How to Increase Your VA Disability Rating

Strategies for getting the rating you deserve

If your service-connected condition has worsened, or you have new conditions, you may be eligible for a higher VA disability rating.

1. File for an Increase

If your condition has worsened since your last rating:

• File a claim for increase
• Provide current medical evidence
• Show how symptoms have progressed

2. Secondary Conditions

A service-connected condition can cause new problems:

• Knee injury → back problems (altered gait)
• PTSD → sleep apnea
• Tinnitus → headaches

3. New Claims

File for conditions not previously claimed:

• Conditions that developed after discharge
• Conditions you didn't know were connected
• Conditions that worsened over time

4. TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)

If you can't work due to service-connected conditions:

• One condition rated 60%+, OR
• Combined rating 70% with one condition 40%+
• Paid at 100% rate

Use Our Calculator

Calculate your combined rating with our VA Combined Rating Calculator.