We are always happy to publish user submissions in our quarterly newsletter. If you have any art, poetry, pictures, or stories from your time in service that you would like to share, please send them to marketing@jsberrylaw.com or your lead attorney.
Increasing Your VA Disability Rating
At some point, you will likely need to return to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to increase your VA disability rating. Many times your rating is too low from the start. Also, your condition will probably worsen over time, either because it is a degenerative illness, or simply due to age or a secondary illness.
A disabled veteran who is receiving benefits may ask the VA for a review of their disability rating at any time. However, te timing of the request is important.
If it has been more than a year since the VA has granted disability benefits, the veteran may make a standard request for reevaluation. The veteran can make the request with a single form authorizing the VA to obtain the vet’s medical records, either:
Form 21-526EZ filed by a Veteran treated by a VA or military health care facility
Form 21-4142 filed by a Veteran treated by a civilian doctor
If it has been less than a year since the VA has granted disability benefits, the request for a new disability rating becomes an appeal of your claim, which is a much more complex process.
The VA must consider medical records from a VA or military hospital that reflect treatment or hospitalization, or records from private or public medical facilities to be valid evidence if they indicate that the veteran’s condition has grown worse.
However, if the VA directs you to undergo a C&P medical exam, you must submit to it or all progress with your claim will come to a halt.
April’s Featured Content
Featured Video: Which Mental Health Disorders are Eligible for VA Compensation?
Please email veterans@jsberrylaw.com
or call (888) 883-2483 when you receive a decision from the VA.
April – Month of the Military Child
April 5 – Gold Star Spouses Day
April 9 – National Former POW Recognition Day
April 14 – Air Force Reserve Birthday
April 21 – Easter
April 23 – Army Reserve Birthday
April 30 – National Military Brats Day
Send a request to marketing@jsberrylaw.com to receive your free copy of The Next Battle by John S. Berry.
If you know a Veteran who needs our help, please let him or her know about our services.
Berry Law
The attorneys at Berry Law are dedicated to helping injured Veterans. With extensive experience working with VA disability claims, Berry Law can help you with your disability appeals.
This material is for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship between the Firm and the reader, and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and the contents of this blog are not a substitute for legal counsel.
Related Posts
Can You Work while receiving TDIU? Understanding VA’s Employment Restrictions
Proving Eligibility for TDIU: The Key Documents You Need
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing VA Form 21-0966
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