Wow! What a busy start to the new year. Here we are, mid-way through February, I’m just now getting back to my blog. Sorry for the absence.
When I look back at the end of 2012, as of December 31, the VA had a backlog of over 900,0000 compensation and pension claims. Keeping in minds the VA’s goal is to process claims within 125 days, they had a surprisingly high number of claims exceeding their performance goal. There were over 600,000 claims that are sitting there longer than 125 days. Approximately 68% of the claims are delayed beyond 125 days. Based on that, veterans and their family members should not expect to have claim processed quickly.
As of February 11, 2013, the number of pending compensation and pensions claims has reduced. The number pending is down to jus under 900,000; down to 899,242. Of that, over 70% have exceed the processing performance goal.
In addition to the backlog of claims, the number of appeals remains steady at around 250,000.
From my point of view, it seems the VA is processing claims at the same rate as the claims arrive. With the anticipated draw down in the military, I would expect the backlog to exceed the 1,000,000 mark during this calendar year.
Now for what I’m needing. I’m planning a presentation to the VA. I know what I would like changed. But what do you want changed? I’m trying to get as many veterans and family members as possible. To the VA, numbers are important. I will not use any names! I need experiences. What have you experienced in dealing with the VA? Please address the following:
1. What would you change? Please share your personal experience. Locations, names of VA personnel involved, and specific issue would helpful.
2. How would you change or correct your issue? Let’s face it. Those in charge do not have all the answers. If they did, the system wouldn’t be in the condition it is today.
Please share this site with as many as possible. The larger numbers I have, the better I will be heard.
