Question:

Mr. Jim,
How are you sir? My name is Billy T and I'm so confused about my rating. I just currently was awarded TDIU for PTSD. My award letter mentioned the Chapter 35 educational benefits for my dependents but it didn't mention CHAMPVA. My attorney sent me a form to fill out concerning CHAMPVA. It was an application for my dependents, and I immediately filled it out and returned the application to him. My question is are my dependents and I eligible for CHAMPVA? I can't seem to get a clear answer as I can never reach my attorney and his assistant seems confused on the matter. It would be a blessing if you could clear this up for me. I read your blogs responding to Veterans questions and I must say that you seem really knowledgable. Thank you for taking out the time to read this email and thank you for all you do for Veterans. God bless and I hope to hear back from you soon.

Jim's Reply:

The TDIU benefit is a 100% benefit and,  when you're notified that your dependents are eligible for Chapter 35 DEA,  that's VA language telling you that your TDIU rating is permanent. Once you have a 100% P & T rating you are eligible for on base privileges (commissary, PX, etc.) the Chapter 35 DEA benefit and CHAMPVA. VA does a very poor job of telling us all the details and they seem to make it as secretive as possible. In any case, your dependents are now cared for.