When you file a claim for service-related disability benefits with the Veterans’ Administration, the VA will review all the medical and other evidence you submit to substantiate your claim. It will then compare those records to the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD) to assign diagnostic codes. Those codes translate into a percentage rating of your overall disability. A higher rating entitles you to more comprehensive benefits.
How does the VA Schedule for Ratings Disabilities Work?
The VASRD includes more than 800 diagnostic codes for medical conditions. For example, a service-related leg injury that limits a veteran’s mobility might be assigned a rating of 20%-40%, and a head or brain injury might be rated at 80%. The VA regional offices designate adjudicators to each claim to analyze an applicant’s medical records and to connect verified disabilities with VASD diagnostic codes.
Throughout this process, an adjudicator might review a variety of evidence, including:
- Medical records from the veteran’s military files and any post-service medical examinations and diagnostic tests.
- The veteran’s service record and reports of events that occurred while the veteran was on active duty.
- Post-service employment and accident records.
The record of a veteran’s claims is collected in their C-file. If you have any questions or concerns about how to submit evidence to develop an effective C-file, consult with an experienced veterans disability attorney.
How are Ratings Assigned if a Veteran has Multiple Disabilities?
The VA does not add separate disability ratings but instead assigns an aggregated rating based on its Combined Rating Table. The aggregated rating is generally less than the sum of the individual ratings.
The “70-40” rule frequently comes into play when a veteran has multiple disabilities. Specifically, when a veteran has two or more disabilities, at least one of them must be rated at 40 percent. If the combined rating is more than 70 percent, they may be eligible for total disability benefits based on their unemployability.
Our experience and knowledge of Veterans’ Disability law will be your greatest asset in preparing and submitting the strongest claim for this rating and benefit.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-562-9830
MARC WHITEHEAD & ASSOCIATES WILL FIGHT FOR YOU
We understand that every day, week and month counts until your disabilities are properly rated and
compensation is received. Since 1992, our firm has been representing injured and disabled people.
Our commitment is to those who have served our country, and our nationwide veterans’ benefit advocates and supporting staff will work hard on your claim. When you’re stuck, frustrated, underrated—our VA accredited attorneys are here for you. Call us today for a free case evaluation, 800-562-9830.
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