Getting your VA claim denied for flat feet can be frustrating, but don’t lose hope just yet. Many veterans face this setback, but there are ways to challenge the decision and get the benefits you deserve.
The VA does recognize flat feet, or pes planus, as a service-connected disability, but proving its severity and connection to your military service is crucial. If your claim was denied, it’s likely due to missing evidence or a misunderstanding of the rating criteria.
In this guide, we’ll break down the VA’s rating system for flat feet, common denial reasons, and the next steps you can take.
Understanding the VA’s Rating Criteria for Flat Feet
The VA rates flat feet based on severity and how much the condition impacts your daily life. The rating percentages range from 0% to 50%, depending on symptoms like pain, swelling, and deformity.
A 0% rating means the condition is present but not severe enough to qualify for disability compensation. A 10% rating is given for moderate cases where pain occurs with prolonged standing or walking.
If you have severe symptoms, such as significant pain, swelling, and noticeable foot deformity, the VA may assign a 30% rating for both feet or 20% if only one foot is affected.
The highest rating, 50%, is for pronounced flat feet with extreme tenderness, marked inward displacement, and severe spasms of the Achilles tendon that don’t improve with orthopedic support.
To qualify for compensation, you must show that your flat feet resulted from or were aggravated by your military service. If the VA doesn’t find enough medical evidence linking your condition to service, they may deny your claim.
Reasons for Flat Feet VA Claim Denial
If your flat feet claim was denied, the VA likely found issues with your application. One common reason is the lack of medical evidence. The VA needs clear documentation showing that your flat feet developed during or worsened due to military service.
Another reason is the failure to prove service connection. The VA may reject the claim if you didn’t provide medical records, service treatment notes, or doctor’s opinions linking your condition to active duty.
Some claims get denied because the VA doesn’t consider the condition severe enough. If your symptoms don’t meet the criteria for at least a 10% rating, they might acknowledge your condition but not grant compensation.
In some cases, a claim may be denied due to incomplete or incorrect paperwork. Missing deadlines, failing to submit required forms, or not attending a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam can all hurt your claim.
Even if your claim was denied, you still have options. In the following sections, we’ll go over what you can do to strengthen your case.
What to Do After a VA Claim Denial for Flat Feet
A denied VA claim isn’t the end of the road—it’s just a hurdle. The first thing you should do is carefully review the VA’s denial letter. This letter explains why your claim was rejected and what evidence the VA found insufficient.
If the denial was because of missing medical records, you must gather additional supporting documents. This can include:
- Service treatment records
- Private doctor evaluations and,
- Buddy statements from fellow service members who can confirm your condition started or worsened during service
Another step is to request a copy of your C&P exam results if you have one. Sometimes, these exams contain errors or incomplete assessments that downplay your symptoms.
If you find discrepancies, you can challenge them with new medical opinions from podiatrists or orthopedic specialists.
If the VA denied your claim because they don’t believe your condition is severe enough, consider getting a nexus letter from a qualified doctor. This letter connects your flat feet to your military service and explains why you deserve a higher rating.
You have one year from the denial date to file an appeal. The sooner you act, the better. Understanding your denial and preparing stronger evidence will put you in a better position when requesting a review.
In the next section, we’ll discuss the different appeal options and how to choose the best path forward to fight for your benefit.
How to Appeal a Denied Flat Feet VA Claim
If your flat feet claim was denied, you can appeal the decision instead of starting over. The VA offers three appeal options: Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, and Board Appeal.
- A Higher-Level Review is when a more experienced VA reviewer examines your claim.
You can request this if you believe the VA made an error in their decision. However, you can’t submit new evidence with this option.
- A Supplemental Claim allows you to provide new and relevant evidence to support your case. This is a good option if your claim was denied due to a lack of medical proof or service connection.
Submitting additional medical opinions, a nexus letter, or updated treatment records can strengthen your case.
- A Board Appeal is when a Veterans Law Judge reviews your claim. This option takes the longest but may be necessary if your case is complex or you believe a legal error was made. You can also request a hearing to present your case directly.
Choosing the right appeal depends on why your claim was denied. A Supplemental Claim is likely your best bet if there was a lack of evidence. If you suspect the VA made a mistake, a Higher-Level Review could work.
Whichever route you take, make sure to submit your appeal within the one-year deadline and provide concrete supporting documents. A well-prepared appeal increases your chances of getting the benefits you rightfully deserve.
Gathering Evidence for an Appeal
A strong appeal starts with solid evidence. If your claim was denied due to a lack of medical proof, now is the time to gather new and compelling documentation to support your case.
One of the most potent pieces of evidence is a nexus letter from a medical professional. This letter should clearly explain-
- How your flat feet are connected to your military service and
- Why you deserve a higher rating
It should be detailed, addressing the VA’s concerns from the denial letter.
If your C&P exam results didn’t reflect the severity of your condition, consider getting an independent medical opinion from a specialist, such as a podiatrist. A second opinion can provide additional medical justification for your claim.
Personal statements can also be helpful. You can submit a statement in support of your claim, describing how your flat feet impact your daily life. Statements from family members or fellow service members can further strengthen your case.
If your condition has worsened since your initial claim, update your treatment records. Submitting new medical records showing ongoing pain, mobility issues, or worsening symptoms can help justify a higher disability rating.
The key is to provide clear, undeniable proof that your flat feet are service-connected and more severe than the VA previously recognized.
What Happens After Submitting an Appeal?
Once you submit your appeal, the VA will review your case based on the option you selected. A senior reviewer will reassess your claim if you choose a Higher-Level Review.
A Supplemental Claim will be reviewed with any new evidence you provide. A Board Appeal will go to a Veterans Law Judge.
Appeal processing times vary. Higher-level reviews and Supplemental Claims may take several months, while Board Appeals can take over a year.
While waiting, keep an eye on your claim status through VA.gov. If the VA requests additional information, respond quickly to avoid delays. Patience and persistence are key during this process.
Conclusion
A denied VA claim can be frustrating, but it’s not the final say. Whether you choose a Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board Appeal, the goal is to present the strongest case possible.
Stay proactive, meet deadlines, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. The VA system can be complex, but with persistence and the right approach, you can fight for the benefits you deserve.
Your service matters, and so does your claim. Keep pushing forward.