Many veterans feel frustrated when they receive a VA disability rating that doesn’t truly reflect the severity of their condition. You served your country and now live with the consequences—but your rating may only be 10%, 30%, or 50%, even though your daily life is greatly impacted. The good news is, you’re not stuck with that rating forever. There are options for increasing your VA disability rating if your condition has worsened or if the VA made an error in the initial evaluation.
Why VA Disability Ratings Matter
Your VA disability rating directly impacts your monthly compensation, access to healthcare, and eligibility for other VA programs. For example, a veteran rated at 70% may receive over $1,700 a month, while a 100% rating increases that to over $3,700. If your condition has gotten worse, or if your initial claim was underrated, you’re losing out on the support you’ve earned.
Common Reasons Veterans Are Underrated
Incomplete Medical Records – If your full medical history wasn’t submitted, the VA may have missed critical information.
No Nexus Letter – Without a clear medical opinion linking your condition to service, the VA may deny or underrate the claim.
Poor C&P Exam Results – If you downplayed your symptoms or had a rushed Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam, your condition may have been underestimated.
Secondary Conditions Ignored – Many veterans don’t realize that conditions caused by a service-connected disability (like depression from chronic pain) can be rated separately.
What You Can Do
✅ File for an Increase – If your service-connected condition has worsened, you can file a claim for a rating increase. Be prepared to submit updated medical records showing how your condition has deteriorated.
✅ Request a Higher-Level Review (HLR) – If you believe the VA made a mistake on your original claim, you can request a Higher-Level Review. A senior reviewer will re-evaluate your case without needing to submit new evidence.
✅ File a Supplemental Claim – If you have new evidence that wasn’t available during your first claim, such as a nexus letter, medical opinion, or updated diagnosis, you can file a supplemental claim.
✅ Appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals – For more serious cases, especially when you’ve exhausted HLR and supplemental claim options, you can appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.
Tips to Strengthen Your Case
Gather Strong Medical Evidence – Regular doctor visits, test results, and statements from specialists can prove the worsening of your condition.
Write a Lay Statement – You or your family can describe how your condition affects your daily life—work, sleep, mobility, relationships, etc.
Consult a VSO or Accredited Attorney – Professionals can help identify gaps in your claim and increase your chances of a successful appeal or rating increase.
You Deserve What You’ve Earned
If you’re struggling with a low rating that doesn’t match your reality, don’t give up. The VA system can be slow and complicated, but with persistence and the right help, many veterans successfully increase their ratings and get the benefits they deserve.
