Many veterans file VA disability claims believing the process is straightforward—only to be denied, underrated, or stuck in years of appeals. In this episode, Ryan Guina of The Military Wallet sits down with Chad Armstrong of ACE Veteran Consulting to unpack why so many VA disability claims fail and what veterans can do differently.

Chad shares his personal journey from National Guard service and combat deployments to a complex medical board, medical retirement, and ultimately helping other veterans navigate the VA system. Together, they break down the real rules behind VA ratings, the importance of CFR Title 38 language, medical evidence, nexus letters, lay statements, and why “throwing everything at the wall” often backfires.

If you’re filing a VA disability claim—or thinking about it—this episode explains what the VA is actually looking for, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to ethically and effectively present your case.

Whether you’re separating, medically retiring, or helping another veteran, this is an essential listen.

⏱️ Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction
Ryan Guina introduces the show and guest Chad Armstrong, VA disability consultant.

00:38 – Chad’s Military Background
From construction work to the National Guard, airborne school, and contracting in Iraq.

02:50 – Life as AGR (Active Guard Reserve)
Benefits, stability, and why AGR differs from active duty.

03:54 – Injuries, Surgeries, and Burnout
Six surgeries, combat wear-and-tear, and the physical toll of service.

05:47 – Entering the Medical Board Process
Why AGR med boards are different—and harder—than active duty cases.

07:50 – Being Sidelined During Med Board
Loss of mission, identity struggles, and mental health impact.

11:08 – Medical Board Findings & Appeals
How DOD ratings work, appeals, lawyers, and combat-related determinations.

14:28 – Chad’s First VA Claim Mistakes
Why his initial VA claim failed—and what he didn’t know at the time.

16:06 – VA Claims Are a Test (CFR Title 38 Explained)
How the VA actually grades claims and why language matters.

18:41 – Why Claims Get Denied
Missing documentation, poor wording, and overwhelmed VA raters.

21:30 – Ethics of VA Disability Claims
Why lying or exaggerating backfires—and hurts everyone.

22:25 – The 3 Requirements for a Successful VA Claim
Service connection, current diagnosis, and a medical nexus.

23:57 – Lay Statements & Real-Life Impact
How to explain limitations beyond medical jargon.

26:15 – Transitioning Out & Financial Reality
VA compensation, income planning, and early retirement decisions.

32:36 – CRDP vs. CRSC Explained
Key differences and who qualifies.

35:17 – Medical Retirement Pay vs. VA Pay
How offsets work and why most veterans must choose one.

39:23 – Why Military & VA Ratings Differ
Readiness vs. total disability explained.

41:49 – Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC)
How combat injuries can unlock both VA and military pay.

44:38 – Financial Impact of CRSC
Using compensation to build long-term financial stability.

45:47 – Final Advice for Veterans Filing Claims
Why education, preparation, and patience matter most.

46:04 – Closing Thoughts