Not all disabled veterans are satisfied with their disability rating, which dictates the amount of disability income they receive each month. Veterans have the option of submitting documentation requesting a higher VA disability rating. This process can be long and frustrating if not done according to the VA’s requirements. Many veterans hire a VA Disability consultant, like Molly Pratt, whose firm has achieved a 100% success in increasing their clients’ ratings. However, they qualify each veteran via a free evaluation call. Veterans can also do it on their own or with a VSO officer.
Below are 10 Important Steps to Increase Your VA Disability Income
VA Disability Expert May Save You Valuable Time Getting Your Increased Rating
- Gather comprehensive medical evidence
- Obtain all recent treatment records documenting worsening symptoms
- Request detailed notes from your healthcare providers
- Keep a personal journal documenting daily symptom severity and limitations
- File the appropriate claim type
- For worsened conditions: file for an increased rating
- For new conditions related to service: file an initial claim
- For conditions caused by existing service-connected disabilities: file secondary claims
- Complete Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs)
- Have your doctor complete condition-specific DBQs
- These forms use the exact rating criteria VA uses for evaluation
- Submit these with your claim for stronger evidence
- Obtain buddy statements
- Request statements from fellow service members who witnessed events or your condition
- Get statements from family/friends who can describe how your condition impacts daily life
- Ensure statements are specific, detailed, and signed
- Understand the rating criteria for your conditions
- Research the VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities for your specific conditions
- Focus on documenting symptoms that align with higher rating criteria
- Understand which functional limitations carry more weight
- Prepare thoroughly for C&P exams
- Describe your symptoms at their worst, not just how you feel that day
- Bring notes about frequency, duration, and severity of symptoms
- Clearly explain how your condition limits your work and daily activities
- Consider applying for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU)
- If your service-connected conditions prevent you from maintaining substantial employment
- Can provide 100% compensation rate even if your combined rating is below 100%
- Requires evidence that you cannot work due to service-connected disabilities
- Review and appeal unfavorable decisions
- Request a higher-level review for clear errors
- File supplemental claims with new and relevant evidence
- Consider a Board of Veterans’ Appeals appeal for complex cases
- Work with an accredited representative
- Seek help from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), who provides free assistance
- Consider an accredited attorney for complex cases or appeals
- Their expertise can significantly improve your chances of success
- Stay persistent and follow up regularly
- Track all claim deadlines and status updates on VA.gov
- Respond promptly to any VA requests for information
- Don’t give up if initially denied – many successful claims require appeals
Step-by-Step Process: Do not cut corners. Be accurate.
Gather Medical Evidence
- Obtain recent medical records documenting the worsening of your condition
- Get statements from your healthcare providers about severity and limitations
- Consider seeking a private medical opinion/DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire)
File the Correct Form
- For increased ratings: VA Form 20-0995 (Supplemental Claim)
- For new conditions: VA Form 21-526EZ
- For appeals: VA Form 20-0996 (Higher-Level Review)
Prepare for Your C&P Exam
- Be honest about your worst days, not just how you feel on exam day
- Document symptom frequency, severity, and impact on daily life
- Bring supporting documentation to your appointment
Tips for Success
- Keep detailed records of how your condition affects daily activities
- Follow all VA deadlines and respond promptly to requests for information
- Consider working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for free assistance
- Be prepared to clearly explain how your condition has worsened since last rated