First, our claims are not processed in a timely manner. It currently takes anywhere between two and five years to complete a successful claim. In extreme cases it takes even longer while in a very few, simple cases it takes less time.

Second, during the process, our claim is all too often denied and we're forced to appeal the denial. We feel the VA delays and denies our claims in hopes we will die. Frequently, a veteran simply gives up but those who persevere eventually receive a deserved rating. We ask, if after many appeals the VA eventually grants a veteran the rating, why not skip the lengthy process and give us our due justice at the first attempt?

Third, nobody receiving compensation for various disabilities such as hearing loss, heart disease, diabetes or PTSD can understand the VA's math. Simply put, the percentages do not add up. According to VA math, a 60% rating for PTSD and a 30% rating for an agent orange related disease curiously adds up to a total 70% rating. Can we get a simplified model that is both credible and comprehensible?

There are other issues with the claims process but gaining fair solutions to these will be a great help toward reducing our frustration with this process.

Thank you.