For Your Benefit
For and about Hawaii's military
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Vets can appeal disability decisions
Question: What should I do if I think an error was made on a disability decision?
Answer: If it has not yet been a year since that decision was issued, you are still within the time frame to appeal the decision, and you should file a notice of disagreement. This must be submitted in writing and specify exactly your disagreement. Refer to your decision notification letter and the Department of Veterans Affairs form 4107, "Your Rights To Appeal Our Decision." It can be downloaded from www.vba.va.gov/pubs/ forms/4107.PDF. If you do not have a copy of your decision notification letter, contact the Honolulu VA regional office at (800) 827-1000, or stop by the regional office located at Tripler Army Medical Center's E-wing.
If it has been more than a year, that decision is final. To have that decision reviewed, you will need to specifically identify the error you believe was made, such as the determination of service connection, the effective date, or evaluation for a claimed disability. You will also need to identify the factors that resulted in an incorrect outcome, such as the incorrect application of the law.
It may be best to discuss your personal situation with a VA or Veterans Service Organization representative who can advise and assist you with your claim. The VA and Veterans Service Organization representative are located on the Diamond Head-Ocean corner of Tripler Army Medical Center (E-Wing).
Q: Will the VA finance the purchase of a VA-owned property?
A: Yes, vendee financing (i.e., seller financing) is available for most, but not all, property sales. With vendee financing the down payment requirements are very reasonable, and the interest rate is established by VA based on market conditions. Any prospective purchaser who requests VA financing to purchase a VA-owned property must have sufficient income to meet the loan payments; maintain the property; pay all taxes, insurance, utilities and other obligations; and have acceptable credit. The purchaser must also have enough funds remaining for family support. For additional information on purchasing VA-owned property, call the VA at (800) 827-1000.
If you have questions about your benefits as a veteran, call Fred Ballard at the Veterans Affairs at 433-0049 or visit the VA Web site at
www.va.gov/hawaii or the Star-Bulletin at 529-4747.