The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) has reported a 36 percent reduction in the backlog of Veterans’ disability compensation and pension claims since March 2013, which they attribute to new transformation initiatives and increased employee productivity.
Allison A. Hickey, Department of Veterans Affairs’ Under Secretary for Benefits, reported this progress in a December 2013 hearing before the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. The VBA’s transformation plan included improvements in workforce, business processes, and technology, ultimately moving toward paperless claims processing.
In addition to cutting the backlog of claims, progress has also been made regarding the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS), the Department of Veterans Affairs’ web-based, paperless electronic claims processing solution. Continuing to incorporate this system in local VA offices across the country as well as developing its capabilities will help streamline the claims process even further.
There are also many advantages for registered users of eBenefits, the joint Defense Department/VA web portal for accessing and tracking VA benefits. Premium members can file their claims online, track their status, and access other benefits like pension, education, health care, home loan eligibility, and vocational rehabilitation and employment programs.
If you would like more information about the Veterans Benefits Management System or filing for disability benefits in general, please contact the expert staff of Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law today.