Texas VA and Disability Benefits List

There are losts of benefits out there that many don't know about for Texas Disabled Veterans.

I thought it would be a good idea to start a list here of any benefits that you have recieved in the past.

--Free Fishing and Hunting Super Combo License for 60% or greater disabled vet.

--Free state Park Admission for 60% or more.

--Disabled Vet License Plates

--Property Tax Exemption (100% if you're a 100% disabled vet)

--Hazlewood Act educational assistance. (tuition exemption)

--Free Drivers license for 60% disabled or more.


That's all I can think of off the top of my head. I know there are many businesses that give discounts and such, so if you know af any, list them on here.

You can drive right through the EZ tag lane because you are exempt from tolls

You get preferred parking at Sea World

You can park in most public parking to include airports, cruise ports, and parking meters for free.

Property Tax Exemption (100% if you're a 100% disabled vet) Only until you die because right now it does not pass to surviving spouse. The regular exemption does.

I didn't know about the EZ tag or the parking meters!

This listing is not off of an offical government site so double check anything on the list. If you see an error please post up or PM so I can delete or correct it. James



The State of Texas offers several advantages veteran.

(VLB), a division of the Texas General Land Office, manages loan programs three veterans’: The Land Loan Program, Veterans Housing Assistance Purchase Program and the Veterans Home Improvement Loan Program. Learn more about the Texas Veterans Land Board Programs




Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), a division of the Texas General Land Office manages the Texas State Veterans Homes program.



Financial assistance programs Texas

Tax exemption for veterans. Disabled veterans who meet certain requirements, for the surviving spouse and the spouse and minor children of a person who dies on active duty in the U. S. Armed Forces may qualify for property tax exemption on the appraised value of their property. The exemption is mandatory and applies to all taxes collected by the tax authorities of the State. A veteran whose service connected disabilities are less than 10% by the Department of Veterans Affairs or a branch of the armed forces is not set, a property tax due.



Texas State Veteran Education Benefits

The Hazlewood Act. War veterans who reside legally in Texas, where he entered military service, and Home of the records have been designated as Texas, the DD214, is entitled to an exemption from tuition and certain rights State-supported/public (taxpayer ) supported colleges and universities. This benefit is for the children of Texas soldiers who died or were killed in military service, and the children of Texas military, lacking evidence for action or prisoners of war. Also eligible are children of members of the Texas National Guard or Texas Air National Guard killed since January 1, 1946, in active service, whether in the service of Texas or the United States. Read more



Texas veteran programs work

Veterans preference. War veterans have killed preference in employment with government agencies or offices, as well as widows and children of active duty. State agencies must practice veterans ‘preference’, up to 40% occupancy reached veteran. Non-veterans, retired from the state of Texas employees are entitled to their active military duty for retirement, time is taken if the demand for and shall pay to the Retirement System the amount of fees for the retirement of up to 60 months of military credit. This contribution is included in the rate when veteran employees before removal of the system, to be paid plus accrued interest.



In addition, a veteran of reemployment rights for his latest employer is entitled, if he is released from the armed forces of the United States, provided that his absence is not more than four years. The right to reinstatement is independent of whether the veteran was, before the service, dependent on the state, county or municipality or by private industry. rights reintegration of veterans are now provided by both state and federal laws. Read more



Other Texas State Veteran Benefits

Program Texas State Cemetery. In November 2001 national elections, voters overwhelmingly Proposition 7, a constitutional amendment authorizing the creation of up to seven state cemeteries for veterans and their families claim approved. The cemeteries will be built and operated through a partnership between the State of Texas Veterans Board (VLB) and the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA). The USDVA is equal to 100 percent of construction costs and equipment. The state will own and operate the cemeteries and fund most of the cost of operations. Read more



No-Cost Medical Records

Under the Health and Safety Code, Chapter 161 Subchapter M 201, medical or mental health Records, Texas veterans are eligible for no cost medical records are obtained, is entitled to a disability against S. U. Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA file). The provider or health facility is not required to complete more than one record to the patient or former patient, without raising taxes. It should also be noted that some health facilities, a small administrative cost for the office documents.



Free license for disabled veterans

Texas Transportation Code Title 7, Chapter 521, Section 521 426, licenses free of charge to veterans of Texas driver, disabled services linked rated 60% or more established by the VA or a branch of the armed forces of the United States must apply for license expires before the fact. Application forms can be investigated by the Department of Public Safety to acquire license offices around the resident. We have a link, provided they have at the Department of Public Safety Texas Driver License information on the site. Application forms should be completed by the veteran and the VA to review the service connected rating of 60% or more. If disability is a veteran retired from the military and VA has no claim to file proof of disability must come from the respective branch of military service.



Fishing and hunting licenses for disabled veterans

Disabilities have the right of hunting and fishing licenses at special reduced prices. A disabled veteran of the armed forces of the United States, who has a service connected disability, as the Department of Veterans Affairs, compound obtained by the loss of the use of a limb or a lower disability scores of 60% or more defined and off is the United States for disability. A veteran resident, as described in the law can hunt wild turkeys and deer are not a resident hunting license if you purchased a resident hunting license exemption. We have a link to the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for your convenience.



Free admission for disabled veterans park

Free admission to Texas State Parks is available to any veteran, disability-related services, 60% or more VA, or a service connected disability that led to the loss of a leg he is evaluated. The application may be in the headquarters office of any Texas State Park, providing sufficient proof of service connected disabilities are provided. This is not the evidence readily available, can the VA regional office that is located in the claims should be sought. The Texas State Parklands Passport is available to any veteran who meets the requirements of disability if he or she lives in Texas. The pass offers free entry only in state parks and not someone exempt from paying other taxes, such as camping fees, etc. We have a link to the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for your convenience.



Free subscription of relief

According to the laws of the State of Texas Local Government Code Sec. 0192 002, secretary of the county in each state is required to register, free, official discharge of each veteran who served in the armed forces of the United States of America. This free service is very important as it provides veterans with a ready source from which they can obtain a certified copy of their discharge when needed. And ‘responsibility Veteran DD214 or discharge are recorded. Also note that if your DD214 entry with the secretary of the county, then there will be a public record. Note that the Texas Veterans Commission does not keep track of your DD214 or discharge.



Special license plates

disabled veterans, former prisoners of war, survivors of Pearl Harbor, Purple Heart and the Medal of Honor plates are among the distinguishing features available to eligible veterans and their survivors for personal use on their cars or light trucks of one ton or less . Disabled veterans have a service connected disability rating of 50% or 40% or more due to amputation of lower limbs. Former POWs are eligible if they were captured or detained by an enemy of the United States during a conflict with the United States and at admission were U.S. citizens. The authorization is valid for both former members of armed forces and civil rights of American citizens who were captured by an enemy of our government. For more information please contact the nearest vehicle title registration process or your county tax office.

To add to the disabled plates post you can park in handicap spots without the mirror placard.

I have the Disability plates and have had many opportunities to park in these places but then I look around and know there is someone out there that needs this place more than me. I guess guilt would get me if I parked in one.

On the disabled plates, yes you can park in handicap spaces without the mirror placard or the handicap symbol on the dis vet plates, as long as the space is not a Handicap-van accessible space. You DO have to have the symbol on your plates or the mirror placard to park in those spaces.

We just saved $130 in parking fees at DFW airport this week due to the Dis Vet plates.

If I go somewhere and there's an empty parking lot or my back is having a "bad day" I'll use them. Other than that I park in the regular spots.

You have to hang the placard on U.S. Government Property also.

Just got my plates and placard not long ago and I never noticed how many people park in those spaces that don't have a plate or placard.

Never noticed before until now that I need it, and doesn't seem to be enforced so I can see why people park there that shouldn't be.

If you have to add hand controls on your car or truck you do not have to pay sales tax.if you buy a new vehicle ,what ever make will give you $1000.00 to help get it ready for you to drive.you have to have put on by cert.person.I use national home heath,but there is alot of companies that do this.

I was under the impression that Dis Vet plates alone did not allow you to park in handicap spots ???

Nope...you were mistaken.

if they would make all parking spaces wider people in wheelchair would careless how close they are to the door.you park in a regular one and someone pull up to close and you can't get in

If you are a Texas Veteran you are eligable for 150 hrs of your college tuition waived at any Texas Accredited college. You may also transfer these hours to your child. If you have more than one child then you can split these hours up, unless you have already used them for yourself. I am 100% Service Connected and found out that my Children and my Wife each get 150 hours thru the Hazlewood act. So if any of you are 100% then all of your kids and spouse get 150 hrs tuition waived.

You still have to purchase an E-Z Tag When you get your statement it will show no tolls collected
You can park at both airports parking garages. When you get ready to exit the parking garage tell them you are a disabled vet they will step out of their booth to write down your Licenses plate # and you sign the ticket and that is it. You have to have DV License plates. You can get the required form from the VA Regional Office for DV plates. The plates are $4.00
Lowes and Home Depot give a 10% discount on any purchase.
Spring Dodge Crysler Dealership gives a $500.00 discount

You have to place Your Placard on your mirror on Government Property even if you have the DV Tags but that is the only places you have to hang the card. If you have DV Tags you can Park In ANY Civilian Disabled Parking Spot Without the Placard as long as you have DV Tags.
If you are in a Buddy's Car or Truck you can take Your Placard and use it on there vehicle as long as you Accompany The Card as it's being used on there vehicle.

Devildog, I read that too.Parked in a handicap spot at Wal Mart in Plano. The friendly officer smiled as he wrote me up, cost $525.00 last November, said MUST have placard !

McCain want to raise Tricare fees still higher again.

President Obama Signs Veterans Tax Credit Bill

If anyone doubted that veterans remain potent political symbols, they need look no further than Congress’s ability to set aside partisan gridlock last week and overwhelmingly enact legislation providing tax credits to businesses that hire veterans. Flanked by veterans advocates, President Obama signed the bill into law this morning.

The “VOW to Hire Heroes Act” will provide tax credits of up to $2,400 for employers who hire veterans who have been unemployed at least 4 weeks; up to $5,600 for hiring veterans who have been unemployed longer than 6 months; and up to $9,600 for businesses that hire veterans who have service-connected disabilities and have been unemployed longer than 6 months.
http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/21/president-oba...


http://legion.org/legislative/160285/obama-signs-jobs-bill-veterans

My Road Back to School, Thanks to the New GI Bill

About the Texas Veterans Commission

The Texas Veterans Commission is a state agency committed to ensuring all Veterans within the state of Texas receive the maximum benefits earned as a result of their service to their country. We provide superior service to Veterans in the areas of claims assistance, employment services, education benefits and reimbursement grants that significantly improve the quality of life of Texas Veterans and their families.


Sign up for the Texas E-Vets Newsletter @below

http://app.icontact.com/icp/mmail-mprofi...67&c=407880

Please select one of these options to update your subscriptions:
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I sure wish the VA would hurry up with my rating, im still waiting after 8 months.

Texas Heat, get ready to wait some more. They will comeback and low ball your rating then you will have to file an appeal and wait another year. Good Luck and keep fighting. I hate the VA more than I hate Al Queada and I really hate Al Queada!

FY 2013 Budget Highlights

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpCEN8K1Gpk

Not trying to play tommy-topper but I'm entering month 34 of waiting! Good luck and hope you get what you deserve, brother.

PM Sent

Finally got my rating! 60% so I'm happy.

I'm retired DV at 50% and have found nothing in Texas that I am eligible for. No DV plates, no discount on hunting license...I can get 10% off at Lowes.

You get a good discount on your homeowners taxes but regretably you have to be 60% or more for the DV Plates and the Hunting License

The property tax exemption is not 100% I don't think. I think they just deduct 12,000 off the appraised value so you do not have to pay taxes on 12,000 of the total value but you still have to pay on the rest. Correct me if I am wrong.

Your right. If your 100% then the exemption is 100%

Here is a sight that can help with employment rehabilitation such as training, education, job placement, and grants. It's a pretty good site if you are looking for a job or ways to get a better one or even going into business for yourself.
http://www.vba.gov./bln/vre/index.htm.

On the above message I got the link wrong its
http://www.vba.gov./bln/vre/

Ok so you will have to type it in sorry I thought it would create a link.

Meet the 40 Senators Who Betrayed Veterans By Killing $1 Billion in Jobs and went home for 2 month vacation before election

Does anybody know or heard of a higher rate of pay over the 100% rate if you have an accumulation of 150% or more?

Not for a 150% but based on each cause,and loss of limb arm or foot SCM's I think they are called, not real sure that's the name but you can look it up.

Only thing I have heard is if it was combat related but I could be wrong

There is no higher rate than 100% from disability alone. My disabilities total 180% but with their lovely math I'm rated at 90%. I am both appealing my decision and applying for Individual Unemplyability. I really hope the CRSC is all its cracked up to be, as I applied for that too.

Also, earlier in this thread someone posted you could park in handicap spaces with DV plates. I got my DV plates Friday and asked the people helping me and they stated that was a common misconception. You must have the handicap placard or ISA symbol. Thankfully, I have it.

Inky Doc your right there is no rating higher then 100%,but they do have SMC or SCM's for lose of limb or eye, I have losted two limbs so I'm kinda up on some of it,my rating would be over 200% if they had higher ratings,good luck with your broad IU is used a lot in place of 100% P&T,when you reach 1oo% they will cut out the IU but you can still file for SSDI

Good luck

Grey when I asked them about parking with the DV Plates in a Handicapped area, they said yes but I still dont do it though. I leave that for those who really need it. Thank the Lord, I am still able to walk good. Team Hillbilly thank you for your service. Oh Inky Doc, I havent forgotten to send you the cane, just got to get over there to send it. Email me your mailing address again to huntingwithsoldiers@live.com and I will try and get it out to you.

A good source for Veteran information.


http://themilitarywallet.com/

Hey jeh7mmag, Just read an article today in which Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer NY is fighting an Ammendment proposed by Republican Tom Cochran OK, which would make a VA counselor get a judge to declare a veteran unable to buy or posses a firearm instead of just taking their word for it when they call the FBI and put you on the no gun list, which they can now thanks to the NDAA.
If you have a mild brain injury which causes some memory loss from an IED you have lost your right to hunt also.

That should give all veterans pause before they tell the VA about anything in their home, which they do ask about so they can offer you a "free Safety lock". That should really get vets to open up since you can lose your Constitutional rights if you do.....

Maybe if some of these Senators you apparently support would stop putting little things in these bills which strip away Constitutional rights, less R's would vote againt the Bills which appear good for vets on the surface. It is never the cover of the book that's the problem, it is what's inside. Vet Bill sounds great! Vet bill which allows a camp counselor to tear up the constitution....not so much.

Maybe the R's should vote for them all so they can see what's inside? LOL

Bet you can't watch the whole thing with out shedding a tear.

I do not want anything dreamed up by the U.N. which is a failed impotent socialist organization to put it lightly. We Live in a country where disabled persons are respected. As Americans we go out of our way to help the disabled.

I guess as a sportsman you support the U.N. small arms treaty also? Do you also support the Billions in taxes the U.N. wants us to pay to combat "climate change"? The U.N. can't stop the violence in Syria which is one of it's few actual jobs but this you support?

I suppose you hate "semi automatic" shotguns as well. The U.N. does.

This should not be a political thread but no Republican ever called me a terrorist but John Kerry sure did. No republican ever called the Marines at Haditha murderers without proof but John Murtha sure did. No Republican ever labeled me and all other returning vets a possible threat to the Nations security but the head Health and Human services Katherine Sebilius sure did.

Let's keep this about disabled vets and not about politics as we all have opinions.

Why is it the Texas VA system seems to be the worst in the country? Waco has the longest wait times of any VA office in the country. Avg. is 330 days. The Dallas VA is rated as one of the worst in the country and as someone who goes there I can see why.

Anyone else have problems at the Dallas VA? If one person complains....no one listens. If we all complain....they have no choice. Maybe we could get something going? I find the staff rude and getting timely appointments difficult for starters.

VA Seeks to Expand TBI Benefits


December 7, 2012


Proposes Adding 5 Diagnosable Illnesses Secondary to Service-Connected TBI

WASHINGTON– The Department of Veterans Affairs is publishing a proposed regulation in the Federal Register that would change its rules to add five diagnosable illnesses which are secondary to service-connected Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

“We must always decide Veterans’ disability claims based on the best science available, and we will,” Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki said. “Veterans who endure health problems deserve timely decisions based on solid evidence that ensure they receive benefits earned through their service to the country.”

VA proposes to add a new subsection to its adjudication regulation by revising 38 CFR 3.310 to state that if a Veteran who has a service-connected TBI also has one of the five illnesses, then the illness will be considered service connected as secondary to the TBI.

Service connection under the proposed rule depends in part upon the severity of the TBI (mild, moderate, or severe) and the period of time between the injury and onset of the secondary illness. However, the proposed rule also clarifies that it does not preclude a Veteran from establishing direct service connection even if those time and severity standards are not met. It also defines the terms mild, moderate, and severe, consistent with Department of Defense (DoD) guidelines.

Comments on the proposed rule will be accepted over the next 60 days. A final regulation will be published after consideration of all comments received.

VA’s decision is based on a report by the National Academy of Sciences, Institute of Medicine (IOM), “Gulf War and Health, Volume 7: Long-Term Consequences of TBI.” In its report, the IOM's Committee on Gulf War and Health concluded that "sufficient evidence of a causal relationship" - the IOM's highest evidentiary standard - existed between moderate or severe levels of TBI and diagnosed unprovoked seizures. The IOM found "sufficient evidence of an association" between moderate or severe levels of TBI and Parkinsonism; dementias (which VA understands to include presenile dementia of the Alzheimer type and post-traumatic dementia); depression (which also was associated with mild TBI); and diseases of hormone deficiency that may result from hypothalamo-pituitary changes.

Specific information about the Defense and Veteran Brain Injury Center is available at http://www.dvbic.org/. Information about Gulf War and VA's services and programs are available at: http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/gulfwar/hazardous_exposures.asp.

Veterans Benefits Shouldn’t Be Compromised by Deficit Reduction

I go to the Temple VA. I can walk in and in two to three days, see my primary care. Ive had over 150K spent on me over the course of two years.

I have no cost medical care for the rest of my life. I live with someone that doesn't. If youre complaining about the VA...your a serious tard.


All you have to do is wait for care. And want to run a mob to the doors of the VA. LOL...really?



The VA is one of the finest health care systems in the state of Texas.

Grasshopper, are you being serious or are you being sarcastic? I'm not trying to start a fight but if your experience with the VA has been positive you are certainly in the minority. Surely, you're aware that there are people, many people, still waiting on a VA rating determination for over ten years. Although its no one specific person's fault the entire VA system needs an overhaul and they certainly need way more people to make disability determinations. I think 90 days is an acceptable wait time but most everyone I know waits at least a year. And I'm sad to report that there are quit a few people I know still waiting. I do applaud you for giving compliments where you think they are deserved but if you think you're experiences are the norm or typical, that's just not the case.

10 Years!!! Must be for something that there is No Documentation On.

I have been in the VA System for 21 years there has been some Hick Ups with appointments, But I have to say everything has been pretty smooth. YES Determinations DO take way longer than one would think.

I just got MedSepd after 10 years in. Approved my rating before I went on terminal then to find out the day after my EAS the claim as closed and disapproved. Now a new claim is put in and I didn't submit it. I'm glad I wasnt trying to live off that money b/c now they're saying June for my "Letter" to come in.

Ahhhh VA

A. I go to the Dallas VA. Rated worst in the country. Wow you can walk in and see your primary care in 3 days. That's good? Helps alot when you have the Flu. My wait is 2 to 3 weeks to see my primary care. If you have the Flu they say go to Dallas VA ER.

Avg ER wait time at Dallas VA ER is 12 to 15 hours if not bleeding.

The VA is the Best in TX? You must be a tard if you Think that. Avg ER wait time in Denton Private hospital???? 35 to 40 minutes. Guess you and Websters have a different definition of "Good".

If you want a doc who went to Sri Lanka Med school and can speak some english then the Dallas VA is the best care for you.

Anybody who thinks the VA is the best care available in TX with under paid and over worked docs, along with the mantra of give them pills and pass them along to the next doc, AKA the "VA shuffle", needs to have their head space and timing checked.

I had to self diagnose ruptured/torn disk after 6 years of complaing of extreme pain and demand an MRI after someone told me that was an option and after waiting 8 months to get said MRI then waiting another 2 months to get to an Ortho. Best in TX! I was told by them I had Fybromyalga....LOL. Quality care....Yet I am the tard. "I can walk in an see a doc in 2 or 3 days", LOL. Quality......

The VA should be disbanded IMO and we should be given a quality private Insurance policy provided at current rates. When I call my kids doc (private Ins) at 8 a.m. and they give me an appointment in 2 hrs (during flu epidemic) I would say "3 days" or for me 3 weeks is un satisfactory by all medical standards. Just because it's "free" does not mean it has to be bad. BTW it's not "free" you paid a price for it.

TF Panther- your last sentence says it all!!!

I am in the Medical Evaluation Board now and going through the IDES (Integrated Disability Evaluation System) and will see how the VA Treats me before making a commment. Hopefully, they provide all that I have earned (no more, no less).

I pray that all my fellow Veterans get treated with the best of care and with dignity/respect.

Rex

Ranger, my advice to you is don't play fair and expect the VA to play fair. Because they won't.

I have been using the VA since 1969, I have not had any major problems with them in all of that time. I have received top notch medical every time I have used them and have been treated the same as if I had went to my own Doctor. Actually I have waited longer in my private Doctor's waiting room than I have in the VA waiting room. The VA isn't perfect, but I am thankful for what they have done for me.


With claims things take time, they have to reviewed every way but loose, and then are reviewed again and even "loose" is reviewed. The VA offices in Texas are understaffed and over worked, the money they pay for the professionals in the medical field is a joke compared to what the same Doctor can make in the private sector. In the private sector they don't have to put up with the bureaucratic bull shirt or the complaining of the patients.

Dog Cathcer. The problem lies with the Big VA's. If you are going to the Ablilene VA availibility is not an issue due to a low patient population. Dallas on the other hand has high patient demand therefore we recieve rationed care. Chiropractor will see you every 90 days.

Physical therapy consist of, this is how you do the exercises. Now go home and do them and we will see you in 90 days here are some more pain killers. "Oh the exercises did not work? Hmmmm go home and do them again and we will see you in 90 days".

"While we realize your disc are ruptured and torn through out your spine, you are not a candidate for surgery....you need to learn to live with pain".

I left the Navy in May of last year and submitted my claim in November of 2011 per their new Early Enrollment Program. I still do not have a rating. I have two that are pending and both past their prescribed dates. I knew it would be slow but wow. I was in military medical my who career and never have I had an experience waiting like this. Its actually quite sad.

From one Doc to another.... get use to it, brother. It sucks.

Good luck.

Proceed with caution for those not reading the Gun Legislation thread.

http://freedomoutpost.com/2013/02/combat-veterans-with-ptsd-or-tbi-losing-the-right-to-bear-arms/

FYI...in 1997 President Billy Clinton issued his Executive Order requiring the VA to provide all records of Veterans with any mental health issues to the FBI/BATF. At the time, that EO affected over 80,000 veterans from all wars!

This is nothing news....and for once, it is not something Obama did. This information is still being sent to the FBI/BATF and is not reviewed until a veteran attempts to purchase a firearm. Then at that time, the veteran's medical file is reviewed and the decision is made to delay or deny the purchase. If delayed, the FBI will review the current records and make an evaluation based upon the medical records indicating the mental status of the veteran then to allow the purchase or deny it.

http://washingtonexaminer.com/watchdog-b...article/2522655

Finally some Bi partisan agreement.

Also Bill Clinton may have started it but it appears BO is going on the offense with it. Since the National debate has recently begun and the letters have also, I am forced to not believe it is mere coincidence.

FTC

Watch out Vets/brothers. Now Feinstein (Democrat) says all Vets are mentally ill and PTSD is a phenomenon of the Iraq War. My God this is unforgivable. There is a CSPAN link included within this one so you can watch her say it.

http://www.infowars.com/feinstein-all-ve...wning-firearms/

This really worries me. I am a 100% Service Connected Disabled Veteran. I run the Hunting with Soldiers program so if they did that, it would screw me up in many ways.

Saw this on the Iraq and Afghan Vets of America's website. Shameful.

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/20...nder-obama.html

I read it. The main problem is that they're literally swamped. Lot's of Soldiers returning from Iraq and such. Go to the comments at the bottom of article and read what Onebadstud has to say. Sounds like a very smart fellow. Government isn't ALL bad.

Obama's golf outing with Tiger woods cost the US taxpayer 3 million. Michelle spent 11 million on Vacations in 2011. How many VA claims reps could have been hired with that money? Gee, Looks like a failure in leadership and priorities to me.

Veterans who can't work are living in horrible conditions and committing suicide at alarming rates because of it. Their families are suffering, while the WH plays Marie Antoinette "let them eat cake".

Indeed, sir!

Bills Aim to Help Universities Fund Veteran Program

Kudos to WWP, Geico, and U-Haul


GEICO and U-HAUL Help Injured Warriors Heal


Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) is excited to be kicking off the 2013 Soldier Ride® season. GEICO is the national sponsor, supporting through gift-in-kind as well as monetarily to help fuel the WWP Physical Health & Wellness program that helps injured warriors heal. WWP is also grateful for our relationship with U-HAUL, the founding partner of Soldier Ride, donating millions of dollars in gift-in-kind, including wrapping approximately 600 trucks that travel the country with WWP graphics, acting as an exceptional awareness piece. With the support of these two great organizations and their employees, we are looking forward to a successful 2013 season and continuing to honor and empower Wounded Warriors


http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/?sm...fDB8OTA5Njc4Ng2


https://support.woundedwarriorproject.or...fDB8OTA5Njc4Ng2

The only upside to being on the waiting list for 36mths is that when you do get your rating, no matter how big or small, they (USED TO correct me if im wrong) back date and back pay the amount from the day the claim was started. When i filed for my claim, it took 8mth to get my rating of 60% and i received 7mth back pay @ $1100 and a couple days later received my first monthly payment.
The nightmares and isolation has gotten worse in the past 3yrs and when i went to ALL my intial c&p appr, the tbi doc said i had ptsd, the ptsd doc said i had tbi, but neither 1 of them would put anything on paper as to the fact. My wife finaly got worried enough after several pillows were shot, chewed and ripped apart, and called and dpoke with a prsd counsler, who made a most ricky tick appt, got me in and properly diagnosed with ptsd and did all the paperwork filing for my new c&p claim. I am worried bout the whole "ptsd, u must be crazy" epedimic and me being classified a threat and black listed from future gun purchases.

The gov keeps widdling away at our rights till there wont be any left and then there wont be enough armes citizens to stand up to this tyranted gov.

First lady urges CEOs to hire more veterans

America’s men and women in uniform – many of whom have risked their lives in service to their country – are now being stripped of once-guaranteed college benefits as the Obama administration seeks to ensure citizens feel the pain of its loss in the sequester battle.

It’s just the latest move in a series of Obama administration actions that have chipped away at the U.S. military’s size, strength and benefits structure – and drastically changed the face of the most powerful fighting force in the world.

The U.S. Army, Air Force and Marine Corps have now halted their tuition assistance programs after across-the-board federal spending cuts went into effect March 1. The suspension applies to all components, including Reserve and National Guard personnel on active-duty orders. The U.S. Navy is also expected to deliver a similar announcement soon. The cuts do not affect G.I. Bill benefits.

According to new reports, any new applications for tuition assistance will be rejected by the Air Force. The branch’s application site states, “Air Force Military Tuition Assistance Currently not Available.”

The Air Force is also limiting its career training at its Non-Commissioned Officer Academy and Squadron Officer School – which means commanders will be forced to limit the number of airmen attending the training

Read more at http://www.wnd.com/2013/03/obama-declares-war-on-u-s-military/#TkQwVLG1d0DXvTA5.99

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WorldNetDaily
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Farah
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerome_Corsi

LOL, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:BIAS

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WorldNetDaily
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Farah
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerome_Corsi

From last year but still relevant since he now wants to cut educational benefits as reported by everyone.

http://www.examiner.com/article/obama-to...t-union-workers

Sorry but I meant to edit my last post and accidently edited you post #4121721

LOL, no problem.

again
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/...obody-made-the/

Again.

http://oregoncatalyst.com/7461-study-finds-significant-pro-democrat-politifact-bias.html

This is from the Media Research Center. Kind of sums it up.

http://archive.mrc.org/biasbasics/biasbasics.asp

http://askville.amazon.com/trust-information-politifact-unbiased/AnswerViewer.do?requestId=18932814

http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal/2011_12/politifact_ought_to_be_ashamed034211.php

Here is a news video on VA Claims problems.

http://www.nbcnews.com/id/3036789/ns/msnbc-morning_joe/vp/51330477#51330477

It really sucks reading and hearing about all the issues Vets have had and are having with the VA. I was discharged in 2009 by a Doc at Fort Polk. This is after I was Medi Vac from Iraq a few months before with PTSD symptoms. Well the Aemy Discharged me with a honorable discharge but with a personality disorder. It says it on my DD214, and they also withheld my last two months pay saying I owed for back bonus money that I now had to repay. Well after I contacted my local congressman and a year of waiting the DOD sent me a check for the money they withheld. I ended up getting 50% rating from the VA for numerous minor injuries. It took 5 months. I started going to the local VA for therapy and they had me send in a claim for PTSD..It took 18 months and they ended up giving me 50% for that also, so I now get a combined 80%. My issue I'm having is finding a job with "Personality Disorder" on my DD214..I was in Law Enforcement before the ARmy, during the ARmy and went to the police Academy after the army. But no one will hire me with a so called Personality Disorder on my DD214..

Man that stinks MP/HOG. Is there any way to apeal the Discharge to have that taken off? By the way, I will have a booth on the second weekend in June for my Hunting with Soldiers program at the gun show in Lufkin, stop by and visit.

Thanks father/ I contacted my congressman again and I sent in a appeal to a Army review board but not sure how that will go. Just makes me sick cause I've been told by allot of Vets and even VA Docs that the ARmy was discharging soldiers with personality disorders instead OF PTSD to save money.
I'll be there at the gun show, didn't know anything about it but I've been looking for a local show to attend, take my boys..

Good deal. Just look for the big Hunting with Soldiers banner and I will be there. Look forward to meeting you.

Mp/hog.... You need to file a claim for tdiu.

What is TDIU Nathan?

Hope it helps.

http://www.2spencers.com/veterans-disability-blog/2010/10/07/tdiu/

http://www.jimstrickland912.com/TDIU.html

mrmo,

Thanks for the links and good info. Appreciate it.

Rex

Military Matters










April 29, 2013
Military Matters

Senate Bill 162 - Unemployment is a big problem among our veterans. Too often, our heroes fight for us abroad and then have to fight for a job back home. SB 162 will help that situation. In professions that require licensing by the state, SB 162 will create an expedited process to get those licenses for veterans and their spouses who have obtained substantially similar skills in other jurisdictions, such as the military or other states. Those receiving the expedited licenses would then have a year to come into compliance with Texas requirements for the license. This law is effective immediately.

click

Administration Looking to cut military benefits.


http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2013/05/30/hagel-may-cut-benefits-for-veterans

yep I'm in the minority again with just over 40 years of VA care, things get messed up sometimes but they do the best they can with what they have to work with One of their biggest problems are vet "No-Shows", when a appointment is made keep it or at least call them, a "No Show" takes up time another vet could use

The IRS sent 4.2 Billion dollars back to "illegal immigrant workers" in refunds who claimed kids living on the wrong side of the border as dependents and the VA has to "make do". Yet we can't figure out why the VA is under funded and overwhelmed..........I have 4.2 billion ideas of why it's under funded and that's just for starters. Maybe the 50 Million the IRS spent on conventions would have helped the VA "make do" a little better.

how about the 40 billion we are spending on removing Agent Orange this just started a couple months back

Did not see that? We are going back to Vietnam and doing soil removal?

yep boots on the ground this month wish I could find the link, maybe while removing the air strap they might fine a few of the MIA's?? So them boys can finally come home !!!!!!
No damn way I'd go back, don't care what they are paying

Hillbilly, you and every other patriot that went to that Godforsaken place have my undying respect. I hated my time in Iraq but I'm glad it wasn't that jungle. May you always be blessed.

Good info. Will be passing this along to my father.

I THINK I saw a post on here about a website that I can go to for funding for a business and now I can't find it. Can someone please PM me that information? Thanks

I am 70% for PTSD and 60% for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The only way you can draw more is with aid and attendance CRSC (for combat vets) ect. You will just be paid at the 100% rate, I'm very sire of this.

I got the DV plates at the 50 percent level. 3.00 for the first vehicle regular rates after that but still get free parking.

Well, I received my final ratings today and they took care of me. 100% VA and 90% Army with PDRL.

I should be Retired in the next 4-5 months. After a twenty-two year Career, I will miss it. But, thanks to some outstanding non-profits, I am planning to continue being of Service to fellow Combat Vets. Service doesn't have to end with a DD-214 as my Ranger Buddy says.

I am very thankful for the Army and in the end, can leave out knowing I gave it all and was treated fairly and taken care of for my combat and training injuries. I will greatly miss my Ranger and Battle Buddies - but, know that I will be able to stay around them and have the camaraderie/fellowship through the outdoor adventures that I assist in planning and executing.

I hope and pray that others are taken care of and that the system works the way it should for all Wounded/Injured/Ill Service Members and Veterans. If anyone ever needs any assistance, I am happy to help. I may not know all there is to know, but I can link you in to some outstanding folks that are ready to help. Feel free to PM me any time.

God Bless all my fellow Warrior-Spartans!

Rex

Thanks to all those who have posted on this thread as it is really helping me get my head straight on taking on the VA. Been waiting months for a specialist appointment, last week VA called and said I was authorized outside doc but could be more than 2 months. Can't wait anymore and keeping my VA appt. on July 2nd. They just wanted to shuffle the deck chairs..... and show they did something.

Can you set up your own Appointment with S&W and not go through the V.A. Appointment desk?

No, This is a "limited time offer" I would have to give up my July 2nd VA appt for S&W to be scheduled in est. 2 months. Since I have been waiting so long and need some resolve, I have to go with bird-in-the-hand. This for a neuro sugeron specialist. My Dr. last year that got the test started quit... DR. Nye and left me for months without a doc and now I have Dr. Fong.

You have to have a 60% rating to get any Texas benefits. If you are 50% you have to be missing a limb or blind in one or both eyes.

I'm a disabled veteran in Corpus Christi looking for a hunting buddy. Send me a message!

I'm 100% diabled Veteran and I just got a toll bill. I have the DV plates and my rating letter. They sent me a bill for $33.00

Yall might know already but I thought I would share anyways.

If you are 30% disabled or more you can get a tx vet loan for home mortgage. 30 year fixed rate was 2.8%!!!!! You also get a break on property taxes.

Parking was free at Trinity Mother Francis hospital in Tyler with my DV plates.

Not all toll authorities have no charges for DAV plates. Austin is one of them, so we outskirt that one. The ones that we have been on in the DFW area we have not gotten any toll charges.

Yup I thought all tolls were free in Texas for Disabled Vets....well I now owe 3, 500 in toll bills, 183A is not free. However 45 tollway is free, the northern portion of 130 is free, the southern portion is not free. God only knows about the new tolls (290, 71, mopac). solution, move the hell out of Austin.

according to their website if it takes the textag here in Austin it should b free

my appeal took over 3 years then suddenly last week I got a phone call asking if I would settle for said amount. I said yes because I don't want to wait another 3 years!

But the closing costs and the zero down are the most expensive of ALL the three major loan types.

It is not a benefit to the veterans.

Not sure how your math works but paying higher interest rates every month for 30 years will be more than closing costs.

One half percentage point is discounted off the VA rate if you are an eligible veteran currently living in Texas and have at least a 30% rating. This only applies to purchase and not refinancing.

I would consider this a benefit as only eligible veterans qualify and not everyday citizens.

Fair point but keep in mind that the average person is only in a home for 5-7 years. It would be something you would want to run the math on. You can also use a Texas Vet Loan on any loan type as well, not just a VA. That is what most people forget.

Free hunting and fishing for NON resident DV with over 60% rating also. Not just residents.

A New Way to File

Standard forms and online tools make it quick, easy, and convenient for you to state which benefits you’re seeking and submit the information required to process your claim or appeal.


Filing Online

When filing a claim for compensation, the fastest and easiest way to file is electronically through eBenefits. To begin a claim, click the button below:

eBenefits

Other Ways to File

If you choose not to file a claim electronically, you must complete the proper paper form and mail it to VA in order to submit your claim. Download the forms that you need:

•If you are a Veteran filing for compensation, you must now use VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits.

Download Now


•If you are a wartime Veteran filing for a needs-based pension, you must use VA Form VA Form 21-527EZ, Application for Pension.

Download Now


•If you are the survivor of a Veteran filing for dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC), survivors’ pension, and/or accrued benefits, use VA Form 21-534EZ, Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits.

Download Now


http://explore.va.gov/file-claim

Filing online is the only way to go. You can scan your supporting paperwork in also. And you get a quick acknowledgement that it was received. I have helped 2 friends get 100% disability in the last year and 1/2 and I found the most important thing you can do is file a FDC (fully developed claim). Both individuals I helped were completed in 9 months or less. It essentially means that you provide all supporting evidence up front including a VA form that is to be signed by your doctor.

This is the letter I got when asking about the tolls in NTTA.

Randy


Dear Customer,

Thank you for contacting the NTTA. Yes you do need a TollTag. The NTTA greatly appreciates the service of the millions of honorable men and woman who have served our country in the armed forces, and we are grateful for the sacrifices they and their loved ones have made. The 81st Texas Legislature passed HB 3139, which allows for the creation of a veterans toll discount program by a local toll authority; however, no funds were appropriated for such a program. Currently, NTTA does not offer discounted toll programs, but our staff is evaluating the legislation to determine the financial, legal and operational impacts of implementing a veteran toll discount program. If the Board of Directors chooses to implement a discount program for veterans, staff will advise the appropriate TollTag customers, veterans groups and other military organizations.

If you have one of the following types of license plate, your parking is free at DFW and Love Field Airports; however, you will need to enter the airport through a Public only lane and not a TollTag lane and take a ticket,

Medal of Honor
Purple Heart
P.O.W.
Pearl Harbor Survivor
Disabled Veteran

If we can be of further assistance, please let us know. We appreciate your business.


NTTA Customer Service Center

Just read where Cabela's is offering a 5% discount.

Went to two VA quacks with bad stomach and groin pains, both gave me antiacid pills. Finally went to real private doctor and had hernia operation. This is one of several problems with VA medical people. When will our govt do something about this????

Are there programs for disabled kids/young adults anywhere near Kerr County? I have 2 sons who are disabled and we have a hard time finding anywhere to take them out hunting.

"VSO and your Rating"

More Illnesses Will Qualify Due To Definition Change for "Compensation"

Revisions to 38 C.F.R. § 3.317 to clarify the Meaning of "Medically Unexplained Chronic Multisystem Illness" Related to Gulf War and Southwest Asia Service is being implemented.

This notice provides information on a regulatory change being developed by VA to clarify the meaning of a diagnosed “medically unexplained chronic multisymptom illness” for disability claims based on Gulf War and Southwest Asia service.

Glad that it's not taking as long as it did to recognize exposure to Agent Orange for Vietnam vets. Recognizing and funding care are two completely different animals, though.

Are you one of these 133,000 vets who may qualify for a tax refund windfall? Don't wait to file your


By: Karen Jowers   
If you’re one of the more than 133,000 veterans who received a notice last July that you might be eligible for refunds of federal taxes you paid on disability severance pay, take heed and do it before summer. By law, you have a year to file an amended return with the Internal Revenue Service to get the refund, said Army Lt. Col. David Dulaney, executive director of the Armed Forces Tax Council. If you need help in filing for the refund, seek help from a tax professional, he said. Dulaney said defense officials do not receive information from the Internal Revenue Service about the number of veterans who have already filed for the tax refunds, because of privacy laws.

These refunds are the result of a law passed in 2016, the Combat Veterans Tax Fairness Act, which went into effect in 2017. It applies to veterans who received disability severance pay dating back to Jan. 17, 1991, with taxes withheld, and who also qualified for disability from the Veterans Affairs Department. Any service member who suffers a combat-related injury and is separated from the military receives a one-time, lump-sum disability severance payment based on their rank and years of service. The payment is not supposed to be taxed in certain situations, but DoD routinely took taxes out of the severance pay, according to advocacy groups.
(more)

https://www.militarytimes.com/pay-b...d-windfall-dont-wait-to-file-your-claim/

I see that Cornyn isn’t much of a friend to veterans. That guy is only good as a place holder to keep a Dem out of the Senate..