VAP-002 Original Claims

Veterans Access

The SEAL Advocate: Guiding Veterans to their VA Benefits

• SERIES WORKBOOK You will use this extensively during the series. It is the cornerstone of this project and will be a valuable resource where you can compile all of the information necessary to file claims. Be sure to print it out before you start the series!
• VETERANS CRISIS LINE
• VA Veteran Suicide Prevention Resources:
• VA Programs for Homeless Veterans
• VSO Link
• UDT SEAL Donate Link

Today we're going to be talking about the 526 EZ application form. Specifically, Geoff's going to take us through the specifics of how to fill that out, but briefly before I start, I just wanted to let you guys know what each episode is going to cover so that you can make sure you're in the right place.

In the first episode, we covered the background and purpose of the VA and its compensation programs, In today's episode we are covering the 526 EZ application form. Episode three explains how to navigate VA examinations and how to file for additionally qualified programs. In episode four we discuss the specifics about the appeals process, and in episode five we're going to discuss special programs and considerations for reserve veterans, combat veterans, and severely disabled veterans programs.

Specifically, what we're gonna be talking about today is how to apply for disability compensation. But this form can actually be used for many other things. It can be used for compensation under the 1151 program, which is if you get injured at a VA facility, it can be used for automotive and home adaptation equipment and grants. It can be used for temporary total disability. It can be used for special monthly compensation. It can be used for a whole host of VA programs, and we're going to talk about each one of those in the specific episodes. But today we're talking about how to use this 526 EZ form which it's commonly referred to, to apply for VA compensation benefits.

Be sure to grab the workbook from the link above before you get started.

Producer - Dr. Geoff Geness is a former Navy SEAL Officer, and VA Rater, the Director of Outreach and Education and VSO for the U D T C Association, as well as a chiropractic physician and acupuncturist.

Co-Producer - Stacey Whitcomb is podcast host and producer, civilian and acupuncturist who treats individuals recovering from service acquired injuries, illnesses, and trauma in a highly specialized clinic that serves emergency responders.

Artwork - Jeff Higgs produced the original artwork for the Veterans Access Project. He is a former Navy SEAL, Jujitsu instructor and incredible digital artist.

Workbook - MaryAnn Geness compiled and edited the workbook. She is a chiropractic physician and trauma specialist.

Music - "Super Power Cool Dude" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Bass Walker" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Ossuary 7 - Resolve" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/