Do you believe your original VA disability rating was too low? Or maybe it fit at the time, but now your health condition has deteriorated. Or perhaps your original disability has led to other health problems that you are not yet rated for. If any of these apply to you, you may be eligible for a VA rating increase.
Many veterans don’t realize that their original rating isn’t necessarily permanent. If they were underrated from the get-go, they can request a reassessment to receive the full benefits they deserve. The same thing applies if their original disability is worsening or leading to other conditions.
A VA rating increase can lead to a higher monthly compensation rate and even open the door to additional VA services. However, the process isn’t as simple as checking a box or submitting a quick request. You’ll need updated medical evidence, a clear timeline of how your condition has progressed, and a thorough understanding of how the VA evaluates ratings.
This guide explains when you should consider applying for a higher rating, how to prepare your claim, and what steps will help you present a strong, well-documented case for reassessment.
VA Ratings Aren’t Set in Stone
The VA’s disability rating system assigns percentages based on how severely a service-connected condition impairs your ability to work and function in daily life. These percentages may range from 0% to 100%, depending on the health condition, and they affect how much monthly compensation you receive. But what many veterans don’t realize is that ratings can be increased if a condition worsens, new symptoms develop, or secondary conditions emerge.
There are a number of scenarios that may prompt a VA rating increase. For example, if your joint pain now requires assistive devices or causes frequent flare-ups, that’s evidence of a worsening condition. Likewise, if a mental health condition like PTSD or depression becomes more disruptive—affecting your ability to maintain relationships, focus at work, or manage daily tasks—it may warrant a reevaluation.
Filing for a VA rating increase doesn’t mean starting over, but it does mean the VA will reexamine your claim, which can include a new Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam and a review of your updated medical history.
It’s important to present a strong case from the outset because the VA reserves the right to decrease your original rating if the evidence suggests your condition has improved. That said, veterans with a clear history of deterioration and consistent treatment documentation generally have little to worry about—if they prepare their case correctly.
When to Request a VA Rating Increase
Here are several situations where a rating increase may be appropriate:
Worsening of Symptoms: If your pain has intensified, mobility has decreased, or mental health symptoms such as panic attacks or insomnia have increased in frequency or severity, these are clear signs your current rating may no longer apply. For example, a veteran may have been granted a 10% rating for migraines that occurred every couple of months. But if they start occurring monthly, they may merit a 30% rating (or higher, depending on their intensity and duration).
Use of New Assistive Devices: If you now need to rely on assistive devices due to your condition (including back braces, canes, walkers, or hearing aids), it may be time to start the VA rating increase process. The need for these devices indicates functional limitations, and when this need is clearly documented in both your medical records and personal statements, you have compelling evidence for a VA rating increase.
Development of Secondary Conditions: If you’ve developed a new issue directly related to your existing service-connected condition, such as depression secondary to chronic pain or arthritis secondary to knee pain, you may qualify for an additional rating that increases your total combined disability score.
Inability to Work: If your condition now affects your ability to maintain steady employment, or you’ve had to take a lower-paying job due to physical or mental limitations, it is likely time to file for a rating increase. In cases of severe interference, you may even qualify for TDIU (Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability).
You should be proactive and track your symptoms as they evolve. Keeping a journal, collecting updated doctor’s notes, and getting consistent treatment creates a paper trail to strengthen your future claim.
How to File for a VA Rating Increase
If you believe you are underrated by the VA, there are different ways to file for an increase. One way is to file a supplemental claim, where you present new evidence to strengthen your claim. For example, if the VA dismissed your health condition as not being service-connected, you could include a well-written nexus letter connecting your condition to your time in service. If the VA questioned the severity of your condition, you could include new medical records or a well-written personal statement to show how much your condition is affecting your daily life.
If you believe the VA made errors when they reviewed your case, you could ask for a Higher-Level Review, where a more senior VA adjudicator reopens your case to see if any mistakes were made in the original review process.
You can also file a Board Appeal—something that some veterans choose to do with the help of an attorney. However, be aware that the appeals process can take a long time (sometimes years!) and an attorney will often collect their fees by garnishing a percentage of your back pay. A supplemental claim is often more efficient than an appeal.
Here are some tips to guide your VA rating increase process:
Get a Nexus Letter (if appropriate): If the connection between your condition and your military service is in question, make sure to get a nexus letter from your physician. This should state that it is “at least as likely as not” that your condition is connected to your military service.
Gather Current Medical Evidence: Submit recent treatment records, physician statements, and test results that reflect the worsening of your condition. If you’ve had physical therapy, ER visits, or specialist consultations, be sure those are included in your submission. And although it sounds obvious, make sure you have a current medical diagnosis. (Some veterans fail to submit this, and it jeopardizes their claim.) If you haven’t seen your doctor for your condition lately, make an appointment right away to show that you are actively seeking treatment.
Write a Detailed Personal Statement: Describe your condition in your own words. Focus on daily struggles, limitations, and changes since your last VA rating. Don’t be afraid to be specific—describe pain levels, tasks you can no longer perform, and how the condition affects your emotional or social life. Be succinct (don’t ramble), and don’t talk about things that are not related to your service-connected condition.
Prepare for a C&P Exam: Your VA increase request may lead to a new C&P exam. This is your chance to explain your current symptoms. Don’t underplay your issues—be honest, and describe your worst days. The examiner’s findings carry significant weight, so preparation is key.
Request Buddy Statements: If friends, family members, or coworkers can speak to how your condition has impacted you, their statements can reinforce your case. These letters should include specific examples of changes they’ve noticed in your behavior, ability, or lifestyle.
Each piece of documentation contributes to your overall picture. Think of your claim as a mosaic: the more pieces you provide, the easier it is for the VA to see the reality of your situation.
Why Choose VA Claims Academy?
The key to the VA rating increase process is to speak the VA’s language and present enough of the right evidence to make it hard for them to deny your claim. That’s where VA Claims Academy comes in. Our approach is rooted in real-world experience from veterans who have walked this path—and succeeded.
We teach you how to use the right language and organization strategies so that you’re presenting the VA with exactly what they need to approve your claim. Through our online course, plug-and-play templates (for nexus letters, personal statements, etc.), C&P exam prep, and one-on-one advising, we help you understand how to present your claim like a professional.
You deserve a rating that accurately reflects your health and your service. Let VA Claims Academy help you secure that rating as efficiently and painlessly as possible.
FAQs: VA Claim Rating Increase
How often can I file for a VA rating increase?
There is no limit to how often you can file, but each request must include new or worsening evidence. Submitting frequent claims without additional documentation could lead to delays or denials.
What risks are involved in requesting a higher rating?
How long does the VA take to process a rating increase request?
Can I appeal if I don’t get the rating increase I asked for?
What’s the difference between a rating increase and TDIU?
Will I need a new C&P exam for an increase?
Can lay statements help my rating increase?
What if I’ve developed a new related condition?
Do I need legal representation to file for a rating increase?
Can my rating increase lead to back pay?
1https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-21-526ez-are.pdf