A recent class action lawsuit in federal court could potentially result in the re-evaluation of tens of thousands of disability appeals by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The lawsuit alleges that the VA improperly dismissed around 90,000 disability claims that were being appealed after being denied, and a settlement is currently being discussed. If accepted, these affected veterans could see their cases re-evaluated, potentially giving them another chance at getting benefits
Lawsuit Alleges VA Improperly Dismissed Around 90,000 Disability Appeals
According to the lawsuit, tens of thousands of veterans with disability claims before the VA were improperly dismissed. The suit centers around the VA’s “VACOLS” system, which was meant to help keep track of disability claims and appeals, and ensure applicants were appropriately informed of legal developments and important deadlines. However, in these cases, veterans did not receive appropriate notifications, or their information was not entered in a timely manner, resulting in delays and missing paperwork that led to their appeals being dismissed.
Proposed Settlement to Be Considered By Federal Court
The class action lawsuit involving these cases is being considered by the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims in Washington, DC, next month. As part of that lawsuit, they will be considering a proposed settlement that would result in many of the claims getting re-examined and opened for consideration once more. This, in turn, could allow them to receive benefits they had previously been denied.
The Consequences of Improperly Dismissed Appeals
When veterans lose out on benefits due to their disability appeals being improperly denied, the results can be disastrous for themselves and their families. They may struggle to pay their bills or get the care they need to manage their disability, and may be at increased risk of poverty and homelessness. Additionally, their loved ones may miss out on survivors benefits and other benefits they otherwise should have had access to.
What You Should Do
If your disability claim has been denied, you need dedicated legal assistance to ensure you get the best possible outcome for your appeal. That is why you should speak to the veterans disability lawyers at Sullivan and Kehoe. They can help you review the facts of your case, and ensure you get the outcome you rightly deserve.
The attorneys of Sullivan & Kehoe place a special focus on assisting disabled veterans. Our veterans’ disability lawyers are still available for remote consultation on your legal issues. Call our office at (800) 395-7830 to schedule a consultation in our New York City, Garden City, Kings Park, Riverhead, or White Plains office, or visit our contact page.
