BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—In a recent podcast episode, Randy Bigley welcomed Mike Amsbaugh from Crawford County Veteran Services to discuss the intricacies of veteran disability claims. The conversation provided valuable insights into how veterans can navigate the process of obtaining disability benefits, whether through presumptive service connection or direct service connection.

Presumptive Service Connection

Mike explained that presumptive service connection is a process where the VA automatically assumes that certain disabilities are related to a veteran’s service based on specific criteria, such as where and when they served. This means that if a veteran develops a condition on the VA’s list of presumptive disabilities, it is automatically considered service-connected. The main task then is to determine the severity of the disability and assign a percentage rating.

Direct Service Connection

For conditions not on the presumptive list, veterans can still establish a service connection through direct service connection. This involves demonstrating that the disability is directly related to their service. Veterans need to provide medical evidence, including a doctor’s opinion linking the condition to their service, and may also reference medical studies or research to support their claim.

The Role of Veteran Service Officers

Mike emphasized the importance of consulting with a veteran service officer (VSO) when filing a claim. VSOs can guide veterans through the process, helping them understand what is needed to build a strong case. Every county in Ohio has a veteran service office staffed with professionals like Mike, making it easier for veterans to access the support they need.

Encouragement to Ask Questions

Throughout the discussion, Mike encouraged veterans to ask questions and seek assistance from their local VSO. He stressed that there are no bad questions and that seeking help can make a significant difference in the outcome of a claim. Even if a claim is initially denied, there may be opportunities to appeal and provide additional evidence to support the case.

Contact Information

For veterans in Crawford County, Mike provided the contact details for their office: 419-562-7761. The office is located in the lower level of the administrative building at the courthouse, 112 E. St, Bucyrus, OH. The office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding national holidays.

Final Thoughts

Mike’s insights highlight the importance of understanding the different pathways to establishing a service connection for disabilities and the valuable role that veteran service officers play in this process. Veterans are encouraged to reach out, ask questions, and utilize the resources available to them to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve.