Filing for a Rating Increase
If your service-connected condition has worsened, you may be entitled to a higher disability rating and increased monthly compensation.
A rating increase (also known as a "claim for increase") allows veterans to request a higher disability percentage for a condition that has already been service-connected but has worsened over time. Many veterans are initially rated too low or experience legitimate deterioration of their conditions years after their original claim was decided.
The key to a successful increase claim is demonstrating that your condition's current severity meets the criteria for a higher rating under the VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4). This requires updated medical evidence, detailed documentation of how your symptoms have worsened, and a clear understanding of the rating criteria for your specific condition.
Unlike your initial claim, an increase claim focuses on comparing your past condition to your current condition. The VA will order a new Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam to assess your current level of disability. You'll want to provide recent medical records, physician statements, and lay evidence that demonstrate the progression or worsening of your symptoms since your last rating decision.
Eligibility Requirements
Existing Service-Connected Condition
You must already have a service-connected disability rating for the condition you're seeking to increase.
Worsening of Condition
Your condition must have worsened in severity since your last rating decision. Simply wanting a higher rating is not sufficient.
Medical Evidence
You should have recent medical records, treatment notes, or physician statements that document the current severity of your condition.
No Time Limit
You can file for an increase at any time after your initial rating, even decades later. There's no deadline.
Important Risk
Filing for an increase reopens your claim. If the VA determines your condition has improved rather than worsened, they could reduce your rating. Only file if you have solid evidence of worsening.
Key Strategies for Successful Increase Claims
Gather Current Evidence
Obtain recent medical records, treatment notes, and physician statements showing the current severity of your condition.
Know the Rating Criteria
Study the diagnostic code for your condition in 38 CFR Part 4 to understand what symptoms/limitations qualify for higher ratings.
Document Functional Impact
Show how your worsened condition affects your daily life, work, and social functioning with specific examples.
Timing Matters
File as soon as you have evidence of worsening. Your effective date will be the date you file, not when symptoms started worsening.
Rating Increase Process Timeline
File VA Form 21-526EZ
Submit your increase claim online, by mail, or through a VSO. Clearly state which condition(s) you're seeking to increase.
C&P Examination Scheduled
The VA will order a new medical exam to assess your condition's current severity. Attend and be honest about your symptoms.
Rating Decision Issued
VA reviews evidence and issues a decision. They may grant the increase, deny it, or in rare cases, reduce your rating.
Receive Increased Payment (If Granted)
If successful, you'll receive back pay from your filing date and higher monthly payments going forward.
Processing Time Varies
Standard increase claims can take 3-6 months, but may take longer depending on VA workload and complexity. Consider using a VSO to help expedite.
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Online Training Courses
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Learn how to maximize your VA disability rating with our in-depth video training, including modules specifically focused on increase claims and rating optimization.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can the VA reduce my rating if I file for an increase?
Yes. Filing for an increase reopens that condition for review. If the C&P exam shows improvement instead of worsening, the VA could propose a reduction. Only file when you have solid medical evidence that your condition has gotten worse.
How often can I file for a rating increase?
There is no limit on how many times you can file, and there is no waiting period between claims. However, each filing should be supported by new medical evidence showing worsening since your last rating decision.
What evidence do I need for an increase claim?
Recent medical records that document your current symptom severity, treatment notes, physician statements describing functional limitations, and lay statements from you or family members that describe how the condition affects daily life. The more specific, the better.
Will I need a new C&P exam for an increase claim?
Almost certainly. The VA orders a new Compensation and Pension exam to assess the current severity of your condition. This exam is the single biggest factor in whether your increase is granted.
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