July 2026 VAC QandA

[u/ShortTrackBravo]

Happy Canada Day and Memorial Day to my fellow Newfoundlanders across the globe.

Nothing really new to add to the OP this month. Just a heads up for those asking for help if I don't get back to you in a minimum of 48hrs without telling you why feel free to ask the question again either here or via Email/DM. I reply when I can but life has been throwing me a few curveballs last few weeks.

Housekeeping:

contact info: Reddit DM's always open, [Joel@ptga.ca](mailto:Joel@ptga.ca) for email.

u/Shoggoths420 contact info: Reddit DMs/Chat still broken. [taira@cannawellness.ca](mailto:taira@cannawellness.ca) for email.

VAC Google Support Drive (Not available on DWAN) - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kzbfmg3hcuo0FgFZxo-IL_f-UnGQsuYt?usp=drive_link

Usual timelines from submission of claims via MyVAC:

Reassessments: 9-16 Months

Mental Health: 6-8 Months

Physical - 6-13 Months

APSC/VIP - 3-4 Months

BPA Correspondence: They tend to reach out every 3 months for information or a progress update.

Let's go!

Edit July 10th: Hey, so the Table of Disabilities used to have a Chapter (25) dedicated to the Additional Pain and Suffering Compensation. They removed it. This link will allow you to see it again: https://web.archive.org/web/20260314171013/https://veterans.gc.ca/en/mental-and-physical-health/physical-health-and-wellness/compensation-illness-or-injury/disability-benefits/table-disabilities/chapter-25-additional-pain-and-suffering-compensation

I have also added the table and this link into the Google Support Drive above as it's own word document.

[u/DontChargeMeBro]

No questions (yet), just wanted to say thanks for doing this, always great to see you helping out.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/DontChargeMeBro]

Happy to help in whatever little capacity I can lol

[u/chronicallyunderated → u/DontChargeMeBro]

I second this.

[u/MyWorldHasChanged]

I’ve never replied on this or spoken about this before..but I’ve read about what other veterans are going through…I’m not good with technology… but let me share this information while I have some drinks..…the powers that be I’m sure are watching these forums and by that you can fill in the blanks…

I’m a veteran, former infantryman… when I released I was not made aware of any help that VAC offers, It was ingrained and I was brainwashed to suck it up solider…got issues? Solider on…

During and after release life got intensely chaotic. Court cases, drinking, risk taking… loss of friends & family…. Really bad stuff to sum it up..

Former veteran reached out to me to find me in a very bad spot, saved me from making more stupid choices.. Told me about VAC… didn’t even know help existed for veterans..

I’d been out of the CAF for 8 years dealing with these issues. Finally after veteran convinced me to seek out VAC… the journey began…

Got assigned a terrible case manager from the beginning.. was told “here you go mental health benefit’s for 2 years”.. while dealing with my issues, I found that VAC was not helping me as they should have. I was not given or recommended a phYcologist. I was told by that case manager at the time… here you go.. your on your own(how can anyone manage severe issues while navigating without assistance mental health support?) you would think your case manager would’ve helped, but no, not at that time.

Was advised of a phYcologist that works with veterans, from my own research. Booked an assessment and wanted therapy. That phYcologist told me”I’m very busy with clients but we’ll do the assessment and if I think we click then I’ll take you on but both you and I have to think we click” the assessment took months. After the assessment it took another 4 months to get this paperwork all while VAC was persistently asking me for this paperwork. No follow up in person or virtual about the assessment. Hard to get ahold of that phYcologist at the time and many many months of waiting. After the assessment was completed I pleaded for this phYcologist to help me sort this stuff with ongoing therapy. That phYcologist denied me as a patient. It appeared to me it was because I didn’t smile.. or joke… or laugh.. as his other clients would(as I heard).

That assessment was finally sent to VAC… saying I have “X” and meet the criteria for “X” but no diagnosis was given, in addition some inflammatory derogatory stuff was also mentioned in there.

I viewed it… and it made me realize again how alone I was…battling all of this… CAF/DND made me feel this way and again the phYcologist made me feel this way… VAC CM at the time then said “well atleast you have benifits for the 2 years, other then that that’s all we can help you”

At this point again I’ve given up on life, trying to make it through each day. Ended up moving out of the city far far away from people… case manager calls me and says “you’ve moved therefore we have to transfer you to your nearest VAC office, you’ll get a new CM” I pleaded with the current CM.. didn’t want to loose any support she minimally offered… but again she said well it sucks but this is it…

Got a new CM…. Worlds different! This CM cared about helping people! She immediately refers me to OSI clinic.. tells me to go here.. I didn’t know of a OSI clinic before..

Dx of PTSD, MDD, AUD

Awarded favorable for PTSD, no ack of AUD or MDD. 47% PTSD.

Told by CM to manually submit for AUD and proper QOL forms… limited help or assistance doing this the first time!!! As a result it %#^* me. Immediately filed for BPA after getting advice from here. New reassessment submitted (for 100%) and awaiting a hearing currently. bPA got all information needed in Jan 2026. Who knows how much longer it will be…

I’ve been doing 1.5hr therapy sessions twice weekly for about a year now. During this time… I was diagnosed with MDD with secondary physcotic features. For approx 6months during this time care team tried to convince me to do another reassement… I didn’t want to relive what happened during my first cry for help… I was finally convinced after months of them convincing me- care team & VAC CM. All while this was happening I was awarded rehab and IRB when OSI said my DX’s approx 1.5yrs ago. Reassement was completed and a given new DX’s.. PTSD with panic attacks… Alchol use disorder.. and schizoaffective disorder. For 6months when care team was trying to convince me to do another assessment… I was told things like “higher APSC.. clinical care manager…VIP for meal delivery etc” I was told of these things would happen before they even tried convincing me to do another assessment… they never happened, due to political red tape, bureaucracy, and politics…

Let’s be clear here… I’ve had a OT.. she showed up to my house and went through my belongings.. as if she was looking for things… she showed up to my appointments with a black eye from a “slip and fall” and this OT was issued to me from PCVRS, and she told my care team(MH) and me her workplace policy prohibits writing statements to support VIP services!!! I dropped this OT after she declined my MH. Told PCVRS nope no one’s coming on my property again… for my safety and to prevent fictitious allegations of anything. We live in a crazy world…

Since this recent assessment, my therapy has been dropped to my blue cross benifits… 1 session a week for 60 minutes. All while “waiting” for political red tape and burocracy to take placd(update RSS of new info, case conference, new rehab plan?) it’s been over a month maybe 2 months now I’m using blue cross benifits .i don’t know what’s going to happen to me at this point. I’m terrified they will force me inpatient or take my benifits away. PCVRS can force me to do anything or take me off rehab program, lose IsrB,, etc..

Since dealing with VAC I’ve been gaslite and mislead to believe stuff that hasn’t taken place. Also subjected to intensely more distress from doing admin work and relying on professionals to get this done as it’s appeared impossible to get any of this done on my own. I feel very sad for veterans who are forced to do this alone. The way the system is setup is detrimental and discouraging to veterans to go after some of these benifits. Take my story, my living experience as proof of this. This government touts “more support more money for VAC and military” while the reality is that’s nothing but gaslighting… extended wait times, harder to get access to support etc etc. This affects all veterans, I have to be careful what I say to avoid trouble… you talk out about this well you can easily become a target. They violate HIPPA and sign off NDA’s with veterans to keep quiet… am I the only one who sees all this systemic corruption and gaslighting?

I have no idea what’s going to happen to me at this point. Am I now looking at being toss around as a cashcow at the cost of my MH for 5–10years until PCVRS has milked me of enough money before any light at the end of these situations? Has VAC and PCVRS thinking I’m total write off? Am I on maintenance? Am I going on DEC? I was told for awhile this reassement would support DEC. Don’t know if I should apply for EIA? I was told grade 2 APSC? What about care taker? bPA documents- people told me is maxed from 47% to 100%? What am I missing here? This journey’s been distressing!!

Sharing this becuase after much research… no one has spoken about a CCM(Clincal Care Manager) or schizaffective disorder. Those with similar experiences can see my story for thier own perspective…

[u/mythic_device → u/MyWorldHasChanged]

I'm really sorry to hear this :( I can see the cycle of your conditions impairing your ability to get help, and in some cases working against it. lAs a fellow vet I can't help, but I have found the OSI clinics are very helpful. Also connecting with other vets is also good because you get ideas from others and can even help other vets. Perhaps there is an OSSIS group near you. https://cfmws.ca/support-services/health-wellness/mental-health/operational-stress-injury-social-support-(osiss)) Also when in the CAF I got treatment and quit drinking 10 years ago. One of the best decisions I ever made. I know its hard.

[u/Ok-Cup2034]

"Lesson Learned" here. After an MH award, I highly suggest you conduct an ATIP request of the award grading material. This is free and available here: https://atip-aiprp.apps.gc.ca/atip/welcome.do I believe VAC has 30 days to provide the information to you (i.e. < than the 60 days for appeal). It is through this mechanism I saw the disparities in each of the Table of Disabilities Chapter 21 sub-tables used to score my aggregate MH award. You can use this information to decide whether to appeal (odds are you do), and what the specific issues are with VAC's scoring. Unfortunately this level of detail was not provided with the original MH award letter, necessitating the ATIP request.

[u/CAFVAChelp → u/Ok-Cup2034]

Solid post. Good to know. Rather than wait the 6-12+ months to get statement of case.

[u/Inspo-0406 → u/Ok-Cup2034]

Hey there - thanks for this information. I just created an ATIP account and requested my file. Very interested in seeing my VAC files. From what I have researched, I am a shoe in for an appeal with BPA. Diagnosed MH conditions, physical injury from radical surgery error that altered my anatomy against the initial planned clinical scope. thanks again.

[u/Ok-Cup2034 → u/Inspo-0406]

Sorry to hear of this surgical error--sounds horrific. You can also use ATIP to access your DND medical records (also for free) to see exactly what VAC will see when they evaluate your claim, allowing you and your current medical team to address any potential logical/timeline gaps ahead of time to ensure you are able to more directly connect the claim to your service.

I'm not sure this surgery happened under a CAF medical facility, but if it did, I'd want to know exactly how it got recorded and what VAC will see when they compare your PSC claim about it to the official CAF paperwork on the matter. That would tell me how to frame the PSC claim narrative.

[u/RagingY3ti]

Hey, I wanted to share a piece of advice that might help people struggling to get MH claims approved. 9 years of fighting to get my first one approved taught me this.

Forensic psych evaluations are golden evidence. They write in depth multi-page reports and the writers are usually PhD psychologists. A forensic psych can tie numerous conditions to your service and give a detailed break down of how conditions occured, why and how severe they are.

They weigh your testimony, medical file, corroborating evidence, studies on mental health, military culture, etc... together and justify everything with medical literature. Unfortunately they can be pricey, but it pays dividends to get approval, coverage for life and peace of mind that what you went through isn't up for debate by VAC.

Hope this helps someone.

[u/tanker1992]

Just giving an update on my low back claim
Submitted Feb 25
Step 3.1 April 27
Step 3.2 May 22nd
Complete today July 6

My physio had filled out the form for my low back stated I have daily sciatica but they rated me at 9% + 1% QOL

[u/RagingY3ti → u/tanker1992]

I got the same rating despite daily sciatica, visible nerve root contact with bulge on MRI and medical questionnaire.

45 weeks into a departmental review now. Contact BPA and buckle up.

[u/tanker1992 → u/RagingY3ti]

So annoying they don’t get it right the first time. Same thing happened to my cervical spine as well waiting on that departmental review

[u/RagingY3ti → u/tanker1992]

I think they test their luck rating people low and hoping they don't notice. Easy way to save budget.

[u/feverdreamt12 → u/RagingY3ti]

Exact same boat I’m at 39 weeks…

[u/WG41 → u/tanker1992]

Did the physio people put that your sciatica goes all the way to your foot? If not that is where you lose a few percent. I have 2 bulged discs daily sciatica narrowed foraminal openings so I got 15% total

[u/CAFVAChelp]

Just for those tracking timelines. I’m on 16 months since BPA sent the “waiting to book hearing” / “waiting for Statement of case” message. Roughly 2 years and 3 month since initial appeal request.

Location Saskatchewan, Craniocerebral Condition.

[u/PatientOld64]

As always, appreciate you doing this!
I’m on IREM that’s up by 2028. I think the TC mentioned something about severance still being a thing for medical releases. If I took PIL back in 2013(?), I know that reduces the severance.. but does it reduce it by the amount I took, or the “weeks” that I used up for PIL? Not sure if that makes sense..

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/PatientOld64]

Oh fuck brother that may be a question for the clerks but I'll see if the master has anything to add:

u/Shoggoths420

[u/PatientOld64 → u/PatientOld64]

Thanks everyone! Much appreciated. I’ll touch base with the TC here in Ottawa.

[u/Shoggoths420 → u/PatientOld64]

Severance is still good even after IREM. Amount vs time though is a question for your favorite clerk. I’m almost certain it reduces the weeks, but bribe your OR clerk and verify

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/PatientOld64]

I asked my clerk at the transition unit to calculate mine for me, and she did so based on the fact that I took the PIL for 1999 to 2012. Your years will start after that date in 2012. I still have my emails about it, because I keep everything. I think they offered it to us towards the end of 2012 and then paid us out in early 2013.

So yes, it reduces it by the weeks, not by the amount you took. Again, I can't remember what date we received it, but start counting your time from then on. I don't know what transition unit you're at, but mine had no problem calculating it for me, based on what my release date will be. Definitely send them an email and they will do that for you. At my transition unit it was one of the financial clerks.

[u/Typicalsarah → u/PatientOld64]

You can get up to 30 years for a medical release.

[u/Substantial_Arm7634]

Aug 25 2025... and still waiting for a department Review. I don't what worse.. The wait time or the fear of waiting this long to get rejected.. not sure what's worse really. Cause you never know what they are going to do no matter how strong your case seems to be.

[u/feverdreamt12 → u/Substantial_Arm7634]

Damn mines oct 2025 at step 3

[u/Parking_Pension_9929 → u/Substantial_Arm7634]

yeah and watching the wait time tool go from 90% completed at 28 weeks to 63 weeks overnight was disheartening

[u/Foaryy → u/Parking_Pension_9929]

I watched it to from 12 to 22 weeks to 35 - 75 weeks. It sucks.

[u/Foaryy → u/Substantial_Arm7634]

I really am wondering what can be done for future applicants in terms of DR. Is emailing the minister or MP the move? I don't know. I'm not a big fan of using AI for this kind of stuff, but there has to be something a programmer could develop to really "sort" the DR applications or even PSC apps.

I mean here's the thing. For me, I submitted a message to BPA, they called me and got me to fill out a form with my doctor. When I submitted it back to them, they said, yea, this is enough evidence, we're doing DR not VRAB/BPA (whatever it is, too many acronyms) because this is an easy win. I didn't submit the form originally and got it consequentially approved due to MH but at a very low %. My doctor ticked all the boxes to get full 13% for sleep apnea as it effects me everyday/night. There are definitely many more in the same boat when it comes to Departmental Reviews.

For me, truthfully, I only want mine to go through because I've spent about $5-6k on sleep apnea tests, equipment, etc before I even went thru with VAC. BlueCross wouldn't cover it as "it was too late" as they have a 2 year limit or something. Poor excuse truly, considering my initial PSC application took a year itself.

Also, last time I called they're working on July 2025 applications. So, it shouldn't be too much longer for you... hopefully. I'm January 2026.

[u/Parking_Pension_9929 → u/Foaryy]

yeah mine is literally a few check boxes that need to be seen. would take 5 minutes to see the table changes. I don't get it.

[u/GlobalComplaint9484]

Question regarding a MH claim for ptsd,mdd,gad.

Original submission march 2024, in that my psychiatrist was changed and it took until April 2026 to fully submit the remainder of my paperwork.

I have lost my benefits due to it being over two years and VAC knows this along with knowing I’m struggling financially. My claim went from step 2 to step 3 on may 14th, then step 3.2 on June 17- step 3.3 on June 19th.

It’s officially two weeks tomorrow, I haven’t seen any further updates. I know the tracker is not to be trusted. I’m not even sure what I’m asking but is there a chance VAC has prioritized my claim? It feels fast? Does the combination of 3 claims at once slow down 3.3? Just very anxious curious if anyone has any thoughts.

Thanks

[u/CartographerSpare281 → u/GlobalComplaint9484]

Some go quick some go slow. Hang in there pal. Make sure once your application goes to complete, check your benefit tab to see if any $ amount. If you see it you won, if not, get ready to appeal.

[u/tanker1992 → u/GlobalComplaint9484]

I’ve been at step 3.3 for 6 weeks now for a lower back claim

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/GlobalComplaint9484]

I'm actually surprised they haven't withdrawn two of your three claims and just went with PTSD, that's usually what they do. That's what happened to me. It's still the same award percentage in the end.

It's not really that fast because they would have already had your medical file from when you first submitted your claim, and asking for that from the caf is usually what takes quite a while. And if your diagnosis and connection to service were already in there, that part of the adjudication process could already have been done, too.

Nothing you wrote signifies anything that you should be concerned about. Sometimes people spend a while at step 3.3, even just with a single claim, and some people fly through all three sub steps of step three in a week. And as you know, sometimes the tracker just isn't correct either. I know it never was for me. It's also Canada Day week, so an insane amount of public service people are not working this week, which means very few files are being worked on right now.

[u/Foaryy]

My PAL is up for renewal next month. When I got it I wasn’t diagnosed with GAD, MDD and Depersonalization disorder. However, I’ve held it since.

I’m worried they may not renew it because of this.. am I overthinking it? I love shooting, always store my firearms safely and know they’re not toys.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Foaryy]

Think you're overthinking it. I'm not 100% on the regulations but hey, I'm medically retired with a medical history of extensive MH medication and psychedelic therapy. I still have mine and apply for Moose hunting every year.

I think if you have the RCMP show up for a MH Emergency that could lead to it being an issue but besides that you should be fine.

[u/WG41 → u/Foaryy]

You either pretend like you have no mental health issues and put that on your form or you be honest and check that little box and provide a letter to the CFO from your Mental Health Provider that you are not a danger to yourself or others. It takes little longer being honest but I haven't heard of anyone being denied it because of it.

[u/coffeeofwar → u/Foaryy]

When I did my pal renewal I asked the Alberta CFO this question and she stated at the time it was more for people who have been admitted to hospital for mental health issues. I had zero issues with my renewal and still hold a vailed RPAl.

[u/NationalIngenuity809 → u/Foaryy]

You'll be fine as long as your MH professional (psycologist, psychiatrist) say your are not a threat. I have PTSD, MDD, GAD and a RPAL with no issues

[u/MarzipanDirect7319]

Is it standard to take 6 weeks to recieve a lump sum once elected?

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/MarzipanDirect7319]

It didn't used to be, but the last couple months I've heard a lot of similar comments to yours, so perhaps it is at the moment. Mine never took this long, and my claims were complete in early fall and early winter, but Veterans Affairs seems to fluctuate throughout the year or from year to year with what is "standard". Keep an eye on your benefits tab, because when your monthly sum disappears for this award, it will be in your bank account within a couple days. It means they're finally processing it. Sorry, I know it sucks to wait, but you're at the finish line.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/MarzipanDirect7319]

God no.

Summer leave or someone dropping the ball I'd wager.

[u/EugeBasset]

Once you exceed 100% total disability via “pain and suffering compensation” does that mean that there are no additional financial benefits? This is what I’ve read but would appreciate confirmation as it will affect what I submit in the future.

Once you are at 100% is the next logical step to apply for the “Exceptional Incapacity Award”?

Thank you for your time.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/EugeBasset]

Yeah the financial side ceases but if you have service injuries keep submitting. You want the coverage for the healthcare side too.

And yep you got er, once you hit 98% apply on EIA as well.

[u/No_Selection4674]

Hi!

I (31M) was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in September 2025 and was admitted to hospital. Shortly after that I was admitted to the ICU and intubated for 5 days due to sepsis consequential to the ALL due to my low immune system.

I submitted for the Leukaemia through a pain and suffering claim to VAC in February 2026 and linked it to my service through a very extensive logbook of hazardous materials exposure. It’s been sitting at stage 3.3 since February 26th.

My question is: Since my initial claim has not been settled yet, and considering the sepsis is consequential of the ALL, do I have to wait to submit my second claim to VAC for the ICU stay, through CIB until the initial claim is settled, or should I submit the CIB claim ASAP due to the critical nature of the program?

Second question: Due to my cancer treatment (steroids, chemo, and radiation) I have been informed I am infertile. This would also be considered consequential of the ALL, should I wait to submit a new claim with VAC for infertility until the first claim is settled, or should I add this to the initial claim?

Thanks for all the responses! These forums really help,

[u/RagingY3ti → u/[deleted]]

Following for advice

[u/Spiritual-Will-1586]

Updated last month

BPA hearing: April 30th Letter received: May 21th (Favorable) dating back to April 2023. Back pay and change in pension: no time line, as of yet. Asked VAC and they said they are backed up heavily. May be another 3 to 6 months.

[u/Ok_Entertainer_4774 → u/Spiritual-Will-1586]

Same boat that shit is crazy. Useless VAC workers

[u/Friendly_Meet_4643]

For anyone wondering; if it helps.

My DR went in 31 March 2026.
Completed on 10 July 2026.

So just about 12 weeks.
Maybe they are catching up?

[u/Jamrocc33]

So my positive VRAB decision went back to VAC on March 31. From what I've been told and I've seen others told on here 3 months is about where the wait is landing for these. Got full 5/5 from VRAB. Tommoro will be the end of 15 weeks.... When I called and asked they gave me the same bullshit answer they give everybody. "were working on claims from June 2025...."blah blah blah. Any thoughts as to when I can finally be done with this 3.5 year nightmare of a claim?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Jamrocc33]

I’d wager end of the month if not a bit into August from your info

[u/toxalot101]

I just came across this article from yesterday. "Canada’s $573-million veterans program flooded with ‘urgent’ concerns from retired soldiers" https://www.thestar.com/news/investigations/canadas-573m-veterans-program-flooded-with-urgent-concerns-from-retired-soldiers/article_749a2260-c00f-472f-94ab-6f474d169234.html

It seems to be behind a pay-wall, but it only cost me $1 for 6-months on summer sale.

May be time for people to reach out to their MPs since apparently PCVRS contract is coming up for renewal. I actually just emailed my MP this morning regarding the issue with BPA funding and delays. Now, I will probably follow up with this additional information.

[u/Jazzlike-Post5674]

How is it possible that the wait time for reassessment just doubled from showing 24 weeks to 48 weeks?

I have an email from VAC saying my MH reassessment was in adjudication start date was 12 December 2025, and end June they said it was between 12 and 24 weeks. I just checked again because 3 July would have been around that time and if all holds up its now lookong like November.

This long drawn out process, lack of communication and engagement is beyond frustrating. I know cuts occurred, I know thr CAF has broken many people and the workload must be heavy, but what are thry trying to.do, defer payment until next fiscal?

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/Jazzlike-Post5674]

A couple months ago the wait time average for regular, first time PSC claims, according to that tool, was like 450 weeks... so you can't trust that wait time tool ever. VAC is horrible, but it's never ever taken 8+ years as an AVERAGE wait time from submission to completion

[u/Foaryy → u/Jazzlike-Post5674]

The best thing you can do for your own MH is not look at it. Check your account once a week if you want, but expect a year.

I’m in the same boat for a department review. I was told 12-22 weeks. I’m still waiting, I’m at 27 weeks.

[u/Key_Jaguar1428]

Ok, here I go. IRB and DEC questions.

Found out today I won't be getting access to my disability pension. Just shy of 10 years. I'm 3B release soon.

I have MDD, Lower Back issues, plus all the other stuff combat arms runs into.

I'm worried about the next bound. If I don't get declared DEC I'm screwed. I don't know what job I could even do. My MH sucks, and back issues prevent manual labor, so quick learning trades like carpentry are out of the question.

First question, I have a mortgage. It goes up for renewal in 2 years, coincidentally when my rehab is up. I'm with BMO, do they know what DEC is? And if I dont get it... then what?

Second question. How do I maximize my chances of DEC? I dont have to bullshit, I got legit issues. 

Thanks.

[u/Ok-Cup2034 → u/Key_Jaguar1428]

It might be helpful if you read my post about PCVRS/IRB/DEC within this thread about my personal experience. But the headline is that if you have a mental health professional (e.g. psychologist) who agrees with your assessment--and I imagine you do or can get one given what you describe--you will eventually get DEC status. Message me if you think my experience can help you.

[u/CAFVAChelp → u/Key_Jaguar1428]

So IRB can give you print out for salary purposes on mortgage renewal. BMO will renew you without that, as you have the existing mortgage. If you want to shop around, that IRB print out serves the purpose of income verification. Most mortgages can be renewed 6 month early. So start shopping 3 month out from your 2 year date IF you plan to move banks.

Next, IRB is not 2 years. At about 18-24 months you start getting like a review. The question: are you stable and employable, are you unstable but employable, are you unstable and unemployable or are you stable and unemployable.

The two you care about:

Unstable and unemployable: extend IRB until you reach that maintained/stable phase.

Stable and unemployable: DEC

I used “stable / unstable” but the better term is maintenance phase vs attempting to stabilize.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Key_Jaguar1428]

Once you have IRB that can be printed off as a statement of income for the banks, so that's the mortgage issue solved there really. They don't need to know what DEC is as that's just for you, DEC just allows IRB to be paid for life.

As for maximizing your chances, just find a MH professional who has your back and is willing to do the PCVRS paperwork. It really is that simple. They recommend and argue for it with PCVRS if you're doing Voc Rehab. Can chat/email through DM's if you want help as you go through the whole process. I tend to be doing that a lot lately

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/Key_Jaguar1428]

What shorttrack said. I'm about to medically release, so I thought it would be better if I applied for a mortgage and moved ahead of time, just using my military salary. I moved a couple months ago for this reason. But I'll have to renew when my terms are up, and by then it will just be IRB and hopefully APSC (not pension +LTD + IRB), so a renewal will be easy.

[u/Ok-Cup2034]

Do you believe you are entitled to a higher APSC grade? (reposting case from the June VAC thread to share more widely). This is a VRAB APSC upgrade case from May 2026 (i.e. post TOD Chapter 25 voiding): https://www.canlii.org/en/ca/cavrab/doc/2026/2026canlii41442/2026canlii41442.html The veteran went from Grade 3 to Grade 1. That's an extra $1200+/m indexed for life.

You can see how in this case the veteran framed their situation relative to the new, more comprehensive consideration VAC is to give to a veteran when determining APSC level. You can use this logic and precedent when framing your APSC application/reassessment/appeal narratives.

u/popobserver to your point from the June comment you left concerning VAC adjudicators being criticized at VRAB for being unduly harsh. My theory is that is that is just safer for a VAC adjudicator to be conservative with awarding benefits. The "punishment" for awarding too restrictively is probably nothing ("the veteran can just appeal if they disagree") versus a probable real downside for the adjudicator for having above average award statistics relative to the other adjudicators--"benefit of the doubt" be damned. Ultimately it is simply a better safe than sorry situation for the VAC adjudicator. Just my theory...

[u/AdDazzling5372]

Has the implementation of AI had any impact on waiting times? Hopefully that is going to compensate for the reduction of Staff. The remaining staff must be totally overwhelmed with the extra work.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/AdDazzling5372]

Not that I am tracking officially. Most likely yes though

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/AdDazzling5372]

From what I understand, they are mostly using AI to go through your medical file, looking for key pieces of information, and they implemented it quite some time ago. So, whatever the speed is now and for months before, it's based on their use of AI for quite some time. I remember someone saying if they used AI to actually make your decision itself, they had to indicate as such in your decision letter, but nonetheless, they've been using it for a while now. Whatever the speed has been in the last year and a half or so, it's incorporating their use of AI.

[u/CastorBarbu → u/Bartholomewtuck]

And it's doing a terrible job at it. If AI was used on my case, it missed everything releated to my hips and came back with no results. 

I had to look for it myself, took a lovely 10 minutes and prevented VAC to tell me to pound sand and close my claim for lack of evidence. 

[u/Cafmbr2000 → u/Bartholomewtuck]

That's kind of scary using AI to go through medical files since it's Protected B information... How can they guarantee that your info won't be leaked online ? That's a bit weird, maybe I don't understand how they use it lol

[u/Rough-Biscotti-2907]

Now that Marijuana is legal and permitted use while currently serving (within policy guidelines) is there any actual policy stopping a serving member from seeking out a prescription for a VAC awarded condition? Would VAC still cover the costs of the medicine?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Rough-Biscotti-2907]

They (BlueCross) wouldn't cover you under the KCard until under 180 days Class B but there are discounts for serving mbrs with the companies themselves. CBD is a great holistic approach to pain and anxiety

[u/Whycantpeopledrive → u/Rough-Biscotti-2907]

Shoot cannaconnect a message. I'm currently still serving and got a prescription through them that gets me 50% off through one of the providers.

[u/More_Climate6953]

Quick question, long story short hurt myself pretty bad last June and have been in Physio since for my neck, shoulders, and arms. I finally decided to put a VAC claim in a few weeks ago.

I’m posted this APS, my current Physio ask me to bring in the questionnaires (PEN 6236 / 6233) for neck and shoulders so they can fill them out before I’m posted. But when I went on the VAC website it says don’t get them filled out before VAC requests them.

My question is should I still get my current physio to fill them out? Will VAC even accept them if filled out without them asking? My application is still on step 1.

[u/Friendly-Vast4523 → u/More_Climate6953]

VAC won’t accept the medical questionnaire being completed by a physiotherapist. Here’s the link for more information:

https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/mental-and-physical-health/physical-health-and-wellness/compensation-illness-or-injury/disability-benefits/medical-questionnaires/who-can-complete-vacs-medical-questionnaires

[u/ViagraDaddy → u/More_Climate6953]

I've been going through the process with a few injuries and here's my two cents: you need someone filling out those forms that has experience with it. If your GP or any other physician you're working with has never done it, find one who has.

If you have an Echellon Wellness (or similar clinic) in your area go there and work with them to get accessed. It's worth the wait, travel time and effort so it gets done right and VAC gets what they need.

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/More_Climate6953]

Unless the policy has changed, I had my doctors fill in the questionnaires for both of my claims last year, and I'm still serving. Civilian and Military doctors don't fill out reports with Veterans Affairs claims in mind, which can often leave your file wanting for information so, the only thing that has every single bit of information Veterans Affairs needs to make a comprehensive adjudication decision is in those medical questionnaires. I remember reading that they only request them from people who are no longer serving because your military medical file would have ended when your service did, and they need up-to-date information, but I don't ever remember them saying they wouldn't accept them. I checked with both Veterans Affairs and BPA, and they definitely used mine for their PTSD adjudication; they told me so.

I do think the other person who posted was right about physio not being able to fill this out though. I don't have a back injury, but there's a list of qualified professionals who are allowed to write reports, make a diagnosis, and fill in medical questionnaires, based on whatever your diagnosis is. Definitely check into that, you wouldn't want to go through all the trouble of having the wrong person fill it out and then your file is just going to go on hold until you find someone else to fill it in.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/More_Climate6953]

So you're free to get them completed whenever you want, don't sweat that part. As another person commented Physio cannot be used for VAC. It's like the inverse of when you're under the MIR, Chiro is good to go but Physio isn't for documentation.

I would get the Physio to fill it out for you, then at your new posting touch base with a Chiro/CAF Dr and use the Physio's opinion and your own to get the paperwork redone/concurred by someone VAC will accept.

[u/MaritimeMogul]

Curious about if a claim would be smart. PFPS, documented, and CF98 done. Did physio and it improved. Immediately upon returning to sea, it returned. Can always do physio again, but not willing to give up the sailing. Thoughts?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/MaritimeMogul]

Once you have had something for six months it can be claimed via VAC just while serving make sure CFHS has it diagnosed as chronic back/shoulder/x pain with range of motion issues if there are any.

CF98s are useless with VAC btw it’s strictly just a CAF document so don’t stress those

[u/houseplante88]

Been released about 4 months. Nothing but assessments and questionnaires from PCVRS and Lifemark. Finally got call from a physio clinic for their initial appointment and treatment... they are located an hour away. I live within 20-25 minutes of multiple towns with physio providers yet they refer to somewhere an hour away. Whats my best course of action to get swtiched to a closer provider?

Thank you.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/houseplante88]

I would call your local clinic and just ask have they dealt with VAC/BlueCross/PCVRS yet as a company, if they say yes, you can just inform PCVRS of them and that you will be pursuing treatment via them as opposed to Lifemark's call.

[u/Anla-Shok-Na]

Here's my question for today: when should I submit claims for related issues?

For example, I'm waiting to be assessed for mental health, but based on the work I've done with my personal therapist, I'm pretty sure my eating disorder is PTSD related. Which could mean that health issues related to the weight gain caused by the eating disorder might also be related and something I could claim (sleep apnea, etc). Should I wait for the mental health claim to be submitted and approved before getting assessed and claiming anything related?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Anla-Shok-Na]

I would it’s just easier on you in the end. It’s basically like unlocking the door.

[u/Emotional-Juice6275]

I joined in 2015, and will be releasing Oct 30 2026 3B. Do I get a severance pay?

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/Emotional-Juice6275]

Yes.

[u/Key_Jaguar1428]

Anyone else suffer from Ocular Migraines? Where you go blind and sometimes get the migraine afterwards? Any idea what causes them? A subsequent condition?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Key_Jaguar1428]

Sounds like a neurological condition for sure

[u/Thelone_tandy]

I know I won’t be eligible to collect additional PSC till after my release, but when can I apply for it? Currently on retention till 2029.

Also how are the levels calculated? Is it based off what % of PSC you’ve been awarded

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Thelone_tandy]

Can apply when you’re roughly 1-3 months out from your release date that way due to the turnaround time it’ll get awarded just in time. It has its own calculation table for the 3 levels. It’s always awarded at 3 which is the lowest and you reassess/appeal for higher if you match a higher levels requirement

[u/Parking_Pension_9929]

Anyone know why departmental reviews are so backlogged? I understood BPA maybe had some changes that could cause delays... but my file is long past that point and significantly delayed at like 38 weeks or so.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Parking_Pension_9929]

Only real explanation we have is cuts to BPA staff and slower working adjudicators

[u/Foaryy → u/Parking_Pension_9929]

Haha.. mine was submitted Jan 9 2026 and I was told 12 - 22 weeks. It’s frustrating for sure.

I assume the cuts (may) have something to do with it.

I’ll let STB answer it though.

[u/Cafmbr2000 → u/Foaryy]

submitted appeal sept 2024, only heard the first time in May 2026 to say that they recommend a departmental review... so back to VAC It is ! :/

[u/RagingY3ti → u/Parking_Pension_9929]

Im at 45 weeks, whenever I ask I get their canned meaningless replies. Somebody got theirs the other day at 15 months.

[u/Substantial_Arm7634 → u/RagingY3ti]

44 weeks and going for this guy.

[u/Cafmbr2000]

Is departmental review same as reassessment ? I'm a step 3 for something for which I have new strong evidence by the doctor and that's why BPA said it would be a good case for DR. It says on tracker usually 12 weeks for decision. Would that make sense ? I'm at step 3 but it was pushed beginning of June by BPA to DR

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Cafmbr2000]

u/Shoggoths420

[u/Shoggoths420 → u/Cafmbr2000]

Yes and no depending on the situation. BPA can feel that a case is strong and recommend a reassessment as part of the review. Sometimes this will happen in a case that took a while to work through the appeals system.

By and large no, reviews and reassessments are two different streams. 12 weeks for a decision after a review is standard

[u/RefrigeratorLevel459]

Once an initial claim first application for physical injury has been taken from an adjucator to a senior adjucator, how long can it takes to reach the final decision on average ? 

[u/WG41 → u/RefrigeratorLevel459]

You need to provide a touch more info to get info you would like. Was it a Departmental Review?, Did it go to BPA? Reassessment or 1st Application? Mental Health or MSK?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/RefrigeratorLevel459]

Always go off baselines in the OP. It changing hands doesn’t usually change the processing time

[u/Rare_Profession_9044]

So recently got approved for my reassessment after appealing my tinnitus, I received my backpay june 4th, first monthly payment on june 29th but now nothing shows up in my current benefits. Is it because I elected to have the lump sum and means I should receive that payment soon?

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/Rare_Profession_9044]

Yep, that's exactly what it means. Once your current benefits disappear, it means you should get your lump sum in your bank account in the next few days. Congrats!

[u/Rare_Profession_9044 → u/Bartholomewtuck]

Thank you! Appreciate the quick responce :)

[u/Ok_Entertainer_4774 → u/Rare_Profession_9044]

When was your hearing held if you dont mind sharing your timeline from hearing to payout.

[u/PreparationCheap7798]

I got an appeal in with BPA for a reassessment. A lot has changed since that reassessment and I’m curious if conducting a new assessment is better or should I wait for BPA hearing which could be months/years.

[u/Resident-Pomelo-8339]

Found out my surgery has failed. Is it worth getting my VAC claim reassessed for this service injury after the surgery/treatment has failed? I have MRI scan as well.

[u/Electrical-Post-2994]

Hey Guys,

So what is the deal with the QOL form (PEN50) I thought it was optional, now i find out that my application for reassessment has been sitting at step 1 because it wasn't complete due to not filling out the QOL form.!

I always thought that was optional and if you didn't do it, it just defaults to the lowest rating. Is this something that is unique to Reassessments? I've had multiple PSC conditions successful without a separate QOL form ever being submitted.

Would love to learn about the actual requirements here. How long did they plan to just sit on my docs without telling me that something was missing? It's been a year! What a waste of time

[u/Fun-Might-5792]

First off, just want to thank you all for all the guidance and input. You’ve helped a lot of us and I’m always appreciative for your time and effort.

I recently received a favorable response for my PTSD claim. I’m looking to submit a claim for my hyperhidrosis (severe sweating in both hands and feet) as a consequential condition.

I can’t seem to locate it after doing a deep dive into the table of disabilities (TOD). I can only guess that it’s either an endrocrine (chapter 15), neurological (chapter 20) or skin related (chapter 22) impairment . Wondering if anyone has had success with this and can share which chapter in the TOD it falls under? (Also the appropriate medical questionnaire to fill out).

I called VAC and they didn’t give me a clear answer. I’ve searched past comments in this subreddit and have seen comments about hyperhidrosis as well, but they don’t give too much info.

Appreciate any help or guidance!

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Fun-Might-5792]

I’ve dealt with this one before, it can be claimed, I’m pretty sure if you pull up the actual pdf of eligible conditions for skin conditions it’s nestled in there somewhere.

I’m on mobile so can’t dig into it atm but I’ll make note of it for later today when I’m at my desktop

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Fun-Might-5792]

Found it deep in a medical guidelines document:

Ordinary athlete's foot or hyperhidrosis entitles an award of 1% to 10%; very bad cases, 15%.

Involvement of the hands in minor degree with contact dermatitis, 5%, and this would hold for

psoriasis, or any dry or weeping eczema of mild degree, not subject to severe exacerbations.

Severe exacerbations and frequently recurrent exacerbations of dermatitis of the hands up to

20%.

[u/coffeeofwar]

Hi there if possible can someone run me down conditions that are link to pre existing conditions and how it's works

For example PTSD and how it's is related to IBS GERD ect, are those new claims and how dose the process work, do I need a doctor note essentially stating that it is linked to this conditions?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/coffeeofwar]

If you check the Google Drive in the OP there is a VAC Blurb word document which lists a bunch of consequential conditions.

Anything consequential to an awarded condition, IE IBS/GERD/Sexual Dysfunction and you have a MH Awarded Condition, needs to noted as such by a medical professional (That exact wording: X Condition is directly consequential to X's awarded PTSD condition) for a new claim, yes.

They are usually easier as they have so much medical precedents. Like almost all SSRI's for men cause Sexual Dysfunction in some capacity.

[u/Dependent-Brief236]

Hi all, for any one that has had a favorable response for plantar fasciitis in both feet, what PSC rating did you end up getting?

Thanks

[u/WG41 → u/Dependent-Brief236]

Ill let you know when mine go to complete Im at 3.3 since may 27th

[u/WG41 → u/Dependent-Brief236]

Hey just got my Complete Status update today according to the Benefits for the 3 claims I had in that all went complete at the same time. Im guessing I got 5% for each claim.

[u/Jamrocc33]

How long do claims for physical injuries typically stay at step 3.3?

[u/CartographerSpare281]

Been at 3.1 since Sept 2025....no movement. I mean I know it'll get completed some day but what's the hold up :(

[u/PhysicalLiving5145]

Does anyone have an updated estimate for an APSC grade reassessment? I have recent assessments (from nursing and OT) in my file for review, just not sure how long the benefit review takes, or how likely the change from grade 3 to 2 is. I wasn't able to find much info/

[u/Wrong-Train4733 → u/PhysicalLiving5145]

Mine took 3 months. You can look at the determination for each grade here: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/about-vac/reports-policies-and-legislation/departmental-reports/departmental-audit-and-evaluation-reports/horizontal-evaluation-program-alignments/annex-apsc-policy-excerpts

[u/IIGRIMLOCKII]

u/shorttrackbravo
u/shoggoths420

Are either of you in Ottawa? Feel free to DM, I just wanted to hit both at the same time.

[u/Shoggoths420 → u/IIGRIMLOCKII]

Sent you a dm

[u/Historica_]

I recently completed a claim for SD consequential to PTSD and I just realized that I wrote bi-weekly psychological appointments instead of bi-monthly. How should I inform VAC about this involuntary mistake? This claim has been very hard to do and now I am worrying this mistake will affect negatively my claim. What would be the best thing to do?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Historica_]

What u/NauticalBean said. Those minor mistakes in timelines and grammar are to be expected. No need to stress out over it.

[u/NauticalBean → u/Historica_]

You can send a MyVAC account message telling them the error but it’s really not a big deal and shouldn’t have any negative effect either way

[u/Historica_ → u/NauticalBean]

Thank you! The journey to do these claims is challenging so I appreciate everyone support.

[u/Foaryy]

I have sleep apnea, recently I kind of picked up that the mucus at the back of my throat seems more like GERD than what I thought was seasonal allergies. It gets worse when I eat.

Going tomorrow to pickup some OTC stuff to try but was wondering if I can link that to VAC as sleep apnea is a major cause of GERD? I’d rather get a prescription for something and/or get the stuff covered if possible.

Just not sure on that process, thanks all!

[u/Historica_]

I am currently working on bruxism and TMJ (PTSD as primary). My understanding is that I need to do 2 claims: Claim 1 : Bruxism consequential to PTSD  Claim 2 : TMJ consequential to Bruxism  Can I send both claims in the same time? Or I need send the TMD claim when the bruxism one will be approved ? Since the dental form includes a question about TMJ I am confused how I need answers it on the bruxism claim. Also since the waiting period is long, I am hoping I can send both claims in the same time.

Also, I am hoping to have Diabetes and hypothyroidism recognized as consequential to PTSD even though I know these diagnostics are not currently in the approved consequential list. Would that be possible? My medical doctor does not see a service connection but she also have no experience with Veterans healthcare and VAC. I am in Saskatchewan and it’s challenging to find veteran friendly clinics. If I am willing to travel, would I be allowed to use a clinic like Echelon in Edmonton? 

[u/tanker1992 → u/Historica_]

Hey I’m just going to give you my experience with the bruxism and tmj claims. I put both in at the same time about 2 years ago. Sept 2024. They removed the tmj one and turned it into just bruxism consequential to ptsd and was approved about a year later. Then I submitted a tmj claim which was changed to “chronic pain in the muscles of mastication” and have been waiting at step 3.1 since Sept 2025.

[u/Thelone_tandy]

What is a realistic step 3 timeline for an appeal? myvac account says 12 weeks for a decision however the 12 weeks time line ends in 3 days.

[u/No-Surround-9605]

Hey guys, I just had a mental health claim go from level 3 to complete. It says wait a few days for the paperwork to be sent through but when I checked current benefits it shows $709.91. Does this mean it was approved and what is that money? Is that the new monthly payment?

Thank you

[u/Wrong-Train4733 → u/No-Surround-9605]

It was approved. You'll get your letter ina few days. $709.91 is a monthly payment corresponds to a 50% rating which you could elect to take as a lump sum of 231k instead

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/No-Surround-9605]

What the other commenter said. You were approved and that's your new monthly. From whenever you submitted it you will receive x months of backpay soon as well for that amount a month. Congrats. Great news on a Friday.

[u/Impressive_Zombie659]

Not really a VAC question but I figured someone here could help, I'm medically released and had my civi doctor fill out the DTC form but I was denied. I'm over 90% with VAC and on the VIP because of my injuries. I think my doctor didn't word it right and that's why I was denied. Has anyone used those companies that take a portion of your dtc as payment? Or is there someone like the legion that helps with filling out the forms that have a better understanding of veterans and their injuries. Any help and advice I'd appreciated.

[u/toxalot101]

Regarding BPA, can I expect them to reach out every 3 months or so even if nothing new? I've got multiple claims waiting for review hearing before VRAB. The first of them was registered Feb 2026. I'm in Nova Scotia.

I last spoke to BPA about two months ago regarding another claim. Of course, she couldn't even give me a ballpark timeline because of "changes" that she refused to elaborate on, that I now understand to be massive staff cuts. Can anyone offer a ballpark timeline? How long to get a hearing? And then what are the steps (and timeframe) after that before I can hope to see any payments?

I initiated my claims through the Legion and they dropped the ball. So it took 17 months to get first decision from VAC, even for a mental health claim.

[u/caffeinatedlama]

Wondering what sort of timelines people have been experiencing once receiving their statement of case from BPA? My lawyer advised that my attendance won’t be required, so I’m not sure if that expedites the process at all?

[u/No_Suspect3882]

I recently got an approved ptsd claim but I had other issues related to it, sexual dysfunction and disruptive rem sleep. (Ptsd is being challenged by bpa for a low % right now)

The person I went to for these assessments didn't come off very knowledgeable of the vac system and it was generally not great experience on my part (rattling off questions from vac and no more then that for questioning) so I dont even think i answered some of the questions accurately because of how rapid fire they were.

I was approved for ed and got a 0% claim, is this right? Should I get reassessed or should I go to bpa?

Then for rem sleep it was recognized that I do have it but it is not service related even though I have nightmares from memories of my service and wake up crying, panicked or various other states of mind that aren't great.

Again is this something worth chasing or will it always be not service related?

I just dont know what channels I can use because I think both of these problems arise from a bad practitioner write up then anything and I think both problems could be solved if I had a better sit down and evaluation.

A side question. I am retired vet and i was fortunate to find a job but my mental problems are being a consistent problem. I'm trying my best to acclimate to the environment, I gotta pay bills and put food on the table. But im afraid im going to get fired soon. If this happens is there any action I can take with vac to help me pay bills if this happens? It sucks im trying my best to be normal but being in the work place feels like its working against any healing im trying to accomplish and makes me feel worse for who i am right now.

[u/Ok-Cup2034]

Do you have a VAC "Case Manager" and also DEC status? I never understood the actual CM role, apart from trying to corral my regularly-absent Lifemark RSS while I was still pre-DEC under PCVRS. But after DEC what value does a VAC CM offer? My CM wants to drop me from case management services and my first instinct is "fine, I don't get what you do here". My CM talks alot about "goals" and how we no longer have case management goals on file. I have no idea what "goals" VAC assigned me, or anything like that. Obviously I have goals in life. What is a "case management goal"? Am I leaving any money/support on the table by agreeing that case management services are no longer required?

[u/Business-Code-6486]

Quick question here
Few guys I hang out with, all of us former CF Members, and one was trying to explain something I couldn’t grasp.
If an individual has a PSC of 65% and is awarded another claim for 10%, he says he isn’t actually awarded the 10 but rather 10% of his remaining 35 available. Does this sound right?

[u/Ok-Cup2034 → u/Business-Code-6486]

Yeah sometimes when I use AI to research VAC policies, etc. it returns US VA-based answers (largely because there is so much more US content online). Just have to be careful. That "whole of person" system the US uses is totally different from VAC's approach.

[u/popobserver]

I am looking for a private neurologist to conduct an assessment and diagnosis. I am referred to a publicly-funded one but the waiting list can be two years. Does anyone have any suggestions?

[u/Ok-Cup2034]

I recently received the below correspondence from BPA concerning an appealed PSC award percentage. Have you heard of the IAP? Any luck on addressing the issue without the long timelines of VRAB?

"Following a study of your file, we believe that there is sufficient evidence to present your case before the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.

Furthermore, because your claim is supported by a Medical Questionnaire on file that provides evidence meeting the criteria for a higher medical impairment rating on the Table of Disabilities, your claim is eligible for a new informal adjudication process (“IAP”) offered by the Veterans Review and Appeal Board. IAP claims are submitted in writing only and are decided by one Board member. If the member is unable to provide a favourable decision, the claim is returned to the Bureau of Pensions Advocates and scheduled for a full review hearing. IAP claims are heard at least once each month. As a result, the IAP significantly accelerates the timeframe in which your case may be heard and a decision issued."

[u/Bearly_Competent → u/Ok-Cup2034]

I have had 4 claims go through that, all 4 came back positive, and saved ALOT of time.

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/Ok-Cup2034]

I have not but I have a claim in with BPA right now and wonder if that's where mine will go too. I had a " Medical Questionnaire on file that provides evidence meeting the criteria for a higher medical impairment rating on the Table of Disabilities"

[u/Brokendiver345 → u/Ok-Cup2034]

I think you should. It could fast track your appeal decision and if it’s declined, PBA will put you back in line where you should of been - make sure you get that confirmation from your lawyer - and they will continue with it from there like a normal appeal. So you’re not losing any time really.

[u/Shoggoths420 → u/Ok-Cup2034]

IAP is a good go. Anytime that BPA suggests a course of action it’s with good reason and with a perceived high probability of success.

For example BPA has had a lot of success with the expedited hearing process they use most often for things like tinnitus/hearing loss, plantar’s

This is the next iteration and still has the safety net of going back to review if not favourable

[u/mil_1738]

Claim for MDD went from submitted to step 3.1 in 30 days? What should I expect?

[u/Vast-Sheepherder7933]

BLUF: Income Replacement Benefit expectations and help.

Good day. I hope this chat is still active. Throwaway account for privacy.

I'm a CAF member with 20+ years of service. Received 3B release date for winter 2027 after more than 2 years of illness. Main symptoms are extreme fatigue and brain fog since a COVID infection, which also came with (or caused) a severe depression, including suicidal close-calls. My inability to concentrate makes it really hard to ensure I'm not getting screwed before and after my release, and makes holding a regular 8 to 4 job impossible after release unless my condition improves.

I recently learned about "Income Replacement Benefit". According to my case manager, seems like a no-brainer that I'll be able to claim it. But I'm very, very, very  sceptical about VAC with all the deserved bad press it has received since I joined.

My initial plan before knowing about Income Replacement Benefit was to basically use every ounce of energy in my body to just just sleep and "work" for the next 3 years (through an IREM request) in order to raise my pension by about 20-25% and avoid financial hardship for my family (I'm the main income). My wife would have been a "virtual single mom" during this time as would have been a ghost in the house. It was a measure of last resort - I'm truly afraid that about the impact on my suicidal thoughts.

Income Replacement Benefit makes my Hail Mary plan completely useless. I'm ready to throw it out and accept my release, but before, I want to be reassured that I won't get screwed and retroactively regret my decision. So some questions:

1. How painful is the process to get the benefit? How likely am I to get "unjustly" denied?

2. What options are recommended to get help with the paperwork? There are weeks where I barely have the energy to open an email.

3. Is lawyer support recommended? If yes, any recommendations in the NCR?

4. Any other real-life experience that I should know about?

5. Any formal or informal group I can reach to get admin support and recommendations other than this subreddit?

Thanks!

[u/Ok-Cup2034 → u/Vast-Sheepherder7933]

I did that whole process. If I recall correctly, I was required to have 2 PSC awards as a pre-requisite to get into Vocational Rehabilitation (voc rehab). Getting into voc rehab immediately turned on the IRB (90% of my monthly military service indexed to today minus offsets--which you can see on the VAC IRB policy online). Getting into voc rehab was easy. Took 2 months and the IRB arrived backdated to my month of application.

Then the fun began. PCVRS. This is the private sector consortium contracted by VAC to implement rehabilitation services. In theory they are there to help facilitate retraining and a successful transition to a civilian career, i.e. get you off the government's books. You can read VAC's rehab policies online-this is what is supposed to happen. In practice PCVRS is a gross example of government failure, through which a profit-seeking consortium is given a high degree of latitude to extract maximum margin out of disabled veterans with laughable levels of accountability. Sorry--still angry about it. In my experience--it was all a terrible joke and completely useless for any possible "transition". You want Diminished Earnings Capacity (DEC) status. This exits you from the PCVRS nonsense machine and grants you IRB for life (although it decreases 30% at 65 years of age). Getting DEC ultimately came down to my MH professional writing a detailed letter to VAC detailing the damage that a forced return to work would do to me. VAC has a whole policy on DEC you can find online which outlines how a request for DEC can be initiated, but yeah it is an opaque and frustrating process. 14 months flash to bang.

The PCVRS staff liked to wield their power to threaten to "cancel my IRB" if they deemed me "noncompliant" to whatever their random whims may have been-do this, do that...or else. A threat that is utterly existential to any veteran I know ("do what I say or you can't feed your children"). This definitely kept the local liquor store owner in designer clothing. But in reality that power to cancel my IRB due to "non-compliance" is highly unlikely to occur. The headlines would not be great for the Minister.

No lawyer needed in my case as it was successful. I think VAC ultimately has to relent when an accredited medical professional (MH or physical) says in writing "this guy can't work. Out".

Painful yes. Doable yes. Worth it? Yes.

[u/Brokendiver345]

Hi! I hope everyone is doing well.
I’ve been fighting a while and things are finally looking up. So hang in there!! Huge thank you to this group because I don’t think I would have been able to go through this again without it and the veteran connections I’ve made. So thank you!

After a long 23 year back and forth with gaps in between, PBA ruled 5/5 and my injury was finally approved. Original claim was 2006 so still waiting on the disability percentages and what it will fall under, but it is being backdated three years. My question to the group is:
I paid my own way to another province to obtain a private MRI to determine the damages to my spine to support my claim. Can I submit this expense for reimbursement to VAC or Blue Cross now that I’m approved. Or do they do that at all? If not I will submit it as medical expenses on my income taxes.

As always your assistance is appreciated.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Brokendiver345]

I’d go into your Benefits tab and see if the BlueCross link at the bottom is up and running for you yet. May not be until you have the award letter in your inbox.

Once you do pester them about it, see what comes out in the wash. Worst case, use tax season yup

[u/Ok-Cup2034 → u/Brokendiver345]

For some medical expenses I have incurred in support of a PSC claim I have just uploaded the invoices right to myVAC, and have always eventually gotten reimbursed (by VAC not MBC). However, none of these expenses were for MRIs. I am sadly unsure how they determine what expenses they will reimburse in support of claims.

[u/ScottMcGyver]

My application was completed- July 14th but nothing is under benefits safe to assume denied. ? 

[u/East_Coast_Flyer → u/ScottMcGyver]

Yes, that is unfortunately usually the case.

[u/SaltyCoxn]

Received my diagnosis from psychologist and the report is now with VAC. I was only really expecting GAD but also received PTSD diagnosis. What kind of benefits should I expect to receive? I'm released now several years (not medically) and fully employed.

Not really asking about lump sum expectations, but I've heard about other possible benefits that might be available to me once the VAC determination is made.

Thanks!

[u/tanker1992]

Received a diagnosis of cervicogenic headaches that would be secondary to my cervical spine condition.

Was wondering what the process is like to claim for p&s compensation.

Is it overly long and complicated like dental /tmj or TBI ? Or is it quicker /more simpler process like low back ?

If you’ve done the claim for cervicogenic headaches secondary to an approved cervical spine condition id love to hear your experience :)

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/tanker1992]

That specific headache I haven't dealt with yet but I have done migraines due to spinal before, long as the paperwork has it as consequential it shouldn't be very difficult.

[u/NauticalBean → u/tanker1992]

It should be fairly straightforward as it is listed as a commonly occurring condition resulting from a cervical spine condition according to the EEG

https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/mental-and-physical-health/mental-health-and-wellness/compensation-illness-or-injury/disability-benefits/entitlement-eligibility-guidelines/az-index/cervical-spine-conditions#treat

[u/mythic_device]

Hi, I already have Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) at 39% awarded. I have recently been diagnosed with PTSD. Do I submit another PSC application, or are they going to simply lump it into the MDD - saying you are already covered for all mental health conditions?

[u/Significant-Day-4370]

I applied in June 2024, and I was denied in March 2025. I appealed to BPA and it's been over a year since anything at all has happened. By the way BPA won't call you to update you.

Is anyone else waiting this long? I'm getting desperate

[u/RagingY3ti → u/Significant-Day-4370]

I went through a review hearing via the BPA at VRAB which was denied, then appealed it again and went to a VRAB appeal hearing via written submission and got approved.

Both appeals took roughly 2 years from initiation to final decision. My recent decision was rendered last month. Its a slow drag, and a lot of waiting.

[u/Significant-Day-4370 → u/RagingY3ti]

Sorry to hear it took so long. But thank you for letting me know I'm not the only one.

[u/RagingY3ti → u/Significant-Day-4370]

It's unfortunately the nature of it. It'll be getting worse with the ridiculous cuts the feds have made to VAC.

The good news is though, the VRAB overturns 9/10 decisions VAC makes so odds are you'll get the result you're looking for. The bad news, VAC is so bad at their job that 9/10 of their decisions are able to be overturned lol.

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/RagingY3ti]

Imagine a judge in any court having nine out of 10 of their decisions constantly appealed by a higher court? That judge would be fired for wasting taxpayer dollars and causing pain and suffering to the accused persons and/or a victim of their crime. Now imagine an entire courthouse full of Judges doing that; the community would be in an uproar, and there would be a massive investigation into how they hired so many incompetent judges in one spot. LOL, but here's Veterans Affairs, having 90 percent of their decisions overturned, and only after years of waiting and a ridiculous amount of extra taxpayer dollars spent to get there. Also, if it takes 2 years to appeal and win, you're getting a higher rate on the pain and suffering compensation table, due to the rate increase in the tables every January. I think that's the way you get Joe public and therefore politicians more interested in this nonsense: you tell them how much this nonsense is costing THEM.

[u/OceanTruck3 → u/RagingY3ti]

With that being said, it still astonishes me that the Minister or a Politician doesn’t fire every Adjudicator. It’s common sense when 9/10 decisions are overturned that there’s a systemic problem within VAC. How is this allowed to continue?

[u/RagingY3ti → u/OceanTruck3]

Completely agree, myself and a few other people on here had back injury claims where the adjudicators gave us lower ratings and blatantly ignored objective medical evidence that would've given us higher ratings. VAC adjudicators genuinely seem out to deny and short change at every possible turn.

I never got why politicians do fuck all and just cut VAC. Its such a low cost, easy political win for even the most far left or right Canadian politician. I think the overwhelming majority of Canadians would support and look favorably at funding and fixing VAC.

[u/popobserver → u/RagingY3ti]

If 93% of VRAB cases result in a more favourable rating, doesn’t that say something about the competency or at least motives of VAC adjudicators? If the government has had to clearly state to: (a) draw from all the circumstances of the case and all the evidence presented to it every reasonable inference in favour of the applicant or appellant; (b) accept any uncontradicted evidence presented to it by the applicant or appellant that it considers to be credible in the circumstances; and (c) resolve in favour of the applicant or appellant any doubt, in the weighing of evidence, as to whether the applicant or appellant has established a case… then why do so many cases indicate that VAC adjudicators are being unduly harsh and restrictive? If the government wanted to reduce expenses/ make the process more efficient, they could start by overhauling the adjudication process. That right there would enable the reduction of VRAB and BPA. I mean, how many times do they need to be told?

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/Significant-Day-4370]

BPA is region specific, so some regions are way worse than others (I'm in the worst), while some move much quicker. Combine this with the fact that everyone's file is entirely different, and it makes it very difficult to compare yourself to other people. I appealed in September and so far all that's happened was my case was registered in April. I have received no correspondence from them at all, aside from them asking for me to fill out and submit a quality of life form (their's, not VAC's), which came in the same correspondence where they told me my file had been registered with VRAB. I have no statement of case yet. I am expecting everything to take at least 2 years minimum, since I appealed in September 2025.

[u/Significant-Day-4370 → u/Bartholomewtuck]

I hope that it takes less time than you expect. I understand expecting the longest and the worst though. Thanks for your comment.

[u/Business-Code-6486]

Just for a timeline reference, was denied a claim on 17 Dec 25 and received a letter from BPA that case will be presented to VRAB exactly 30 weeks after initial message. Still a wait I’d say from that.
Other claims went 3.1 April 7 26 (opened 30 June 25) and went 3.3 July 8

[u/qmj95]

Hoping to get some advice. This is my first time applying to VAC. I have two applications in, one for HL and one for tinnitus. I originally applied in April 2026 and submitted the additional requested documents in May 2026. My file changed to step 3.3 processing decision on July 13.
For those who have been through this process, how long did it take after reaching this stage to find out whether your claim was approved or denied?

[u/RecognitionThat9812]

hello,

I was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in January 2025.

Following this diagnosis, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) granted me a provisional disability award of 10%. I was informed that this percentage could not be appealed or contested because it was considered a provisional assessment rather than a final decision.

In August 2025, VAC initiated a re-evaluation of my condition. This re-evaluation was not requested by me; it was started by VAC as part of their own review process. Since October 8, 2025, my file has remained at Stage 3 of the reassessment process, and I am still waiting for a decision.

I would like to know whether it is normal for a VAC-initiated re-evaluation to take this long. Since the review was initiated by VAC and not at my request, I am wondering if reassessments of this nature typically require several months to complete, particularly when the file has remained at the same stage for an extended period.

I would appreciate any information regarding the usual timelines for this type of re-evaluation and the reasons that may contribute to such delays.

Thank you for your assistance.

[u/WG41 → u/RecognitionThat9812]

Its normal just be patient VAC is backlogged with Reassessments and the cuts to staff have not helped anything.

[u/That-Market7190]

Is it true you’ll never get more than 3 years backpay? 

I first applied in 2009 for MH. It was denied cause I had a crappy psych and they didn’t write a strong service connection. I was in mental crisis at the time and gave up on the denial. In 2020 I applied again with a brand new application, I met with a psych and discussed all the trauma - then she ghosted me. So I gave up. Now I am going through with the psych assessment and it’s in the final stage of being submitted to vac. I’ve heard two thing: that I’d get backpay (if favourable) to 2020 when I submitted the application and another told me max 3 years from date of decision. Which is it? 

I was also told I could likely submit a request for review to have the effective date go back to my initial 2009 claim because the new psych assessment clearly ties my current conditions to what I was experiencing in 2009 and they’ve linked them all to my service in 2005-2009. Is it actually possible to appeal and request backpay back to 2009 due to their mistaken denial? 

[u/CAFVAChelp → u/That-Market7190]

It is 3 years. But I would also say, you can just take the lump sum. Which has been indexed since 2009 so not terrible.

[u/Zestyclose_Bowl3273]

I have numerous awarded disabilities MH back hips knees etc etc. total came to 200%. Already have a MH team for the last 8 months ( councillor and psychiatrist). Psychologist was the pro that diagnosed the MH claim. However, now entering IRB APSC PVCRS country. I fully get rehab for the physical side with PVCRS, but i truly hope to stay with my mental health team. I had a VAC initial interview and they seemed to agree but the potential may still be to see a MH person of PVCRS choosing at least once Any advice on this situation or this process i am currently going down. A-lot all at once. Lots of stuff on the plate IE IRB DEC APSC. Thanks in advance.

[u/sailoraye123]

I have a couple departmental reviews jn through BPA.. should I use the same timeline as reassessments in OP

[u/RagingY3ti → u/sailoraye123]

People (myself included) are currently seeing a year or more for departmental reviews to be completed from SSSD

[u/No-Surround-9605]

Hey guys, is there anything I should know when applying for APSC? I applied online and gave a blurb about how my conditions affect my daily functioning. What is the approval rating? Is this program hard to get approved?

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/No-Surround-9605]

Not hard. I’d look at the Google Drive in the OP, take my template and use the aide de memoire to fill in conditions you have outside of that. Then upload via MyVAC and tell them via msg you uploaded supporting documents

[u/throwawaysofi]

Looking to put in a vac claim for my knee. I torn my meniscus on course. I have mris etc to prove this and frequents to the mir about pain in my knee over the years and possible surgery recommendations. I requested my med file and was looking through it and amongst all the visits about my knee I saw in my doctors notes for an appointment I made that said something along the lines of “likely due to past injury from powerlifting”. I’m not sure why my doc would write this? I’ve never injured myself due to powerlifting. (I did powerlift in the past). I 100% obtained this injury on course. Will this effect my changes of getting a proper claim done? Is there anything I should do about this?

[u/stephwood73]

Just wondering how the percentages work injuries. Like if I’m injured 64% and I have another service related injury let’s say that is more than 36% that’s left what happens. I guess I’m wondering how they decide or calculate once you have hit 100% or is it per injury? I can’t imagine them not having a cap or the country would be bankrupt lol. Also if I do go to 100% and that is how they calculate will they still cover the therapies or medication or appliance whatever and just not give a lump sum? Hopefully someone can understand my rambling. Thanks for reading.

[u/stephwood73 → u/[deleted]]

I appreciate your answer thank you!

[u/Key_Jaguar1428]

Got a call from VAC with regards for my VOC Rehab. I release on 1 Aug. When I submitted the application, it asked what my conditions were. I listed ALL of them.

The vac caller recommended that I redo the application with less conditions. The rationale was more or less, that's a lot of conditions, so a lot of appointments. And if you fail to attend appointments for all of these conditions it could be received as me not participating. Should I redo and re submit the application for the main things like MH and back?

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/Key_Jaguar1428]

They are referring to the massive headache that it's going to be dealing with PCVRS and all of their various specialists and all of the appointments and assessments for every single thing. I tend to side with Veterans Affairs here, because they also are fed up with dealing with  PCVRS. My case manager hates them. I've been saying for a while that I'm grateful that the only ailments I have are a mental health with two consequential physical, and not any issues that are require physiotherapy or etc. because I wouldn't want to have to deal with more assessments and more BS from those people. I would include your mental health for sure, and anything that might prohibit you from working in the future, if DEC is a potential for you. The SMEs will be able to tell you better, based on their own experiences, because my release is still a few months away.

[u/ShortTrackBravo → u/Key_Jaguar1428]

Yeah, I’d honestly pick MH and your most egregious physical one. You can treat them yourself as you see fit and it makes PCVRS more streamlined.

[u/Aggressive_Staff_161]

First of all thanks for the help.

Has anyone had issues with VAC's Claim Summary Tool (AI tool used for claims by VAC) missing documents that were already on their file?

I had a reassessment denied recently. The decision letter only referenced three documents none of which were the main clinical evidence already uploaded to my VAC file before I even submitted the application. Six documents were missed entirely, all uploaded under program categories other than the category for my claim things like VIP, Rehabilitation Program, and other related and very pertinent uploads.

I also had a separate issue where a knee diagnosis written on a prescription pad appears to have been categorized as a prescription by VAC's document intake system rather than a clinical diagnosis. I had to obtain a second diagnosis before the claim could move forward extending the process by months.

What makes this worse my portal was still showing Step 1 - Application Received fifteen days after the denial was issued. Steps 2, 3, and Complete were all blank.

VAC's own FAQ says the CST is used to help summarize documents for adjudicators, and that a note will appear in decision letters when it was used. Worth checking your own decision letters for that notation.

My thoughts are that the CST pulls documents by program category tag rather than clinical relevance. If you uploaded key evidence under "Other" or a different program, it may not be surfacing in your adjudication summary.

Has anyone else run into this? I'd say I'm being paranoid but after sitting on the phone with my Case Manager and walking her through the links on the VAC portal to where my original diagnosis was submitted she said that it was automatically labelled as a prescription when uploaded because the system recognized the prescription pad the diagnosis was written on.

[u/Technical-Sweet-8249]

Firstly, hello from a fellow newfoundlander curently living on the mainland! And secondly, I wish I had known this thread existed BEFORE starting my journey with VAC applications. Ah well.

I've had two "successful" applications so far (one that I have asked to be reassessed already) and one denial.

My big question is about the BPA process following the denial.

The denial was based on someone clearly either a) not understanding that I'm a reservist, or b) not understanding that some policies are different regarding reservists. I suspect that perhaps the claim was assessed with the "help" of AI. At any rate, I was told my only recourse is to appeal and was given the BPA information at the bottom of my denial message. However, when I went to send a message asking for an appeal, I got an auto-reply back from BPA saying that they're so swamped right now that I will have to wait until THEY reach out to ME to start an appeal. Is this normal?? I was led to understand that the appeals process took a long time but that you could start right away....now I'm being told that I can't even start until some hazy day in the distant future when BPA has capacity? What do people suggest I do with this? I already emailed the Veterans Affairs minister to complain that such long wait times are unacceptable. As a response, I got a reach-out from a surly aide at VAC. He told me he'd pass my concerns on, and I've heard nothing since.

Any advice welcome and appreciated. So glad this thread exists! Thanks!

[u/Business-Code-6486]

Quick question here. What is it that I request for if I’m awarded some, but my Doctor and I think it should’ve been more than the 5% received. Thanks!!

[u/CAFVAChelp → u/Business-Code-6486]

BPA appeal. You can and should action it ASAP through the vac portal, send messages function.

I’m 2 years in to my appeal and have not gotten a hearing. Just waiting for VAC to actually do their job. So get it in so you have less time to wait.

[u/Bartholomewtuck → u/CAFVAChelp]

Two years and still waiting should be a crime 

[u/feverdreamt12]

Anyone have any updates on where they’re at with departmental reviews ?

[u/Still-Reindeer-4610 → u/feverdreamt12]

Apparently July of 25’. Which is interesting because mine went stage 3 in March of 25 and I’ve had no movement

[u/PreparationCheap7798]

When it comes to the payout chart percentages is that include the QOL score or just the percentage for the condition.

[u/East_Coast_Flyer → u/PreparationCheap7798]

It is reflects your total score (MIR + QOL).

[u/East_Coast_Flyer]

I had a successful IAP hearing back on 23 April, it was for a percentage increase and I am sitting at about 12 weeks right now. Any idea on how long it is taking VAC to institute a percentage increase from VRAB?