Navigation Veteran Benefits You Might Not Know About | Max Goldfarb
Did you know there might be life-changing benefits and financial advantages you’re missing out on simply because you never asked, “What am I entitled to as a veteran?”
In this episode of Cut to the Chase: Podcast, Gregg is joined by a very special guest—his father, Max Goldfarb. A Korean War veteran, practicing attorney of 67 years, and the self-proclaimed “King of Collection” in Florida, Max shares his journey navigating VA benefits, disability ratings, and advocating for himself and other vets.
From his frontline experiences during the Korean War to receiving full VA disability and benefits, Max offers helpful advice for veterans who may not be aware of the support they’re entitled to.
Whether you’re a veteran, have one in your family, or just love a story filled with wisdom, resilience, and humor, this episode is for you.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
– Why so many veterans, especially from older wars, are unaware of their full VA benefits
– Max’s journey from Korean War frontlines to discovering and successfully claiming disability ratings (PTSD, tinnitus, and physical injury)
– How to navigate application forms, administrative appeals, and advocate-driven compensation increases
– Why you need legal advocates to boost disability ratings and win appeals, especially when records have been lost or destroyed
– Using disability status for property tax relief in Florida—step-by-step from partial to full exemption
– The VA hospital experience: Debunking myths with real positive reporting
– Funeral & Memorial Benefits: What families should know
– Honor Flight: A special resource for veterans to visit D.C. war memorials (and why you should apply!)
– Practical tips for lawyers advising veteran clients: Filing VA claims, documenting experiences, and finding advocacy support
Key Takeaways:
– Don’t Assume Veterans Know Their Rights: Many older veterans, especially from earlier wars, aren’t aware of the full spectrum of benefits available. Initiate the conversation.
– Encourage Clients to Apply (or Appeal): Disability claims can be filed (and retroactively increased) decades after discharge, even if service records have been lost.
– Use Advocates: Connect clients with dedicated veteran’s advocates to maximize their claims—these professionals can make or break a complex case.
– Stay Resourceful: If crucial documentation is missing, alternative evidence (doctor’s letters, witness statements) can still win the day.
– Leverage Local Laws: Understand and utilize state-specific tax exemptions and statutory advantages for disabled veterans.
– Stay in Touch With Real-World Impact: Inform clients about programs like Honor Flight and funeral benefits—they’re deeply meaningful and legally relevant.
– Make Your Firm Veteran-Friendly: Share resources (like VA forms and advocate contacts) directly on your website or in client communications. Familiarize yourself with VA Form 21-526EZ for disability compensation and keep a list of trusted VA advocates for client referrals.
Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t miss our next deep dive on Cut to The Chase: Podcast with Gregg Goldfarb!
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Resources:
– VA Disability Claim Form 21-526EZ: https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-21-526ez
– Honor Flight South Florida: https://www.honorflightsouthflorida.org
Max Goldfarb’s Law Office: 19 West Flagler Street, Room 802, Miami, FL
Phone: 305-371-2538
This episode was produced and brought to you by Reignite Media.
