Disability Rating Increases
A service-connected condition can change over time. If your symptoms have worsened, you may be able to request a higher VA disability rating.
Georgia Veteran Disability provides general information about rating increases and helps veterans across Georgia connect with independent professionals who can review their situation.
Understanding Your VA Disability Rating
The VA assigns a disability rating based on the severity of your service-connected condition. This percentage helps determine your monthly disability compensation and eligibility for certain other benefits.
If you have multiple service-connected conditions, the VA calculates a combined rating using a specific method. Individual ratings are not simply added together.
When Can You Request an Increase?
An increased claim asks the VA to reevaluate a condition it has already recognized as service connected because that condition has worsened.
Updated evidence showing the change in your condition can support your request. A higher rating is not automatic; the VA must evaluate the evidence and apply the relevant rating criteria.
Evidence That May Support Your Request
Relevant supporting information may include:
- Recent VA or private medical records
- Medical opinions describing changes in your condition
- Statements explaining how your symptoms affect everyday activities
- Statements from people who have observed changes in your condition
Medical and lay evidence can help document the current effects of your service-connected disability. Keep copies of the records and statements you submit.
What Happens During the Review?
The VA reviews the evidence about the severity of your condition. If needed, it may schedule a compensation and pension examination, also called a C&P exam. Examination findings, medical records, and other relevant information help the VA determine the appropriate rating.
A Worsening Condition or a Disputed Decision?
Requesting an increase for a condition that has worsened is different from challenging a previous VA decision. If you believe your original rating was incorrect, a decision-review option may be more appropriate. The available path depends on your circumstances, evidence, and claim history.
How Georgia Veteran Disability Helps
Our straightforward inquiry process helps Georgia veterans connect with independent professionals to discuss concerns about their current disability rating.
Georgia Veteran Disability is a lead-generation service, not a law firm. We do not provide legal advice, submit claims, or represent veterans before the VA. We are not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Explore Your Next Step
Has your service-connected condition worsened? Tell us a little about your situation to request a connection with an independent professional.
Submitting an inquiry through this website does not file a claim with the VA.
