How to Increase Your VA Disability Rating
If the VA has denied your claim for disability benefits, it is beneficial to understand that you have options, what they are, and how you can appeal the denial with the assistance of a VA attorney. Furthermore, if you suffered a disability as a veteran and your condition has worsened over time, you may be able to increase your VA disability rating. This article provides steps to increase your disability rating and will help you understand the options if your VA claim has been denied.
If you need immediate assistance, please reach out to The VA Claims Lawyer, we are experienced in veterans' benefits, and our nationwide practice is here to help you. We will review your case for free and help you get the monthly compensation you deserve. Feel free to call us at 877 VET FILE.
What is a VA disability rating?
A VA Disability Rating is a percentage the VA assigns to a veteran's service-connected conditions and reflects the severity of those conditions. The higher the rating percentage, the more monthly compensation the veteran receives for the condition. VA disability ratings range from 10 to 100 percent, in increments of 10. The higher the rating, the more severe the condition. The VA can also assign a 0 percent rating which is not a denial of a condition.
To receive a rating, you must first establish a medical condition or diagnosis that the VA must approve. The three components include: a current diagnosis of your condition from a medical professional, an in-service event, injury, or illness, and the link that connected the current condition to the in-service event.
Steps to increase your VA disability rating
If you are a veteran with disability benefits and your condition has worsened over time, here are the steps on how to increase your VA disability rating:
Gather evidence to support your claim. Gathering evidence is one of the most critical steps in increasing your VA disability rating. The VA will need to see proof that your disability is service-connected and that it is causing you significant problems. Medical records are the most crucial evidence, but you can also provide employment records, statements from friends and family, and other types of evidence. You can submit VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam reports and statements from family, friends, employers, or co-workers, along with your medical records.
File a new claim. If you believe your disability has worsened since you first filed your claim, you can file a new claim for an increased rating. As stated above, you should provide new medical evidence showing your disability has worsened.
File an appeal. You can file an appeal if you disagree with the VA's decision on your claim.
To file a claim for increased disability compensation. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. For the best outcome, it is essential to have the support of an experienced VA attorney that can help you put together a claim or appeal for your case.
The VA will review your claim and make a decision. If your claim is approved, you will receive an increased disability rating and additional compensation.
Here are some additional helpful tips to help you increase your VA disability rating:
The more evidence you can gather, the better your outcome can be to support your claim.
Be prepared to explain how your disability has affected your life. This includes how it has affected your ability to work, your social activities, and your daily activities.
Be patient. The VA disability appeals process can be long and complex. It is essential to be patient and persistent in your efforts to get the rating you deserve.
What are the steps to take if you are denied an increase in your VA disability rating?
If you are denied an increase in your VA disability rating, you can appeal the decision. You can do this by filing a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) with the VA. The NOD must be filed within 365 days of the date of the VA's decision.
If you are still unsatisfied with the VA's decision after you have appealed, you can request a hearing. This gives you the chance to provide oral testimony that supports your claim.
How long does it take to get VA benefits?
If it is your first time applying for VA benefits, processing your claim can typically take four to eight months. Therefore, ensuring you have a solid case with a diagnosis from your doctor and supporting documents is essential. A VA attorney can assist in creating a case so that you can get the benefits you deserve. If your claim was denied, or your condition or diagnosis has worsened, you can put together a 2nd case that typically takes three to four months to get approved. Once approved and given a VA rating, you can expect your first payment at the beginning of the following month.
At The VA Claims Lawyer, we're not just your legal representative. We're your advocate. We've successfully assisted countless veterans in getting the VA benefits they deserve. We can also help you obtain the best possible outcome in your case. If we don't win your case, there is no fee. Contact us today at (877) VET-FILE for your free case evaluation.
