At QRF Legal Services, we understand the challenges veterans and their families face when it comes to navigating the VA disability benefits process. We are here to help you navigate the complexities and ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.
If you’re already receiving benefits, but your condition has worsened due to your service, you may qualify for a higher disability rating and a larger monthly payment. Securing an increase is not just about claiming that your situation is worse. It’s about carefully constructing a case with strong new evidence.
Understand the Basics: What is a VA Disability Rating?
Your VA disability rating is a percentage ranging from 0% to 100% that reflects the severity of your service-connected condition. This rating directly influences the amount of tax-free monthly benefits you receive. The VA determines these ratings based on criteria outlined in the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD). Each condition has specific diagnostic codes and requirements that detail the symptoms and functional limitations that warrant a rating of 10%, 30%, or 50%.
To increase your rating, you need to prove that your current condition meets the criteria for a higher percentage according to the VASRD scale.
Gather Strong, New Medical Evidence
The foundation of any successful request for a higher rating is new and relevant medical evidence. It is not enough to simply state that you feel worse. You need objective documentation from healthcare professionals to support your claim.
- Current Diagnosis: Ensure that you have a clear and up-to-date diagnosis from a qualified medical professional.
- Service Connection: Once you’ve established a service, your new information should include details about the increased severity of your condition.
- Describe Your Symptoms: Be specific about how your symptoms have changed with your doctor. Do you experience more frequent migraines? Has your back pain become more persistent, limiting your ability to move freely? Has PTSD caused more frequent panic attacks or led to social isolation? The more detailed your medical records, the better.
Obtain a Nexus Letter for New or Secondary Conditions
Sometimes, a worsening of a primary condition can lead to the development of a new, secondary condition. For instance, a service-related knee injury may lead to chronic hip and back problems due to altered gait. In such cases, it may be possible to file for a higher rating based on the secondary condition.
To do this, you will need a strong “nexus letter” from a medical professional. The letter should clearly state that there is a “strong possibility” that your new or worsened condition is directly related to your original service-connected disability. A well-written nexus letter can be a powerful piece of evidence in your claim.
File a Fully Developed Claim (FDC)
When you think you have all the evidence you need, consider submitting a fully developed claim (FDC). By submitting an FDC, you are letting the VA know that you have provided all relevant information and are asking for a decision based on this information. This can often lead to a quicker decision.
Be Prepared for a C&P Exam
Upon receiving your request for an increase in benefits, the Veterans Affairs (VA) often schedules you for a new Compensation and Pension (C&P) examination. This examination is crucial. The examiner evaluates your condition and provides a determination of its current severity.
- Be Honest and Thorough: Do not underestimate your symptoms. Describe your pain, limitations, and how your condition affects your daily life, work, and family relationships on your worst days, not your best.
- Provide Examples: Instead of saying “my back hurts,” explain that the pain is constant and sharp and prevents you from playing with your children, doing yard work, or sitting through a movie.
Consider Legal Representation — You’re Not Alone
The VA system can be complicated. Denials can happen even in strong cases. We at QRF Legal Services have seen how small mistakes, such as missing forms, outdated records, or underreporting symptoms, can cause claims to be rejected.
Our team specializes in assisting with VA disability appeals and rating increases. We can help you:
- Identify any gaps in your documentation
- Draft convincing statements for your case
- Navigate the VA bureaucracy to ensure a smooth process
- Appeal if your initial request is denied
Final Thought: Your Benefits Reflect Your Sacrifice
A higher VA disability rating is not just about money – it’s about recognizing and acknowledging the lasting impact of your service. If your condition has worsened, you have every right to request a more accurate rating that reflects your current circumstances.
Don’t wait until your symptoms become unbearable. Start collecting evidence today.
Contact QRF Legal Services for a free consultation. We can help you get the benefits you deserve – because no veteran should have to fight alone.
