VA disability benefits are not always permanent. In many cases, the VA requires periodic reevaluations to determine whether your condition has improved, worsened, or remained the same.
These reviews can impact your disability rating and benefits, so it’s essential to understand when and why they happen.
Knowing the VA’s reevaluation process helps you stay prepared and avoid unexpected rating changes. Some veterans may never need another exam, while others might face a review every few years.
Understanding the factors that trigger reevaluations will give you a clearer picture of what to expect and how to protect your benefits.
When Does the VA Require a Disability Reevaluation?
The VA typically schedules disability reevaluations for conditions that may improve over time. These reviews ensure that veterans receive compensation that accurately reflects their current level of disability.
Generally, the VA may require a reevaluation if:
- Your condition is expected to improve with treatment.
- You received a temporary 100% disability rating.
- Your last evaluation suggested the need for a future review.
Most scheduled reevaluations happen within 2 to 5 years of your initial rating decision. However, if the VA determines your condition is permanent and total (P&T) or unlikely to improve, they may waive future reviews.
Certain conditions rarely require reevaluation, such as amputations, blindness, or severe neurological disorders. Additionally, veterans over 55 years old or those with a rating that has remained unchanged for 20 years or more are less likely to face routine reviews.
While scheduled reevaluations are standard, unscheduled reviews may occur if the VA receives evidence that your condition has improved—such as new medical reports or employment records.
Signs That You May Be Up for a Reevaluation
Even if the VA hasn’t notified you of a reevaluation yet, certain signs may indicate one is coming. Paying attention to these factors can help you stay ahead of the process and avoid surprises.
You Received a Temporary Rating
If the VA assigned a temporary 100% disability rating (after surgery or hospitalization), you will likely face a reevaluation once the recovery period ends.
The VA will assess whether your condition still meets the criteria for the temporary rating or if it should be reduced.
Your Condition Is Marked for Review
If your original rating decision includes a note stating “future examination required,” the VA has already scheduled a future reevaluation. These typically occur within 2 to 5 years of your initial rating.
Your Medical Records Show Improvement
If you have been undergoing treatment and your medical records suggest a significant improvement, the VA may schedule a reevaluation. This is especially true if a recent Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam or VA doctor’s report indicates better functionality.
You Return to Work or Increase Activity
If the VA receives evidence that you’ve returned to work or become more physically active, they may reassess whether your disability rating is still accurate. This is more common for conditions affecting mobility or employability.
You Haven’t Had a Review in Years
If your disability rating has not been reviewed for a long time and your condition was not classified as permanent, the VA may conduct a routine check to ensure your rating is still justified.
What to Expect During a VA Disability Reevaluation
If the VA schedules a reevaluation, you will likely need to attend a C&P exam. This exam is conducted by a VA doctor or a contracted medical provider to assess your current condition.
During Examination
The doctor will review your medical history during the exam, ask about your symptoms, and perform any necessary tests. They may also evaluate whether your condition has improved, worsened, or remained stable since your last review.
Post Examination
After the exam, the VA will review the findings and determine if your disability rating should change. A rating reduction is possible if the exam shows significant improvement.
However, if your condition has worsened or remained the same, your rating will likely stay the same or even increase.
Preparation Tips
Reevaluations can be stressful, but preparing in advance can help. Keep detailed medical records, attend regular doctor visits, and describe your symptoms accurately during the exam.
If you believe the VA is underestimating your condition, you can challenge their decision by providing additional medical evidence or filing an appeal.
How to Prepare for a VA Reevaluation Exam
A VA reevaluation exam can impact your disability rating, so proper preparation is key. Taking the right steps beforehand can ensure the VA gets an accurate assessment of your condition.
- First, review your medical history. Ensure your records are up to date, including recent doctor visits, treatments, and prescriptions. The VA relies on this information to assess changes in your condition.
- Second, be honest but clear when describing your symptoms. If your condition causes pain, mobility issues, or other limitations, explain how it affects your daily life, work, and routine activities. Avoid downplaying or exaggerating symptoms.
- Third, bring supporting evidence if possible. Medical records, X-rays, prescriptions, and even personal journals documenting your symptoms can strengthen your case. If you see a private doctor, request a statement summarizing your condition.
- Finally, prepare for physical exams if required. Depending on your condition, the doctor may test your range of motion, reflexes, or other physical abilities. If you experience pain or discomfort, inform them immediately.
What to Do If Your VA Disability Rating Is Reduced
A rating reduction can be frustrating, especially if your condition has not improved. However, you have options to challenge the VA’s decision and protect your benefits.
- First, review the VA’s decision letter carefully. The letter should explain why your rating was reduced and what evidence the VA used to make its determination. Check for any missing or incorrect information.
- If you disagree with the decision, file an appeal. You can submit a Higher-Level Review, a Supplemental Claim, or appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.
Gathering strong medical evidence, such as updated doctor reports or new test results, can help support your case.
- Another option is to request a new C&P exam. If you believe the original exam was rushed or inaccurate, a second evaluation may provide a more thorough assessment of your condition.
- While waiting for the appeal process, continue seeing your doctor and documenting symptoms. You can request an increased rating based on new medical evidence if your condition worsens.
A rating reduction is not the final word. With the right steps, you can fight the decision and work to restore or even increase your VA benefits.
Conclusion
VA reevaluations are a standard part of the disability benefits process but don’t always result in a rating reduction. Understanding when and why the VA reviews claims can help you prepare for exams and protect your benefits.
And if your rating is unfairly reduced, you have the right to appeal and present new evidence.