Vets Claims & Appeals Ofc 1

Georgia Department of Revenue•Decatur, IL

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Under supervision, the Veterans Claims and Appeals Officer 1 represents veterans, dependents, and survivors during the VA benefits appeals process. This specialized position advocates for claimants whose initial applications for VA benefits have been denied or under-awarded, ensuring that every appellant receives a fair and thorough review. The role requires expert knowledge of VA law and regulations, appellate procedures, and familiarity with medical evidence, military service records, and case law impacting veteran's claims. The Veteran Claims and Appeals Officer1 is responsible for managing and presenting appeals at various stages of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs adjudication process, including reviews by the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA), and potentially higher-level courts or administrative panels. Duties include reviewing denied claims, analyzing case files, gathering and interpreting supporting documentation (e.g., service records, medical evidence), and preparing legal arguments to support the veteran's position. The officer will draft formal written briefs, represent clients during virtual and in-person hearings, and provide guidance on the appeals timeline and procedural requirements. This role also involves staying current on changes to VA laws, Title 38 of the U.S. Code, relevant precedent decisions, and emerging issues in veteran's law. The Appeals Officer will collaborate closely with attorneys, medical professionals, and federal and state agency representatives to develop compelling appeals on behalf of the veteran.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
Two (2) years of professional job-related experience.
Military veteran status or extensive professional experience working with military or veteran populations.
Knowledge of VA regulations and benefits processes.
Strong understanding of medical conditions related to military service.
Ability and the patience to read, review, analyze and research a veterans entire file combined with critical thinking and problem solving.
Requires the collaboration with various agencies and individuals (VA partners and other VSO organizations, etc.) regarding the proper interpretation and application of the 38 CFR.
The appeals position requires the individual to learn and adhere to proper Board practices and professional procedures.
Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems.
Ability to work independently and manage a caseload effectively.
Must have a valid driver's license.
Able to successfully complete a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NAC-I) and fingerprints to obtain a required Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Must be able to attend Annual Training.
Must pass the Training Responsibility Involvement Preparation of Claims Test. (TRIP).

Nice To Haves

Prior state or federal VA claims/appeals experience desired.
Military retiree or military veteran.

Responsibilities

Represents veterans, dependents, and survivors during the VA benefits appeals process.
Advocates for claimants whose initial applications for VA benefits have been denied or under-awarded.
Manages and presents appeals at various stages of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs adjudication process.
Reviews denied claims.
Analyzes case files.
Gathers and interprets supporting documentation (e.g., service records, medical evidence).
Prepares legal arguments to support the veteran's position.
Drafts formal written briefs.
Represents clients during virtual and in-person hearings.
Provides guidance on the appeals timeline and procedural requirements.
Stays current on changes to VA laws, Title 38 of the U.S. Code, relevant precedent decisions, and emerging issues in veteran's law.
Collaborates closely with attorneys, medical professionals, and federal and state agency representatives to develop compelling appeals.