If you’re a veteran seeking to increase your VA disability rating, it’s essential to understand the process and follow the necessary steps to ensure a successful claim. Here are 10 important key steps to help you file and increase your VA disability rating:

1. Gather Medical Evidence

Collect all relevant medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, and hospital records, that support your claim for an increased rating. This evidence should demonstrate the severity of your condition and how it affects your daily life.

2. Understand the VA Rating Schedule

Familiarize yourself with the VA’s rating schedule, which outlines the criteria for each disability rating. This will help you understand what evidence is required to support your claim.

3. Choose the Right Form

Use the correct form, VA Form 21-4138, to submit your claim for an increased rating. This form is used to file a claim for an increase in compensation.

4. Be Specific About Your Condition

Clearly describe your condition, including its symptoms, treatment, and how it affects your daily life. Be specific about how your condition has worsened and why you believe you deserve a higher rating.

5. Provide Supporting Statements

Gather statements from family members, friends, or caregivers that describe how your condition affects your daily life. These statements can provide valuable insight into the impact of your condition.

6. Get a Nexus Letter

A nexus letter is a medical opinion that links your current condition to your military service. This letter can be provided by a qualified medical professional and is essential in supporting your claim.

7. File Your Claim

Submit your claim to the VA, either online or by mail. Make sure to keep a copy of your claim and all supporting documents for your records.

8. Wait for the VA’s Decision

The VA will review your claim and make a decision. This process can take several months, so be patient and don’t hesitate to follow up if you haven’t received a decision.

9. Appeal if Necessary

If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. You’ll need to file a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) with the VA, stating why you disagree with their decision.

10. Seek Professional Help

If you’re unsure about the process or need guidance, seek help from a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or an accredited attorney. Another option is to talk with a VA Disability Claim professional. If they do not increase your rating, they usually do not charge any fees.  And their evaluation call is free.  They can provide valuable assistance and support throughout the process.

By following these 10 key steps, you’ll be well on your way to filing a successful claim and increasing your VA disability rating. Remember to stay patient, persistent, and thorough throughout the process.

A VA disability rating is a percentage assigned by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to a veteran’s service-connected disability. This rating represents how much the disability impairs veterans’ ability to work and earn a living. The rating is used to determine the amount of monthly compensation the veteran is eligible to receive.

How is a VA Disability Rating Determined?

The VA uses a rating schedule to determine the disability rating. The rating schedule is a complex system that assigns a percentage rating based on the severity of the disability, as well as its impact on the veteran’s daily life and ability to work.

The rating schedule considers factors such as:

• The severity of the disability
• The frequency and duration of symptoms
• The impact on daily activities and employment
• The presence of any related conditions or complications

Can I Lose My Existing Rating if I File a Second Time?

If you’re considering filing a new claim for a service-connected disability, you may wonder if you’ll lose your existing rating. The answer is, it depends on the circumstances.

Scenario 1: Filing for a New Condition

If you’re filing a claim for a new condition that is unrelated to your existing service-connected disability, your existing rating will not be affected. The VA will evaluate the new condition separately and assign a new rating, which will be combined with your existing rating to determine your overall compensation.

Scenario 2: Filing for an Increase in Rating

If you’re filing a claim for an increase in rating for your existing service-connected disability, the VA will re-evaluate your condition to determine if it has worsened. If the VA determines that your condition has improved, your rating could potentially decrease. However, if the VA determines that your condition has worsened, your rating could increase.

Scenario 3: Filing for a Secondary Condition

If you’re filing a claim for a secondary condition that is related to your existing service-connected disability, the VA will evaluate the secondary condition separately. If the VA determines that the secondary condition is service-connected, it will be added to your existing rating, which could result in an increase in compensation.

Tips and Reminders

• Always consult with a veterans’ service organization or an accredited attorney to ensure you’re filing the correct paperwork and gathering the necessary evidence to support your claim.
• Keep detailed records of your medical treatment and any changes in your condition to support your claim.
• Be prepared for the possibility that your rating could decrease if the VA determines that your condition has improved.

By understanding the VA disability rating system and the potential outcomes of filing a new claim, you can make informed decisions about your benefits and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.