📚 Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What is Vet-Rate.org?

Vet-Rate.org is a free, comprehensive VA disability claims command center built by a service-disabled veteran. It provides:

• 748 validated VA disabilities - Official rating criteria from 38 CFR Parts 3 & 4 (eCFR validated Jan 2026)
• 39 professional-grade tools - Everything others charge $10K+ for, completely free
• 500+ secondary conditions - Discover medically-recognized linked conditions with probability ratings
• 150+ VA glossary terms - Comprehensive jargon decoder for VA terminology
• AI-powered analysis - C-File analyzer, Decision decoder, Nexus builder (optional, privacy-first)
• C&P exam simulator - Practice with DBQ-aligned questions before your exam
• Forms assistance - Auto-Scribe PDF filling for 16+ VA forms
• Evidence building suite - Nexus Builder, Witness Bench, Symptom Logger, Blue Button X-Ray
• Quality control tools - Red Team, Risk Assessment, Consistency Engine, War Game

Is Vet-Rate.org affiliated with the VA?

No. Vet-Rate.org is an independent educational resource created by a service-disabled veteran. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Is Vet-Rate.org free?

Yes, 100% free. No subscriptions, no premium features, no hidden costs, no "30% of your backpay" fees. What others charge $10,000+ for in services, we provide free forever. Built by a veteran for veterans.

Do I need to create an account?

No. Vet-Rate.org requires no registration or login. Your data is stored locally in your browser, and you maintain complete control.

Privacy & Security

Is my data safe?

Yes. Your data is stored only in your browser's local storage. It never leaves your device and is never transmitted to any server. We have zero ability to see or access your information.

Don't trust - verify: Open your browser's DevTools (F12) → Network tab and watch as you use the app. Aside from privacy-respecting GoatCounter analytics pings (aggregate page views — no personal data), you'll see none of your information transmitted. All document processing is 100% client-side with no backend servers.

Do you collect any data?

We collect no personal data. The only analytics is GoatCounter — a privacy-respecting, cookieless tool that counts aggregate page views:

• Privacy-respecting GoatCounter analytics only — aggregate page views, referrer, and country-level location, with no cookies, no personal identifiers, and no cross-site tracking
• No advertising trackers or fingerprinting
• No cookies (except essential local/session storage)
• No personal information
• No account data

What happens if I clear my browser data?

Your Vet-Rate.org data will be deleted. Always backup your data before clearing browser storage using the export features in each tool.

Can I use this on multiple devices?

Yes, but data doesn't sync automatically. You'll need to export data from one device and import it on another using the built-in export/import features.

Is the code open source?

Yes. The code is available on GitHub for full transparency. You can audit the code yourself or use browser DevTools to verify no data is transmitted.

Features & Tools

What tools are available?

Vet-Rate.org includes 39 professional-grade tools organized into 6 categories:

• 📊 Calculate Your Rating (5 tools): Tactical Calculator, Million Dollar Dashboard, What-If Sandbox, Retro Pay Hunter, Time Machine
• 🔍 Discover Your Claims (6 tools): Secondary Scout, C&P Simulator, Pathfinder, MOS Hazard Matcher, PACT Act Navigator, Web of Conditions
• 📋 Build Your Evidence (10 tools): C-File Analyzer, Blue Button X-Ray, PDF Evidence Finder, Witness Bench, Nexus Builder, Forms Helper, Symptom Logger, Somatic Target, Evidence Timeline, FOIA Keysmith
• ✅ Quality Control (8 tools): Red Team, War Game, Decision Decoder, Denials Decoder, Shark Radar, Consistency Engine, Evidence Gap Finder, Risk Assessment
• 💰 Maximize Your Rating (4 tools): TDIU Builder, State Benefit Hunter, The Tribunal, Legislative Watchdog
• 🤝 Support & Resources (6 tools): VSO Finder, The Bunker, Cloud Sync, My Packet, VA Resources Hub, Field Manual

How accurate is the disability rating information?

All disability ratings are sourced directly from the official 38 CFR Parts 3 & 4 (Code of Federal Regulations). The database contains 748 validated conditions with official diagnostic codes and rating criteria, verified against the eCFR as of January 2026.

Can you help me file my claim?

No. Vet-Rate.org is an educational tool that helps you understand the process and prepare documentation. For direct claims assistance, contact:

• A Veterans Service Organization (VSO)
• An accredited claims agent
• VA directly at 1-800-827-1000

Technical Support

Which browsers are supported?

Vet-Rate.org works on all modern browsers:

• Chrome / Edge (recommended)
• Firefox
• Safari
• Brave

Can I use this on mobile?

Yes. Vet-Rate.org is fully responsive and works on phones and tablets. However, some features work best on larger screens.

I found a bug. How do I report it?

1. Click "🐛 Bug Squasher" in the footer
2. Describe the issue with as much detail as possible
3. Include what you were doing when the bug occurred
4. Submit the report

How do I request a feature?

Use the "Contact Us" form in the footer and describe the feature you'd like to see. We review all suggestions!

VA API Integration (Optional)

What is the VA.gov API integration?

An optional feature that allows veterans to securely connect their VA.gov account to access personalized data like claims status and service history directly in the app.

Is the VA API integration secure?

Yes. It uses OAuth 2.0 with PKCE (Proof Key for Code Exchange), the industry standard for secure authentication. No passwords or client secrets are stored.

Is VA API integration required?

No. All core features work without VA.gov connection. The API integration is completely optional for enhanced functionality.

Contact & Support

How do I contact you?

• In-App: Click "Contact Us" in the footer
• Bugs: Use the "Bug Squasher" tool
• Email: Anth@StructuredForGrowth.com
• Support Page: vet-rate.org/support.html

What can you help with?

How long until I get a response?

We're a small team (one developer!), so please allow 2-3 business days. Bug reports are prioritized.

Legal & Disclaimer

Is this medical or legal advice?

No. Vet-Rate.org provides educational information only. Always consult qualified professionals for medical, legal, or financial advice.

What are the terms of service?

By using Vet-Rate.org, you agree to use it for educational purposes only. See the Terms of Service link in the app footer for full details.

Who built this?

Vet-Rate.org was built by Anthony Johnson, a service-disabled veteran who understands the challenges of navigating the VA claims process firsthand. This platform represents 7,200+ hours of professional development (worth $500K+ at market rates) given to the veteran community for free.

Still have questions?

Contact us: Use the in-app Contact Us form or email Anth@StructuredForGrowth.com