Self Help Materials

If you’re doing business with government agencies such as the VA and the Social Security Administration, follow these pointers to simplify the process and improve your chances of success.

What happens at a VA “C and P” examination? How should you prepare for the exam? We explain the process and offer some helpful tips.

We offer an outline for a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional.

We guide you step-by-step through the process of preparing an effective stressor statement for your PTSD claim.

You probably have an idea of how the veteran’s life has been affected by military service. Here’s how to tell the VA what you’ve observed.

We offer a how-to guide that demystifies the process of applying for a military discharge upgrade or a change in the reason for your military discharge.

You can order your records online or by mail. Here’s how.

You left the military with a discharge that was less than fully Honorable. The discharge hasn’t been upgraded. You may still be able to get VA benefits — if the VA makes a favorable Character of Discharge Determination.

What should you do when the VA claims that you’ve been overpaid? Here’s a step-by-step guide.

What should happen to your VA benefits when you’re incarcerated? Nothing — unless you’ve been convicted. We explain the rules.

If you’re facing time in a California jail or prison, there’s a state law that could get you into a treatment program instead.

If you believe you were exposed to Agent Orange, you need to know how the VA decides whether you’re entitled to benefits. We explain the process.

We offer complete instructions for ordering transcripts and investigative records, with sample letters you can use.

There are steps you can take while you’re incarcerated to improve your chances for a discharge upgrade after you’re released.

After you’re discharged, you may want to apply for VA benefits or a discharge upgrade. You’ll need documentation and the time to get it is now — while you’re still in the military. Here’s a comprehensive list of the materials you’ll need.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking of re-enlisting.

You stayed in the service beyond your original ETS date, but you left the military with a discharge that was less than fully Honorable. You may still be able to get most VA benefits — without a discharge upgrade or a Character of Service Determination.