concerned for the Vet. Rather it is to call-out a system that lets Vets get tangled into a system that puts money before treatment and assistants.
gary kirk, on May 28th, 2009 at 9:02 am Said:

I am a vietnam vet.. I was blown to pieces.. can’t use my right hand ..8 surgeries.. all of it in vietnam in 1966 and today I get 10% ..I don’t understand all these people you speak about that get 100% for nothing. I have proof, everything, and yet can’t get more than 10%..so how did they get that 100% I sure couldn’t ..my VA service rep said if I complained they would take my 10% back.
Richard Brassaw, on May 28th, 2009 at 9:34 am Said:

Hi Gary,

Your situation is exactly what upsets people who know positively that VA fraud is taking place. Everyone wants the money to go to those who deserve and need it.

There is something seriously wrong with a VA service rep telling you that you’ll get zip if you complain. It is time for you to call your senators in D.C. and ask for help. Their staff members know perhaps more than anyone how the system works.

Please report back if they were able to help you.
Mary Cox, on May 31st, 2009 at 4:41 pm Said:

I have read these comment, and some of them make me sick to my stomach. I have not and could not ever be in a war, and I love and respect any soldier for giving me my freedom, but does that in turn give a soldier the right to take an innocent live here in America. I was just a little girl when the Vietnam War was over, but I feel like I suffer from PTSD myself after living with a veteran for twenty-seven years. I cannot imagine the things he saw and went through, but I stood beside him through thick and thin and tried to get him help. He is so bitter, that he thinks everyone owes him something, and he is not satisfied with anything. I do not mean disrespect to him or anyone else, but I feel there is a limit and he has crossed over. I loved this man for more than half my life, but when I see him committing fraud and not trying to get better, you tell me, what am I suppose to feel or do? If you have a suggestion, I am more than open to it. I would give my life for him and my children, but I’ll be Damm if I will let them kill me. I have been put through more than one wall because he said I reminded him of a gook. I have American Indian in me, and do not look like a gook at all. I never turned my back on him, not once, but when he keeps ordering medicine and lying to his doctors’ that is it. I have covered and protected him for almost thirty years, and it is time he steps up to the plate and gets his life together. I really wish some of you would not judge others when they say a veteran is committing fraud, it happens, and I did not put him in the war, but I have paid for it time and again. At this point I am just trying to survive, I have lost 60 pounds, am 5′7″ and wearing a size 4, and he has not missed a beat in his life. Tell me who suffers. All the bank notes are in my name, and everything but the house is in his name. It looks like to me, he is pretty calculating, and if he is as sick as he says he is, how? He says his PTSD won’t let him marry me after twenty-seven years, but I said his PTSD has let him live off me for twenty-seven years. This veteran has used peoples’ sympathy until everyone is fed up with him, and he is going to die a lonely old man. That breaks my heart, but there is nothing I can do for him if he refuses to help himself. God Bless and I Pray I have not offended anyone.. I do not have any friends because of him, and it has been a lonely six months without anyone to vent to. If I could only get the desire to live again back, I know I would be ok. I have always worked 12 hours a day, seven days a week or two full time jobs. Supporting myself is not the problem, I have just let this get me down so bad that I cannot work. I have started drinking, and I am not a drinker at all. When I don’t drink, all I do is cry for what should or could have been, then I fix a drink and face up to what it actually is. I feel it is time for him to be honest and get some serious help, it is free, all it cost him is his time. God Bless

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How & Where to report VA abuse and fraud

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