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Already rated for a respiratory condition like asthma and thinking a new claim for sleep apnea might boost your VA rating? Not so fast. VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer unpacks a little-known VA regulation that could affect your benefits.

In this episode, Ed explains why veterans can’t always receive separate ratings for multiple respiratory conditions like asthma and sleep apnea. You'll learn about the key regulation—38 CFR 4.96(a)—which requires the VA to assign just one rating for the predominant respiratory disability, rather than adding the ratings together. Ed walks you through how the VA determines which condition is “predominant” by looking at the diagnostic codes and specific criteria for asthma and sleep apnea.

He highlights the impact this rule has on your overall compensation and discusses what options you have if you think your situation is unique. If you’re wondering how to maximize your rating or appeal a VA decision under this rule, Ed points out the importance of consulting a qualified representative. This episode is a must-listen for any veteran navigating multiple respiratory service-connected conditions and wanting to understand their rights under current VA law.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4MTL0WmM-k0

Special provisions regarding evaluation of respiratory conditions: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFR14fb86bcc86c2cb/section-4.96

Schedule of ratings—respiratory system: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4/subpart-B/subject-group-ECFR14fb86bcc86c2cb/section-4.97

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims.

Did you know the VA has a list of around 40 chronic diseases that may be presumed connected to your service—even if you never reported symptoms on active duty?

In this episode, VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer walks you through the “chronic disease presumption,” a powerful tool for veterans seeking VA disability benefits. Ed explains which conditions qualify under 38 CFR 3.309(a), how the presumption works if your diagnosis or symptoms appear within one year (or longer for some conditions) after leaving service, and what medical and lay evidence you’ll need to support your claim.

You’ll discover why hearing loss, tinnitus, psychosis, and conditions like bipolar disorder fall under this presumption and learn practical steps for gathering evidence such as buddy statements and private medical opinions. Ed also shares a real-life example of winning a 100% rating for a veteran whose symptoms began after service.

list of chronic conditions: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-3/subpart-A/subject-group-ECFR39056aee4e9ff13/section-3.309

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GO-MqhAH648

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims.

Are you a veteran dealing with fibromyalgia and unsure if the VA rated your condition correctly? VA-accredited attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer explains how fibromyalgia is evaluated and shares tips to help you maximize your benefits.

This episode covers: 💥 The three VA ratings for fibromyalgia—40%, 20%, and 10%—and what each requires 💥 The VA’s specific definition of “widespread pain” 💥 How to know if your pain is severe enough for the highest rating 💥Why many veterans are rated incorrectly—and what you can do if you think you’re one of them

Don’t let the VA undervalue your claim. Learn how to challenge an improper rating, gather strong evidence, and position your appeal for success. If you need dedicated advocacy, the team at Vet Law Office offers free consultations with no fee unless you win.

Episode on Persian Gulf Presumption: https://youtu.be/h3d2Fmi0_RI

Watch this episode on YouTube:https://youtu.be/tTtOSs6hjGM

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims.

Are you a veteran who doesn’t meet the VA’s standard criteria for Unemployability? VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer explains how you may still be eligible for a 100% disability rating through a process known as “extraschedular” unemployability.

In this episode, you’ll learn what extraschedular unemployability actually means and how it differs from the typical VA process. Ed breaks down who reviews your case when you fall outside the usual rating system, why this option is considered a last resort, and in what situations it might be the right choice. He also shares how to strengthen your claim with supporting documents such as buddy statements, medical nexus opinions, and vocational reports. Real-life examples help illustrate when and how to appeal a denied claim.

Navigating the extraschedular route can be complex, but it isn’t out of reach. This episode offers valuable insights into building a solid case and knowing when legal support might make all the difference.

Episode on substantial gainful employment and TDIU: https://youtu.be/go1SuDE_itg

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims.

Are you aiming for a 70% rating for your mental health condition, but you're not sure which symptoms to show the VA? VA-accredited attorney and Army combat veteran Ed Farmer explains exactly what the VA looks for when rating mental health claims at the 70% level.

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/xCR0O3TvsHM

In this episode, you'll discover: ✅ Real-life symptom examples the VA expects to see for a 70% rating ✅ Why your symptoms must impact all areas of life—work, family, and social relationships ✅ How to safely talk about suicidal ideation with the VA ✅ The critical role of C&P exams and why speaking up matters ✅ How lay statements and treatment records can support your claim

Get practical advice on preparing for your exam, documenting your symptoms, and building a stronger case—even if you’ve been denied before. Don’t risk missing out on the rating you deserve—and contact Ed directly if you need help.

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor is Edward M. Farmer able to predict the outcome of any claims.

Confused about how the VA determines the effective date for your disability benefits? VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer walks you through three essential exceptions to the VA's standard effective date rules and explains how these exceptions could put more money in your pocket.

In this episode, you'll discover: 💥 How you can get up to one additional year of back pay for increased rating claims 💥 Why filing within a year of discharge could mean earlier benefits 💥 How newly discovered service records can unlock years of retroactive payments 💥 Real-world examples that show these rules in action

Don't miss vital compensation because of common effective date mistakes. Whether you're filing, appealing, or reopening a case, this episode is packed with information every veteran needs.

Find this on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6TDCzVzjl7I

If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Are you a veteran struggling to understand VA unemployability claims? VA-accredited attorney Ed Farmer breaks down four critical factors every veteran must know when filing an unemployability claim.

In this video, you'll learn: ✅ Why simply being unemployed isn't enough to qualify for Unemployability ✅ Other government decisions are not binding on the VA ✅ Why VA Form 21-8940 is essential ✅ Why delaying your claim could cost you in back pay

Don't leave benefits on the table. Understand the process, avoid common mistakes, and position your claim for success. Whether you're filing for the first time or appealing a denial, this video gives you the legal insight you need.

VA Form 21-8940 - https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-21-8940-are.pdf

Video on how to file Form21-8940 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oShcPd5DT8

Video on TDIU facts you should know - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aknD9wpBdBM

Find this on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nUu07INyJlA

If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Is Filing for Sleep Apnea Still Worth It if You Use a CPAP Machine?

In this episode, Ed explains the changes to sleep apnea disability ratings and what they mean for veterans. The automatic 50% rating for CPAP use is being phased out under the new criteria, but filing for service connection remains essential—especially if sleep apnea is affecting other health conditions. Ed discusses cases where veterans may still qualify for ratings, such as when a CPAP machine is ineffective or unusable due to other medical issues. He also highlights the importance of filing secondary claims for conditions linked to untreated sleep apnea. Finally, Ed urges veterans not to delay their claims to take advantage of being grandfathered under the old criteria.

Find this on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XXGrLZBxzOo

If you're looking for more help, please schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/vetlawoffice

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on these pages and on any pages linked from these pages are intended to provide only general information about the VA disability claims system. Every case is unique, and neither Edward M. Farmer nor VA Made Easy, LLC are providing legal advice for your specific VA case or legal matter. You should consult with a VA accredited attorney before relying upon any of the information presented here. The acts of making a comment or viewing information from VA Made Easy LLC’s YouTube channel do not create an attorney-client relationship. Case results are not guaranteed nor am I able to predict the outcome of any claims.

You can also find more information about my practice at: https://www.vetlawoffice.com