October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part 11

CHAPTER 2. TARGET PROCESSING

CONTENTS

PARAGRAPH PAGE

Processing Claims for Chapter 31 Benefits Using the Target System 2-1

Target Processing Requirements. 2-1

Common Target Commands and Functions Which May Be Used for Chapter 31
2-1

General Target Processing Procedures Apply to Chapter
31\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 2-1

Specific Target Screen Completion Requirements for Chapter 31
Application Processing\... 2-3

Access to 331, 332, and 333
Screens\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...
2-3

Order of Screen
Access\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....
2-3

Display of Previously Entered
Data\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...
2-3

GED (Generate Eligibility
Determination)\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....
2-3

Data Entry on the 331
Screen\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....
2-4

Data Entry on the 332
Screen\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....
2-7

Data Entry on the 333
Screen\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....
2-10

Independent Update
Transactions\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....
2-13

Data Entry on the 408 Disallowance
Screen\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 2-13

CAUT
Processing\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...
2-14

2-i

October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part II

CHAPTER 2. TARGET PROCESSING

2.01 PROCESSING CLAIMS FOR CHAPTER 31 BENEFITS USING THE TARGET SYSTEM

a\. Target Processing Requirements. When an application for chapter 31
benefits is filed, the applicant\'s case must be evaluated to determine
whether basic entitlement to these benefits exists. A pending issue will
be established under end product 295 in the PIF (pending issue file)
using CEST processing for original claims and for reapplicants with
master record type S or J. PEST processing will be used for reapplicants
with master record types E and I. Following completion of the applicable
300 or 400 series screens and authorization using the 501 screen, the
case will be finally disposed resulting in the generation of a basic
eligibility determination or disallowance printout. If no basic
eligibility determination is required, but update of an existing master
record is necessary, the input screens identified in this chapter may be
accessed us­ing the commands CDAT and CADJ to modify the data. Master
Record type A will require update.

b\. Common Target Commands and Functions Which May Be Used for Chapter
31. The following Target commands and functions which are currently used
by other systems will be used in chapter 31 application processing:

\(1\) CEST (Claims Establishment). An original pending issue will be
established in the PIF (pending issue file) when either no chapter 31
master record exists or when the master record type is S or J. A pending
issue under end product 295 must be established before an application
allowance or disallowance may be processed.

\(2\) PEST (Pending Issue Establishment). This command is used to
establish a pending issue on the PIF when a type A, E, or I chapter 31
master record exists.

\(3\) CDEV (Claims Development). This command accesses screens to
generate letters requesting specific types of evidence to support a
claim. Currently, the 201, 202, 204, 205, and 207 development screens
are available for chapter 31 cases.

\(4\) CDAT (Claims Data Entry). This command allows the operator to
enter all the data required to determine eligibility and entitlement to
chapter 31 benefits. The CDAT command may be used to access 300-level
screens as well as all those screens from a lower level. For example, an
adjudicator using the command CDAT may access appropriate 200 or 300
series screens but cannot access the screen 408 (Chapter 31 Non-Entry
Into Training). The CDAT command may also be used to update existing
master record entries found in any enterable field on the 331, 332, and
333 screens. An update would be generated whenever the Application field
on these screens was left blank.

\(5\) CADJ (Claims Adjudication). This command allows the operator to
enter all 200, 300, and 400 level screens appropriate for chapter 31
benefits. It allows for chapter 31 data entry for either basic
eligibility determinations or disallowances. The CADJ command may be
used to update master record fields in the same manner as the CDAT
command.

\(6\) GAP (Generate and Print). This command is used when benefits are
disallowed. GAP directs the Target System to generate and print
disallowance data based upon entries made on the supporting screens. For
example, GAP is entered in the Next Screen field of the 408 screen to
generate a disallowance of a chapter 31 claim. A favorable chapter 31
eligibility determination, which will be used to refer claimants to the
VR&C Division, is generated via the new GED (Generate Eligi­bility
Determination) function.

\(7\) CAUT (Claims Authorization). Basic eligibility determinations and
disallowances prepared under CDAT or CADJ that have been GED\'D or
GAP\'D are authorized or canceled using this command. This is the last
action performed by the operator before the basic eligibility
determination or disallowance transaction is sent for processing.

\(8\) CORR (Corrections). Chapter 31 master record corrections may be
made using Target processing. The number of fields which can be
corrected on the Targeted System, however, is limited.

c\. General Target Processing Procedures Apply to Chapter 31. Many
claims processing steps, commands and screens used for other benefit
programs are also used for chapter 31:

2-1

M28-2, Part 11 October 29, 1985

+--------------------+-------------------+----------------------------+
| Claims Processing  | Commands          | Screens Used               |
|                    |                   |                            |
| Steps              | Used              |                            |
+--------------------+-------------------+----------------------------+

\(1\) Claim Establishment CEST/PEST Ready Screen

BIRLS Data Record CDAT 101 BIRLS Data

Pending EPC Set Up CADJ 102 Claim Establish or

Claimant\'s Address 103 Pending Issue

Entered\* Control

Date of Claim Recorded Establish

Routed to Next Step S99 Disposition

> Also accessed are:
>
> P0I
>
> S02
>
> \(2\) Claims Development CDEV Ready Screen
>
> and Request for Necessary 200 Development
>
> Evidence Screen Selection
>
> 201 3101 Data Selection
>
> 202 Request for
>
> Military/Medical
>
> Data
>
> 204 Dependency Data
>
> 205 Education
>
> 207 Vocational
>
> Rehabilitation and
>
> Counseling
>
> Also accessed are:
>
> S02
>
> S99

3.  Data Entry/ CDAT/CADJ Ready Screen

Adjudicative Action 200 Series Screens

Enter Basic Eligibility 300 Series Screens

and Rating Data 400 Series Screens

Enter Disallowance Data Also accessed:

GED/GAP S02

S99

\(4\) Authorization CAUT Ready Screen

501 Authorization

S99

Also accessed:

S02

103 if establishing

new issue

\*NOTE.\' The claimant\'s address may be entered on the 102 screen.
Otherwise, pay transactions are used to update and change addresses.

October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part 11

2.02 SPECIFIC TARGET SCREEN COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS FOR CHAPTER 31
APPLICATION PROCESSING

Application processing involves four screens (331, 332, 333, and 408)
which are unique to chapter 31. The 331, 332, and 333 screens are used
to enter basic, eligibility/entitlement, training history, and rating
data necessary to support a basic eligibility determination. These
screens may be accessed using either the CDAT or CADJ command. The 408
screen is used to enter the reason for disallowing a claim for chapter
31 benefits. This screen may only be accessed by Adjudicators under the
CADJ command. All determinations must be authorized using CAUT
processing before a transaction will be generated. The Target System
will automatically create an open applicant case status for the VR&C
Division upon acceptance of the basic eligibility determination or
disallowance transaction. Disallowance letters will not be generated by
the Target System at this time; these letters must be produced locally.

Access to 331, 332, and 333 Screens. The 331, 332, and 333 screens may
be accessed from the Ready Screen or from a 200-, 300-, or 400-series
screen under the CDAT or CADJ command. This is accomplished by entering
the desired number in the Screen Number or NEXT SCREEN field. The
following list specifies the screens from which an operator may obtain
these screens:

Ready Screen

200 Development Screen Selection

300 Data Entry Screen Selection

331 Chapter 31 Basic and Eligibility Data

332 Other Eligibility/Training History

333 Chapter 31 Rating Data

400 Adjudication Screen Selection

408 Chapter 31 Non-Entry Into Training

b\. Order of Screen Access. Generally, the 331, 332, and 333 screens may
be accessed in any order. To generate a transaction against a converted
case (the M32 screen shows the Conversion Indicator = 1), however, the
Target System will automatically default to the 333 screen first.

c\. Display of Previously Entered Data. Following successful access, the
selected screen is displayed with basic payee in­formation (file number,
end product and stub name). If the screen has been previously accessed
and data entered, it will appear with the previously entered data
displayed. Any fields not displayed from the PIF will be displayed from
the master record if the master record contains entries in those fields.

d\. GED (Generate Eligibility Determination). The GED command is similar
to GAP and has been developed for chapter 31 processing. Once all
necessary data entries have been made on the 331, 332, and 333 screens
for allowance proc­essing, the operator will enter GED in the NEXT SCREEN
field prior to pressing the Enter key. GED may also be entered in the
SCREEN NUMBER field on the Ready screen or in the NEXT SCREEN area on
the 300 or 400 screen. This will cause the generation of a basic
eligibility determination printout combining selected data from the PIF
and the master record. If the operator has CAUT authority, he or she may
enter \"501\" in the NEXT SCREEN field. This action will assume GED and
also produce the eligibility determination printout. Following
authorization, this printout will be used to refer the claim to the VR&C
Division.

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M28-2, Part 11 October 29, 1985

e\. Data Entry on the 331 Screen

\*NOTE.- Abbreviations under Field Entry or Display are \"A\"=
alphabetic; \"N\" = numeric,- and \"AN\" = alphanumeric.

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Application 1A Enter \"Y\" in this field to indicate the screen is being
accessed

> for application processing purposes or any other time a basic
> eligibility determination is required. This field must be left blank
> or set to blank to update an existing master record.

Education Level 2N Required entry for original claims. Enter the highest

at Application level of education, expressed in years, which the
claimant

> attained by the time of application for chapter 31 benefits. The
> entries range from \"00\" to \"16\" for education through a college
> degree; \"17\" to indicate graduate work; and \"20\" if the level of
> education is unknown. For a more complete breakdown of the possible
> entries, see the description for this field found in subparagraph (7)
> below.

Service-Connected 3N Enter in increments of 10 the total
service-connected Combined Degree percentage of disability at the time
of application.

at Application The Target System will right-justify and zero-fill

entries less than 100.

Home Phone 14AN Complete this field to show the claimant\'s home phone,

to include the area code. Entry must be in one of two for-

mats. (XXX) XXXXXXX or (XXX) XXX-XXXX.

Birth Date 10N Required entry for original claims and initial proc-

essing of converted records. Enter the claimant\'s

date of birth in the standard date format with the

year given as four digits; e.g., 12-22-1943, 12221943;

5-3-1959, 05031959.

Work Phone 14AN Enter the claimant\'s business or daytime phone

number if other than the home phone number. Entry

must be in one of two formats: (XXX) XXXXXXX

or (XXX) XXX-XXXX.

Sex 1A Enter \"M\" or \"F\" to show the veteran\'s sex. Re-

quire entry for original claims.

Social Security 11N Enter the veteran\'s Social Security Number, with or

Number without dashes. Required entry for original claims

and for initial processing of converted records.

2-4

October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part 11

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Entry On Duty 10N Enter the date of entry on active duty. During initial

> creation of a master record, the first two lines may contain BIRLS
> service dates. Up to four entries can be made, including the lines in
> which the BIRLS service dates occur. During subsequent processing
> where an MR already exists or for redisplay from the PIF, the lines
> will be displayed in reverse chronological order (most recent EOD
> first). Entries are in the standard date format with a four-digit
> year.

Release From 10N Enter the date of release from active duty which

Active Duty corresponds to the EOD next to it. Entries are in the

standard date format with a four-digit year.

Inservice 1A Enter a \"Y\" if the claimant is currently on duty. An EOD

date, but no RAD date, must be entered on the line in which a

\"Y\" is entered.

Prior VA Training 5N Enter the prior VA training for each of the benefit
types.

Months/Days) Entries must be in months and days, with leading zeros

> whenever an entry is less than 10. A hyphen may be used to separate
> months and days. Therefore, 9 months and 8 days would be either 0908
> or 09-08. If fractional entitlements are found, they must be converted
> to days:
>
> Fraction Days
>
> .00 01
>
> .25 08
>
> .50 16
>
> .75 24
>
> Since the system uses a 30-day month, no days entry may exceed 29.
> Days in excess of 29 will require an increase of the Months entry so
> that the Days entry is 29 or less. If no entitlement has been used
> under a particular benefit chapter, leave the field for that chapter
> blank. Do not enter all zeros. NOTE: Entry in this field requires
> completion of the 332 screen.

Total 5N Make no entry. This field is system-generated. This will

show total entitlement used under all benefit chapters.

Initial Rating 10N Enter in standard date format with four-digit year

Notification Date either (1) the date the veteran was notified of the

> disability rating granting initial compensation, or (2) the RAD if the
> veteran was inducted into chapter 31 while in service. No entry may be
> made if a \"Y\" has been entered in Inservice field.

2-5

M28-2, Part II October 29, 1985

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Creditable Chapter 31 5N Make no entry. This field is system-generated.
This shows

Entitlement the entitlement remaining, in months and fractions of a

month, from a basic 48 months of chapter 31 entitlement after

subtracting previously used entitlement.

Medical 20N Enter the exact beginning and ending dates established

Infeasibility by the rating board for the period during which a veteran
was

Period unable to pursue his or her vocational rehabilitation program.

> The beginning date must be no earlier than the entry in Initial Rating
> Notification Date (NOTE.- Enter the period even though it appears the
> period begins after the Termination Date. The Target System will
> review the dates entered and determine if the period is acceptable.)
> The entire period cannot overlap any entries made in the Deferral
> Period field or any award period. Dates entered must be in standard
> date format with four-digit year.

Temporary 1A Enter a Y\" to show that previous entitlement usage is
unknown Entitlement or needs clarification. Entries of known entitlement
usages

Indicator may be made under Prior VA Training even though this

> indicator is set. In addition, whenever this indicator is set, the
> Adjudicator should establish a local diary control to ensure later
> amendment of the record when complete prior entitlement usage is
> available. At that time, the adjudicator will reaccess this screen,
> enter the entitlement usage and erase the Temporary Entitlement
> Indicator.

Deferral Period 20N Enter the beginning and ending dates of any period
during

> which the VA determines the veteran was temporarily ineligible for the
> vocational rehabilitation program. This field may be used to record a
> second period of medical infeasibility. NOTE. If more than two periods
> are involved, the periods must be combined locally using Julian dates
> and the resultant period entered. This period may not begin earlier
> than the entry in Initial Rating Notification Date. (See the NOTE for
> Medical Infeasibility Period regarding Target System review of dates
> entered.) In addition, this period must not overlap either an entry in
> Medical Infeasibility or any award period. Dates entered must be in
> standard date format with four-digit year.

2-6

October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part 11

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Chapter 32/34 1AN Enter \"2\" if the veteran is currently eligible for

Eligibility chapter 32, \"4\" if eligible for chapter 34, \"N\" if

at Application not eligible for either benefit, or \"U\" if eligibility
is

> unknown. Current eligibility means the veteran is within his or her
> delimiting data and has remaining entitlement. NOTE.- Entry in this
> field requires completion of the 332 screen.

Eligibility 10N Make no entry. This field is system-generated. This
shows Termination Date the date after which the veteran is no longer
eligible for

chapter 31 benefits. If a claimant is still in service, however,

no termination date will be generated.

Chapter 35 1AN Enter \"5\" if the veteran is currently eligible for
chapter 35,

Eligibility \"N\" if no such eligibility exists, or \"U\" if eligibility
in unknown.

at Application Current eligibility means the individual has not yet
reached

> his or her delimiting date and has remaining entitlement. NOTE: Entry
> of 5 in this field requires completion of the 332 screen.

Next Screen 3AN Possible entries are 331, 332, 333, 408, 200, 300, 400,
501,

S99, GED, END, DEL, RES, and GAP. If no entry is made

and the Enter key is pressed, a selection screen will be displayed.

f\. Data Entry on the 332 Screen

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Application 1A This field is used to indicate whether processing in
support of

> an application for chapter 31 benefits or any other time an
> eligibility determination is required. Absence of an entry means the
> screen is being accessed to update an existing master record.

Delimiting Date 10N Enter the date on which the claimant\'s eligibility
for chapter

at Application for chapter 32 or 34 benefits expires. Use the standard
date

(Chapter 32/34) format with four-digit year. An entry is required if an
entry

of \"2\" or \"4\" was made in the Chapter 32/34 Eligibility at

Application field on the 331 screen.

2-7

M28-2, Part 11 October 29, 1985

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Delimiting Date 10N Enter the date on which the claimant\'s eligibility
for chapter

at Application 35 benefits expires. Use the standard date format with
four-

(Chapter 35) digit year. An entry is required if an entry of \"5\" was
made in

the Chapter 35 Eligibility at Application field on the 331 screen.

Remaining Entitlement 5N Enter in months and decimal quarters of a month
the remaining

at Application entitlement to chapter 32 or 34 benefits at the time of
application.

(Chapter 32/34) Entries may be in either MMFF or MM.FF format. An entry
is required if an entry of \"2\" or \"4\" was made in the Chapter 32/34

Eligibility at Application field on the 331 screen.

Remaining Entitlement 5N Enter in months and decimal quarters of a month
the remaining

at Application entitlement to chapter 35 benefits at the time of
application.

(Chapter 35) Entries may be in either MMFF or MM.FF format. An entry is

required if an entry of \"5\" was made in the Chapter 35 Eligibility

at Application field on the 331 screen.

NOTE.- Up to 5 entries may be made in each of the next six fields. At
least one entry is required if an entry was made in Prior VA Training on
the 331 screen.

Facility Name 20A Enter as completely as possible the name of the
training

> establishment attended while pursuing the course shown on the same
> line. For example, enter \"Univ. of Virginia\" rather than \"UVA.\"

Training Type 1A Enter the type of training for the course shown on the
same

> line. Acceptable entries and the meanings of those entries are as
> follows:
>
> A-Graduate
>
> B-Undergraduate
>
> C-Nondegree, college level
>
> D-Vocational or technical, post high school
>
> E-Other vocational or technical
>
> F-High school
>
> G-On-the-job
>
> H-On-farm/farm cooperative
>
> I-Special restorative training-(other than Chapter 31)
>
> J-Flight
>
> K-Apprenticeship
>
> L-Elementary school
>
> M-Special rehabilitation-nonvocational Chapter 31
>
> O-Special rehabilitation-vocational Chapter 31
>
> P-Federal unpaid OJT-Chapter 31
>
> X-Unknown

2-8

October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part II

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Course Name 15AN Enter in this field a general description of the course
pursued.

Abbreviate as little as possible.

Entitlement Used 5N Enter in months and decimal quarters of a month

> the entitlement used in the course on the same line. These entries
> will have to be computed manually unless the veteran has attended only
> one course previously and the record of entitlement used for that
> course is provided in the Target System.

Benefit Type 4AN Enter one of the three or four character abbreviations

> of the following benefit types:
>
> CH31- Chapter 31
>
> CH32- Chapter 32, exclusive of Section 903 of Public Law
>
> 96-342 cases
>
> CH33- Chapter 33 under Public Law 550, Korean Conflict
>
> CH34- Chapter 34
>
> CH35- Chapter 35
>
> 901- Section 901 of Public Law 96-342
>
> 903- Section 903 of Public Law 96-342
>
> WWII- World War II training under Public Law 346.

Training Status 1A Enter one of the following to show the veteran\'s
progress is

> the corresponding course:
>
> S-Satisfactory
>
> U-Unsatisfactory
>
> I-Currently in training (NOTE: An entry of \"I\" is valid only on the
> first line.)

Additional Training IN If the veteran has attended more than five
facilities or has

Over 5 been enrolled in more than five types of programs, indicate

> in this field the number of additional schools, programs, etc. For
> example, enter \"I\" if the veteran attended six facilities at the
> time of application for chapter 31 benefits. Enter \"9\" if the
> veteran attended fourteen or more facilities. This field is used to
> alert staff members to the possible need for review of the claims
> folder. To make an entry in this field, all five training history
> lines must contain entries.

Next Screen 3AN Enter 331, 332, 333, 408, 501, S99, GAP, GED, RES, DEL,

END, or any 200-, 300-, or 400- series menu screen.

2-9

M28-2, Part II October 29, 1985

g\. Date Entry on the 333 Screen

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Application 1A Enter a \"Y\" if applicant processing is required or if
an

eligibility determination is needed. Otherwise, leave blank.

S/C Cond (Service- 9AN Enter in the first four positions of the field
the four-digit

Connected Conditions- diagnostic core of each service-connected
condition shown

three occurrences) on the current rating. If more than three
service-connected

> conditions have been established, enter the three with the highest
> evaluations. At least one entry must be made in this field for all
> allowances of chapter 31 benefits.
>
> If an analogous code has been added to a diagnostic code to shown a
> related disability, the two codes will be entered on the same line
> with the primary diagnostic code listed first. A slash may be inserted
> between the two codes:
>
> NNNNNNNNB or
>
> NNNN/NNNN
>
> NOTE: An entry is required in all instances of initial processing of
> converted records. An entry must be made in the first line of the S/C
> Conditions field if an entry was made in the Memorandum Rating field.
> Unless an entry was made in the Memorandum Rating field, any entry in
> the S/C Conditions field must have a corresponding entry in the S/C
> Percentages field.

S/C Percentages 3N Enter the percentage of disability assigned to the

(three occurrences) corresponding entry in the S/C Conditions field.
Acceptable

> entries range from \"00\" to \"100,\" in increments of 10. Entries
> less than \"100\" will be right-justified and zero-filled by the
> Target System. Make no entry if the Memorandum Rating field has an
> entry. Entry is required if an entry of \"28,\" \"29\", or "30\" is
> made in the Paragraph field. Entries will be edited for consistency
> with the allowable percentages for the corresponding diagnostic codes
> entered in the S/C Conditions field and with any entry made in the
> Paragraph field.

S/C Cond Over 3 IN Enter a single digit to show the number of
service-connected

> disabilities in excess of the three listed under S/C Conditions.
> Unless there are three entries in the S/C Conditions field, this field
> must be left blank or a \"O\" entered.

2-10

October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part 11

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Current S/C 3AN Enter the combined degree of disability established by
the

Comb Degree latest rating. Entry must be in the range from \"00\" to
\"100,\"

> in increments of 10. An entry less than \"100\" will be
> right-justified and zero-filled by the Target System. If an entry is
> made in the Memorandum Rating field, no entry may be made under
> Current S/C Combined Degree. Edits ensure that entries made are
> consistent with entries made in the Paragraph and Individual
> Unemployability fields.

NSC Cond 9AN In the same manner described above for S/C conditions,

(Nonservice-Connected enter the diagnostic codes of nonservice-
connected

Conditions- conditions.

three occurrences)

NSC Percentages 3N In the same manner described above for S/C
Percentages,

> enter the two- or three-digit percentage of disability assigned the
> diagnostic code entered on the same line. If an entry is made under
> NSC Conditions, a corresponding entry must be made in the NSC
> Percentages field.

NSC Cond Over 3 IN In the same manner described above for S/C Conditions
over

three, enter the number of NSC disabilities above the three

listed under NSC Conditions.

Current NSC 3AN In the same manner described above for current S/C
Combined

Comb Degree Degree, enter the combined degree of disability caused by
all

> NSC conditions. If an entry is made under NSC Conditions, then an
> entry must be made for Current NSC Combined Degree.

Memorandum Rating 1A Enter a \"Y\" to indicate that a disability rating
granting

> entitlement to compensation does not exist and a memorandum rating has
> been made to deter mine service-connection for chapter 31 purposes
> only. Since no S/C degree is assigned to the S/C conditions) on a
> memorandum rating, no entries should be made in the S/C Percentages or
> the Cur- rent S/C Combined Degree fields. In all cases in which a
> disability rating has been made to establish entitlement to
> compensation, this field must be left blank.

Military Ret Pay 1A Enter a \"Y\" to indicate the claimant is receiving
military

retirement payments in lieu of VA compensation. Otherwise,

leave this field blank.

2-11

M28-2, Part It October 29, 1985

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Individual 1A Enter a \"Y\" to show the veteran\'s entitlement to
payment of

Unemployability a 100 percent compensation rate based upon individual

> unemployability. For all other cases, leave this field blank. If an
> entry is made, the current S/C Combined Degree field must contain an
> entry other than \"100.\"

Paragraph 2AN Enter either \"29\" or \"30\" to indicate that the veteran
is

> receiving temporary 100 percent compensation under paragraph 29 or 30
> of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities, These paragraphs show
> hospital treatment or observation or convalescence for hospital
> treatment. Enter a \"28\" if the veteran is temporarily receiving
> either 50 or 100 percent compensation under paragraph 28 of the
> Schedule for Rating Disabilities. This paragraph indicates a
> prestabilization rating in the period immediately following discharge
> from service.

SSN (Social 11N An entry is required for original claims and for initial

Security Number) processing against converted records. Otherwise, entry

is optional. Entry must be in one of the following

two formats:

NNN-NN-NNNN

NNNNNNNNNN

Birth Date 10N Enter the veteran\'s date of birth in standard format
with a

four-digit year. Entry is required for original claims and for

initial processing against converted records. Otherwise, entry

is optional.

Educ Level at App 2N An entry is required for original claims and for
initial

(Education Level processing against converted records. Otherwise entry

at Application) is optional.

> Entries must be done of the following:
>
> 00-1 I -Years of education successfully completed, but less than a
> high school diploma or equivalent
>
> 12-High school diploma or equivalent
>
> 13-At least 30 semester or 45 quarter hours of undergraduate study
> successfully completed
>
> 14-At least 60 semester or 90 quarter hours of undergraduate study
> successfully completed
>
> 15-At least 90 semester or 135 quarter hours of
>
> undergraduate study successfully completed
>
> 16-Receipt of a bachelor\'s degree
>
> 17-Completion of at least one full year of graduate study
>
> 20-Unknown

2-12

October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part 11

**Field Field Description of Entries**

**Title Entry or**

**Display\***

Next Screen 3AN Enter one of the following: 200, 300, 400, 331, 332,
333,

408, S99, RES, DEL, END, GED, GAP, or 501.

h\. Independent Update Transactions. The 331, 332, and 333 screens may
be used singly or in combination to process an update transaction to
enter new data or to change existing data in an established chapter 31
master record. These changes and additions may be made via the CDAT and
CADJ commands, except that the FACILITY and FOLDER RETIREMENT fields may
only be updated using the CORR command. The data entry requirements for
each field are the same for updates as for application processing except
no entry will be made in the APPLICATION field on any of these screens.
All fields on these three screens may be updated with the following
exceptions:

\(1\) On All Three Screens

\(a\) File Number,

b.  End Product,

c.  Stub Name; and

\(2\) On the 331 Screen

\(a\) Prior VA Training: Total,

\(b\) Creditable 31 Entitlement, and

(c ) Eligibility Termination Date.

i\. Data Entry on the 408 Disallowance Screen. All necessary data must
be entered as applicant processing on the 33 1, 332, and 333 screens to
support a disallowance action. Following completion of the 331, 332, and
333 screens, the adjudicator will access the 408 screen to enter the
reason for the disallowance. The 408 screen may also be accessed from
the Ready screen or from the 300, 320, or 400 screen. Entry of
additional information may be required on the 408 screen to complete the
documentation of the disallowance.

\(1\) Reasons for Disallowance. There are 12 possible disallowance
reasons for Adjudication Division use at this time. These are listed on
the left half of the 408 screen under Adjudication Determination. An
\"X\" will be entered in front of the selected reason. Only one reason
code may be selected. The Adjudication Division may not select any of
the reasons listed on the right half of the screen under VR&C
Determination. Any previous disallowance reason held in the master
record will not be displayed.

\(a\) 01-No Military Service. This reason will be selected if the
evidence of record does not show active military service.

\(b\) 03-Character of Discharge. This reason will be selected if the
veteran\'s character of discharge prevents eligibility for benefits. If
this reason is chosen, the adjudicator must enter to the right of the
reason the date of release from active duty. This date must be in
standard date format with a four-digit year.

(c ) 04-Entitlement Forfeited. Select this reason if the veteran elects
or is required to forfeit his or her eligibility for chapter 31
benefits. The provisions of DVB Manual M21-1, chapter 20, describe the
conditions and actions necessary for involuntary forfeitures.

\(d\) 05-No Compensable S/C Disability-Possible Other Entitlement. This
reason will be selected if the claimant has a service-connected
disability, but the disability is not compensable. In addition, the
veteran currently has possible entitlement to other VA education
benefits.

M28-2, Part 11 October 29, 1985

\(e\) 5A-No Compensable S/C Disability-No Other Entitlement. Select this
reason if the claimant has a service-connected disability, but the
disability is not compensable. In addition, the veteran must not have
entitlement to other VA education benefits.

\(f\) 06-Disability Not Due to Service. Select this reason if the
claimant does not have a service-connected disability.

\(g\) 16-Failure To Prosecute. Select this reason if the claim is being
disallowed administratively because the claimant has failed to provide
in a timely manner additional information requested by the VA.

\(h\) 20-Claim Withdrawn. This reason should be selected if the claimant
voluntarily terminates processing of his or her claim for chapter 31
benefits for a reason other than to receive another VA education benefit
(see subpar. (1) below).

\(i\) 21-Whereabouts Unknown. Select this reason if the claimant cannot
be located.

\(j\) 22-Death of Claimant. Select this reason if proof of death of the
claimant has been received.

\(k\) 29-Other. Select this reason if a claim is disallowed for a reason
different from any of the other reasons listed for Adjudication Division
use on the 408 screen. If this reason is chosen, an explanatory note to
further describe the grounds for the disallowance must be entered in the
REMARKS field.

\(l\) 30-Elected Other Benefit. This reason should be selected if the
claimant elects to receive another VA education benefit.

2.  Remarks. An entry may be made in this field only if disallowance
    reason 29 is selected. This field will hold up to 70 characters.

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3.  Dictated Letter. Make no entry in this field. Until the Target
    System is modified to generate disallowance letters, dictated
    letters must be produced locally to inform the claimant of the
    reason for the disallowance of his or her claim.

\(4\) Next Screen. For normal processing of a disallowance, the
adjudicator should enter GAP. If entries remain to be made on the 331,
332, or 333 screen, one of these screen numbers may also be entered.
Entry of GAP in association with the entries made on the 331, 332, 333,
408 screens will update the PIF and produce a disallowance to be printed
on a tear­sheet. The disallowance must then be authorized in the
Adjudication Division using the CAUT command. If the operator has CAUT
authority, he or she may enter \"501 \" in the NEXT SCREEN field. This
action will also produce the disallow­ance. Following authorization, a
27Z transaction will be generated to update the chapter 31 data base.

j\. CAUT Processing. The CAUT command accesses the 501 screen to approve
or disapprove cases which are pending authorization. The CAUT command is
initiated for allowed claims after GED processing and for disallowed
claims after GAP processing. In addition, certain 88R transactions to
make updates to chapter 31 master records will require author­ization.
These 88R transactions will utilize GED processing prior to
authorization.

\(1\) Ready Screen. Ready screen entries for authorizing a claim are
edited against the PIF for consistency and for the operator\'s command
authority. If the edits are failed, the appropriate message will be
displayed on the Ready screen. If the edits are passed and only minimal
entries were made, the Target System will search the PIF for multiple
issues sharing the same file number. If more than one issue is found,
the S02 screen will be displayed to allow the authorizer to select the
desired issue. Once a selection is made, or if the Ready screen
contained enough data to bypass the S02 screen, the issue is further
edited for location status, number of required signatures and dates.
Appropriate error messages will be displayed on the Ready screen if any
of these edits are failed.

\(2\) Operator Authority. If the operator who completes the CDAT or CADJ
processing has CAUT authority, he or she may also authorize the case by
putting 501 in the NEXT SCREEN field of the last screen completed. If he
or she does not have this authority, then the case must be referred to
another person who does have the authority. At the present time, no
chapter 31 Target function requires second-party authorization in the
Adjudication Division when the individual com­pleting the CDAT or CADJ
processing has CAUT authority.

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October 29, 1985 M28-2, Part 11

\(3\) 501 Screen Display. Once a single issue has been identified and
all access edits are passed, the 501 screen will be displayed with file
number, end product code, name, other related issues, and the claim
transaction type and legend. The three chapter 31 transaction types with
their corresponding legends which may currently be authorized are:

\(a\) 03F CH31 INITIAL ELIG DET

\(b\) 27Z CH31 DISALLOWANCE

(c ) 88R CH31 UPDATE

\(4\) Rejection of Transaction by Authorizer. If the authorizer rejects
the proposed transaction by entering \"N\" in the AUTHORIZED field,
entries in other fields on the screen are prohibited. The authorizer
will route the case back to an earlier stage of processing for revision
and resubmission.

\(5\) Approval of Transaction by Authorizer. If the authorizer approves
the proposed transaction, he or she will enter a \"Y\" in the AUTHORIZED
field. The authorizer may then also change the end product, continue an
established control, cancel the pending issue or establish a new pending
issue. All other fields are protected from entry for chapter 31 cases.

\(6\) Transaction Sent but Master Record Unavailable. An authorized
transaction may be sent, but the chapter 31 master record may be
unavailable. This unavailability may result from a number of causes. If
this occurs, the data entered on the PIF will continue to be stored
there, but the transaction will have to be authorized again once the
problem preventing access to the master record is resolved. One of the
two following messages will appear on the Ready screen to call this
problem to the authorizer\'s attention:

a.  \"CH31 Unavailable at This Time

Start New Command With PA2 Key\" or

b.  \"CH31 File Access Error-Contact STO.

Start New Command With PA2 Key\".

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