While increasing the VA disability rating is a complex process, a few options exist. VA disability ratings depend on the veteran’s symptoms, and individuals with symptoms that match the rating can receive higher compensation. Below is a list of ways to increase your VA disability rating.
File an Appeal
Veterans who file a claim for service-connected compensation receive a VA rating that either denies or grants their share. The rating decision includes a disability rating and an effective date determining the compensation amount.
Veterans who think their VA disability rating is too low and the effective date is incorrect are given one year to file a disagreement notice to increase their rating in the appeals system.
Individuals who receive unfavorable decisions in the Appeals Modernization Act can review their options under the supplemental claim lane, higher-level review lane, and notice of disagreement lane.
Supplemental Claim Lane
This claim enables the submission of relevant and new evidence. Furthermore, in this lane, the VA is responsible for assisting veterans in collecting evidence to support their claims. Veterans maintain effective dates when submitting relevant and new evidence as long as this claim gets submitted within the agreed time for the Regional Office’s (RO’s) initial decision.
Higher-Level Review Lane
Veterans who choose this path request the issuance of another decision from the Regional Office (RO) based on a higher review level. A senior VA employee evaluates the claim from a new perspective.
Veterans can’t submit additional evidence to support their claims in this lane. The RO issues a recent decision depending on the evidence present during the prior decision.
Notice of Disagreement Lane
Veterans who receive an unfavorable decision appeal their cases to the RO’s Board. With the help of reputable veterans disability attorneys, veterans always skip the RO’s second level of review. The veterans can choose an additional three lanes present at the Board, including the hearing docket, evidence docket, and direct docket.
File for TDIU
Total disability based on individual unemployability (TDIU) is a benefit that compensates veterans who can’t work due to service-related disabilities. Most veterans who follow this route receive a 100% rating, and those that fail to maintain and obtain substantial employment due to service-connected issues qualify for unemployability benefits.
Veterans qualify for this based on an extraschedular or scheduled basis, provided they meet the VA’s requirements. Veterans must complete a Veteran’s Application Based on Unemployability by completing the VA Form 21-8940 before submitting it to VA. The form is then submitted by mail, online, with the assistance of an accredited representative, or in person.
File a Claim
The VA’s disability rating may seem satisfactory, but veterans may feel that the rating isn’t sufficient later on. Veterans who fail to beat the 1-year appeal window for filing a Notice of Disagreement should file a new claim to guarantee a higher rating.
You can submit new evidence or documentation that supports the worsening of your service-connected disability. Upon filing their lawsuit, veterans who choose this path undergo a further Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. Veterans can submit private exam records as a basis for supporting their claims.
Generally, those who wish to advance their claim for an increase in disability compensation must fill out the VA-Form 21-526EZ for disability and related compensation benefits.
File for Secondary Service Connection
Veterans can file a claim for secondary service-related disabilities. Technically, the approach doesn’t increase the rating for initial disabilities but may lead to increased compensation.
Secondary claims are sometimes overlooked, and many treatments or disabilities lead to new conditions for which veterans can seek VA compensation.
Veterans with service-related back injuries affecting their gait and those taking pain medications that cause gastrointestinal issues are eligible for additional compensation.
Navigating the VA system is sometimes challenging; veterans who initiate the process alone can get frustrated. You should conduct thorough research before filing a claim to increase your rating. Hire an accredited expert to assist you in crafting a solid claim that withstands the scrutiny from VA.