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WARMS FAQs

  1. How often are WARMS documents updated?

    2. WARMS updating process is based on the approval process of each publication. Document updates are performed as soon as they are officially submitted to the Directives, Forms and Records Staff (20S5). WARMS is typically updated several times a week.

  2. How do I use this application or get specific training on its' use?

    3. There is no specific training available on the use of WARMS. It is a document based search application that allows simple single word and phrase searches up to the more complex full text content search. Basic and more advanced searching techniques can be found by reviewing Tips for Searching.

  3. Why does WARMS utilize Microsoft Word documents in lieu of Adobe PDF documents?

    4. The Veterans Administration's (VA) standard word processor for electronic documents is Microsoft Word. WARMS documents are displayed in their original format, which could include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. This allows the document to have portions copied to the clipboard and pasted into another document without performing any clean-up or reformatting. PDF documents display quite well but require additional formatting when pasted into Microsoft Word documents.

    Microsoft Office viewers, if needed, are free to download, as is Adobe PDF viewer, and can be accessed by following this Viewer Link.

  4. What happened to the "Old System"?

    5. WARMS has been in nationwide production since July 1999 and did not replace any other VBA Web based system. There are a number of other VBA related sites that provide links to the WARMS site for subsequent document searches. WARMS is the Internet equivalent of the Automated Reference Materials System (ARMS) that is contained on CD-ROM.

  5. How do I get further assistance on specific item searches, document content, or additional information pertaining to this site?

    6. Forward any questions or comments to the VBA via the WARMS Webmaster.

  6. What types of documents are contained on WARMS?

    7. WARMS contains documents implementing policy for the Veterans Benefits Administration within the Department of Veterans Affairs. These documents include:

    Circulars...................Guides
    Letters......................Manuals
    Pamphlets.................Directives
    Handbooks

  7. Why are some document databases not complete?

    8. There are a number of hardcopy documents that currently do not have an electronic version. These documents are either being rewritten or scanned and will be added as soon as they are approved.

  8. How do I get assistance if I have a benefits question?

    9. Access the homepage below that corresponds with the nature of your inquiry.

    Compensation and Pension
    Education
    Insurance
    Loan Guaranty
    Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment

    If you are unsure as the service responsible, simply direct your question to the WARMS Webmaster.

  9. Where do I search for the Schedule of Rating Disabilities?

    10. The Schedule of Rating Disabilities is contained in the Title 38 Code of Federal Regulations database.

  10. How can I find information on ordering the CD version of WARMS?

    11. Follow this link ARMS CD-ROM for ordering information.

  11. Why can't I get service connected record information from this site, including the status of claims or appeals?

    12. This is an "information only" site that provides access to the documents used by the benefit service areas to "work" claims and provide guidance, policy, or regulations. There are no references to a Veteran's record. All requests for status and other specific service information are forwarded to the appropriate area for review/action. Refer to Question 8 for specific VBA benefit service websites or quick access to a WARMS Contact Form.

  12. How can I search within a document that was retrieved via the Direct Link to Manuals?

    13. Documents are displayed in their native format once retrieved. Searching within the document can be performed by selecting Edit/Find from the toolbar located on the top of the display screen or by depressing CTRL-F. A pop-up window will be displayed that allows search criteria to be entered.

  13. I currently use the WARMS Manuals Direct Links to access information from WARMS. How will I know when a manual, regulation, circular etc. is changed?

    14. The WARMS Homepage displays the "What's New? Updated XX/XX/XXXX HH:MM X.M.** message. The date and time are modified after each update is posted. Clicking on this link will display the "WARMS - What's New?" page. All changes for that day are accessible via direct links provided.

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