Jim,
As always, thanks for what you do for us. I have received a written request and now phone calls from the VA, in association with Harvard-Pilgrim Health Care, to take part in a pulmonary study. This study is for people with asthma and C.O.P.D, my VA health records indicate that I suffer from asthma and other breathing problems. I agreed over the phone to take part in the survey, which incidentally could extend for two years. They mentioned a stipend of $25.00 a visit, which would be monthly and given in cash. I’m at 100% due to employability. I mentioned this to the person on the phone and expressed that I didn’t want to jeopardize my situation with the VA. I’m really having second thoughts about doing this with the reputation of the VA. What do you think?
Reply:
I don't see any harm. The stipend won't have any effect on your TDIU benefit since it won't be "earned income". You never know...you may learn something about your asthma that could improve it for you.
I'd go for it.
The discussion of TDIU benefits contiunes here:
http://statesidelegal.org/difference-benefits-100-schedular-disabled-veteran-vs-100-tdiu-disabled