How Does the VA Rate PTSD?

How does the VA rate PTSD? The bottom line is that the law requires the V.A. to follow a rating schedule. The V.A. rates Post-traumatic stress disorder just like any other disability, there is a rating scheme. A veteran may be service connected for: 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, 100% based on the severity of the Post-traumatic stress disorder. If you are curious for the different definitions behind each percentage, please refer to our explanation in the blog post for FAQ #5.

Within that criteria, there are social and occupational factors that considered.  Also, the severity and the frequency of which some of those symptoms are encountered are also considered by the V.A. There are a few different ways that that you, as a veteran, can provide evidence of your PTSD to the VA.

1. A Compensation and Pension exam

• This is when you meet with a VA psychiatrist and explain your experience in combat and how it has affected you. It is important to be honest and not just respond with simple yes/no answers but rather expand and describe your specific symptoms. The more honest information that you give, the better the psychiatrist will be able to diagnose the severity of your PTSD. If you are curious about learning more about a C&P exam, please refer to FAQ #25.

2. Personal Statement

• When you apply for benefits or for an increased rating, a personal statement can help give the VA a better sense of how your PTSD affects you. You can discuss symptoms and how they impact your day-to-day life, whether it is at work, at home, or with personal relationships. Describing a typical day for you and being specific is encouraged.

3. Supporting Statements

• Having a family friend or loved one can help with your rating as well if they can also explain how PTSD impacts your life as well as your relationships. They may also provide insight that you yourself might not be aware of. Just remember, these statements should always include this sentence at the end: ”This statement is true and correct to the best of the writer’s knowledge and belief” and be signed and dated.

4. Tracking Symptoms

• If you keep a record of your symptoms and how they change over time, you can submit this record along with your application for benefits.

5. Performance Evaluations

• These can be filled out by a boss or coworker in order to track how you have been performing at work. If you have had any issues with productivity or efficiency at work, this is something that would be helpful to include.