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When Neil Anderson left the Navy in 2016, he didn’t think much about VA benefits. His time in service had been cut short after struggles with his mental health, and he tried to move forward without filing a claim.
“I told myself I didn’t deserve any benefits. I just kind of believed that lie,” he said.
But over the next few years, encouragement from fellow veterans made him reconsider.
“Other vets kept telling me, ‘You need to try to get your disability. You served. You got an honorable discharge. It doesn’t matter how long you served—you earned it,” he said.
Now, 14 months after becoming an Elite Member, Anderson has the 100% VA disability rating he deserves.
Early Attempts on His Own
Neil first filed for PTSD and depression on his own in 2023. That claim was approved at 70%, which surprised him.
Encouraged, he went back to try for an increase through a VSO. But that claim was denied.
Neil recalls why it didn’t work: There was no real strategy.
“They just wanted to file everything at once—kind of throw it all at the wall and see what sticks,” he said, “but nothing sticks that way.”
Finding VA Claims Insider
Despite his VA claim denial, Neil knew he was likely still underrated. He spent three months researching his options when he discovered the VA Claims Insider Elite Program.
After joining the Elite Program in 2024, he was paired with Veteran Coach Andrew Porter, who supported Neil in mapping out a clear, step-by-step plan—all while providing him with encouragement along the way.
“As long as you’re willing to keep fighting,” Porter told Neil, “I’ll be here to fight with you.”
From the very first conversation, the strategic guidance from Neil’s Veteran Coach proved invaluable and gave Neil the knowledge and expertise he needed to navigate the claims process with confidence.
Going From 70% to 100% VA Disability
Neil committed to the strategy he developed with his coach. Though the process took patience, Neil stuck with the plan.
- In March 2025, Neil’s VA rating increased from 70% to 90% after his claim for headaches was approved.
- In July 2025, his claim for sleep apnea—previously denied—was granted with the addition of strong medical evidence.
With his approval for sleep apnea, Neil reached 100% permanent and total VA disability.
“There wasn’t one thing [my Veteran Coach] told me that was wrong. I trusted our step-by-step strategy, and it worked.”
Encouragement for Other Veterans
Neil credits God for his honorable discharge and for giving him the strength to pursue his benefits. When asked if he had any advice for other veterans considering a VA rating increase, he thought for a moment before responding:
“Don’t give up. And don’t be afraid to ask for support from people who know the system. I never thought I’d get a 100% VA rating,” he said, “but here I am.”
For Neil, the outcome isn’t just about his 100% VA rating and all the benefits that come with it. It means peace of mind for his family and real financial relief.
“My experience with VA Claims Insider was incredible,” Neil said. “Now I can help my wife get VA healthcare and get rid of $40,000 in student loan debt.”
Looking back on the journey, Neil says the persistence was well worth it.
“I don’t think there’s a veteran out there that couldn’t benefit from this program. It was an amazing experience. At the end of the day, I’d do it all over again.”
—US Navy Veteran Neil Anderson
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Neil’s journey shows that persistence, strategy, and the right evidence can make all the difference. If you’re a veteran looking to increase your VA rating, our veteran coaches are ready to support YOU!
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Author
Eric Webb
Eric has written and worked in the field of Veterans Disability since 2020 and enjoys writing educational content for the veteran population. His prior work has been published in the Official Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). He holds a Degree in Health and Exercise Science.
