While delays of three months or more for a specialized mental health C&P exam are unfortunately common and not inherently abnormal, the significant discrepancy from your other exams warrants proactive follow-up. The VA schedules exams through third-party contractors like LSGS (Logistics Health Inc., QTC, or VetFed), and high demand for qualified mental health professionals often creates bottlenecks, as these exams require specific expertise per **38 CFR 4.130** (Evaluation of Mental Disorders) and the associated Diagnostic Codes (e.g., 9400 for anxiety, 9434 for depression). However, indefinite waiting is not required; you should first contact the VA’s White House Hotline (855-948-2311) or use the VA’s “Ask VA” portal to inquire, as established in *Buchanan v. Nicholson*, which holds the VA has a duty to assist in timely development of a claim (**38 CFR 3.159**). If no exam is scheduled within 30 days of your inquiry, consider submitting a statement via QuickSubmit noting the delay and its impact on your claim, as this creates a record that could support a future argument for an earlier effective date if the delay is deemed unreasonable. Continue treatment and maintain private medical evidence, as this can be crucial if the eventual exam is inadequate, per *DeLuca v. Brown*, which allows for consideration of evidence on the severity of symptoms over time.
*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes regarding VA processes and is not legal, medical, or official claims advice.*
Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.
Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.
| Rating | Monthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
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