Navigating the VA disability system can be one of the most challenging parts of life after military service. From strict filing requirements to complex regulations, even the most valid claims can face delays or denials. At Tyler & Maderer in Houston, we fight for the rights of veterans, making sure your service and sacrifice are honored with the benefits you’ve earned.
VA disability compensation provides tax-free monthly payments to eligible veterans with physical or mental health conditions caused or aggravated by military service. Qualifying conditions may include physical injuries, chronic illnesses, and service-connected mental health conditions.
Filing a VA disability claim requires detailed documentation and evidence connecting your condition to your military service. Tyler & Maderer helps Houston veterans understand the claims process, gather the necessary information, and address challenges that may affect their benefits.
Pursuing VA disability benefits can involve several stages, from submitting an initial claim to reviewing a decision and determining whether further action is appropriate. Understanding the process can help veterans prepare supporting evidence and identify important deadlines.
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Submit medical records, service records, and evidence supporting the connection between your disability and military service.
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The VA reviews your claim, may schedule a C&P examination, and issues a decision regarding benefits and disability ratings.
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If you disagree with a decision, consider a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal.
The appropriate steps depend on your claim, the VA’s decision, and the evidence available. Not every claim requires an appeal, and legal assistance may be helpful at different stages of the process.
If you disagree with a VA disability decision, the appropriate review option depends on the circumstances of your claim.
Supplemental Claim: Allows you to submit or identify new and relevant evidence that was not previously considered.
Higher-Level Review: Requests a new review of your decision by a senior VA reviewer, generally without submitting new evidence.
Board Appeal: Allows you to request review by a Veterans Law Judge at the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.
For most VA disability compensation decisions, veterans generally have one year from the decision letter to request a Higher-Level Review or Board Appeal. A Supplemental Claim may be filed later, but filing within one year can be important for preserving the effective date of benefits. Reviewing your VA decision letter and understanding the applicable deadlines can help you determine the appropriate next steps.
Legal assistance may include reviewing VA decisions, identifying supporting evidence, and preparing documents for the applicable review process.
Receive guidance about important deadlines, evidence requirements, and next steps as your claim or appeal progresses.
Need Help With a VA Disability Claim or Appeal?
At Tyler & Maderer, PLLC, we understand the challenges veterans face when navigating VA disability claims, denied benefits, and appeals. Our firm provides personalized legal guidance to veterans throughout the Houston area.
Attorney Gigit Tyler is licensed to practice law in Texas and Oklahoma and is admitted to the U.S. District Courts for the Southern District of Texas and Western District of Oklahoma. She has a background in Social Security Disability law and is dedicated to helping clients navigate complex legal matters.
As a VA-accredited attorney, Gigit helps veterans understand their legal options, review supporting documentation, and navigate the VA disability claims and appeals process. She prioritizes clear communication and individualized attention throughout each case.
VA-Accredited Attorney • Licensed in Texas and Oklahoma
If your VA disability claim is denied or you disagree with your assigned rating, you may have several review options. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a Supplemental Claim, request a Higher-Level Review, or appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. Each option has different evidence requirements and deadlines, so reviewing your decision letter promptly is important.
Attorney fees for VA disability matters depend on the type of representation and the stage of your claim. VA-accredited attorneys may charge fees for qualifying representation after an initial VA decision, subject to applicable rules. Contact Tyler & Maderer to discuss the firm’s fee arrangements for your specific matter.
Yes. Veterans can apply for VA disability benefits even years after leaving the military. However, you generally need evidence showing that your condition is connected to your military service. Medical records, service records, and other supporting documentation can help strengthen your claim.
Yes, veterans who are receiving benefits based on a traditional disability (or schedular) rating can typically work without it affecting their compensation.
Ratings are based on the severity of your condition and how it impacts your ability to work and perform daily activities.
You can request a review to have your disability rating increased if your condition has deteriorated.
If your VA disability claim has been denied, your rating does not reflect your condition, or you need guidance about an appeal, contact Tyler & Maderer to discuss your situation and available options.