If you’re rated at 40% by the VA, you might feel like your compensation doesn’t fully cover your needs. Many veterans find that their disabilities worsen over time, making them eligible for a higher rating.
Moving from 40% to 100% can mean significant financial and healthcare benefits. However, the process isn’t always straightforward. The VA requires solid medical evidence and a clear demonstration of how your condition impacts daily life.
There are multiple ways to achieve 100%, whether through a rating increase, secondary conditions, or Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU). Understanding the system and presenting a strong case are the driving factors here.
Understanding VA Disability Ratings
The VA uses a percentage-based system to rate disabilities based on how much they impact your ability to work and function. Ratings range from 0% to 100%, with higher ratings leading to greater monthly compensation and additional benefits.
A 40% rating means the VA recognizes your disability as moderately severe, but you may still be able to work. Increasing to 100% requires proving that your condition has worsened or that additional service-connected issues contribute to more significant impairment.
The VA uses a combined rating formula when calculating multiple disabilities. This isn’t a simple addition—two 40% ratings, for example, don’t equal 80%. Instead, the VA combines percentages using a unique formula, making it harder to reach 100%.
To increase your rating, you must file for a review, provide strong medical evidence, and attend a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam.
Filing for a Rating Increase: What You Need to Know
If your condition has worsened, you can request a rating increase by filing a claim with the VA. This process requires substantial medical evidence proving that your disability is more severe than when it was initially rated.
- Start by gathering updated medical records, doctor’s notes, and personal statements about how your disability affects daily life. If you’re receiving private medical care, make sure to submit those records, as the VA won’t automatically have access to them.
- The C&P exam is a crucial part of this process. The VA will schedule this exam to evaluate your condition. Be honest and detailed about your symptoms, and don’t downplay how they impact you.
A poorly documented C&P exam can result in denial or a lower-than-expected increase.
- Even with strong evidence, the VA may still deny or underrate your claim. If that happens, you have the right to appeal.
Many veterans successfully increase their ratings by submitting a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) and providing additional supporting documents.
Filing for a rating increase can take months, but persistence pays off. If your condition meets the criteria for a higher rating, keep pushing forward, and don’t hesitate to seek help from a Veterans’ Service Organization (VSO) or legal representative.
Using Secondary Service Connection to Increase Your Rating
One way to increase your VA disability rating is by linking secondary conditions to your primary service-connected disability. These are conditions that develop as a result of an already-rated disability.
For example, if you have a service-connected knee injury, you might later develop arthritis, back problems, or even depression due to chronic pain. If these conditions are medically linked, the VA can rate them as secondary disabilities, increasing your overall combined rating.
To establish a secondary service connection, you need a medical nexus letter from a doctor stating that your secondary condition was caused or aggravated by your primary disability. VA examiners will review this evidence during the claims process.
It’s important to understand the VA’s combined ratings formula. A new rating won’t necessarily add up in a simple way, but each additional service-connected condition moves you closer to 100%.
Many veterans overlook secondary conditions when filing for an increase. If your primary disability has caused new health issues, it’s worth exploring whether you qualify for additional ratings.
These conditions can make a huge difference in your compensation and overall benefits.
Applying for TDIU: A Path to 100%
If your disabilities prevent you from maintaining substantially gainful employment, you might qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU), which provides 100% compensation even if your rating is below 100%.
TDIU Criteria
TDIU is available if you have a single disability rated at 60% or a combined rating of 70% with at least one condition rated at 40%. However, the key factor is proving that your disabilities prevent you from working.
Evidence Needed
To apply for TDIU, you must submit VA Form 21-8940, along with evidence such as medical records, employment history, and statements from doctors or former employers. The VA may also require a C&P exam to assess your work limitations.
TDIU Benefits
Many veterans are unaware that TDIU provides the same benefits as a 100% disability rating, including full compensation and additional healthcare benefits. Unlike a temporary increase, TDIU can be permanent if your condition is unlikely to improve.
If you’re struggling to work due to your service-connected disabilities, TDIU could be the fastest route to full VA benefits. Even if you don’t meet the rating requirements exactly, applying is still worth it, as extra evidence can strengthen your case.
Strengthening Your Claim with Medical Evidence
Medical evidence is the backbone of any VA disability claim. Without solid documentation, the VA may deny an increase or underrate your condition.
- Start by getting updated medical records from both VA and private doctors. If possible, request detailed notes that explain the severity of your condition. The more specific the records, the stronger your case.
- A nexus letter from a medical professional can also be a game-changer. This letter should clearly state that your disability has worsened or has led to secondary conditions. If you’re applying for TDIU, the doctor should explain how your condition prevents you from working.
- Another valuable piece of evidence is a personal statement describing how your disability impacts your daily life. Include details about pain levels, mobility issues, mental health struggles, or work limitations. Statements from family members, friends, or coworkers can further support your claim.
- During your C&P exam, be completely honest. Describe your worst days rather than focusing on your best. The examiner’s report plays a significant role in your final rating.
Conclusion
Increasing your VA disability rating from 40% to 100% is challenging but possible with the right strategy. Multiple paths can lead to full benefits, whether through a rating increase, secondary conditions, or TDIU.
The key is substantial medical evidence, detailed documentation, and persistence. With the right approach, you can secure the benefits you rightfully deserve for your service-connected conditions.