Alabama Department of Veteran's Affairs Review

Very nice people. Professional staff and a lot of great information. I recommend this place.

Went to get help to apply for VA disability compensation this past February. After signing in, I was sent over to Mr. Thompson. This person was extremely rude, looked at my application, threw my paperwork in his desk and asked me to walk out his office. He asked Ms. Adams to take care of me. Fast forward today, I called to follow up on my application and was greeted by none other than Mr. Thompson again. Not surprisingly, this same gentlemen was extremely rude, didn't even let me finish my statements saying that I need to make an appointment.

Mr. Thompson, if you can't work with customers, I strongly suggest you find another career that doesn't deal working with people. You are serving Veterans. I am surprised that this gentleman is still employed with the Dept. of VA due to his lack of respect and touch.

If you are seeking help with anything VA related, stay away and seek help with other groups. I will escalate Mr. Thompson's attitude with the Dept. of VA.

I am a Vet and have been receiving services from this VA Vocational Rehab for 3 years. I've had a great experience with this organization. Talking with many who've used the program, and sending many vets there for services, I have a couple of observations as to why people feel like they haven't been helped.

1. Expectations - VOC Rehab is limited to what they can do for individuals based on the rules, regulations, and guidelines set by the government they have to work within.

2. Benefits - The benefits one receives are based on a number of factors and not everyone is going to receive the same level of benefits. Set your expectations that they will help you receive whatever level of benefits you qualify for when you meet with them and they assess your personal situation.

3. Organization - Make sure you are at the right VA location to get your benefits processed. VOC Rehab, in my experience, is for helping Vets to reestablish themselves in the civilian workforce. They have many programs to do this. For all other VA benefits (medical, filing a claim, post 9-11 GI Bill, family benefits, etc.) you need to go to the Washington Ave office.

I am very disappointed in that I was judged before I even had a face to face appointment. I will be seeking help but not here.