Service-Connected Conditions
The VA assigns disability ratings using the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities — a federal regulatory system built on specific diagnostic codes. Incomplete C&P exams, missed secondary conditions, and incorrect diagnostic codes are the most common reasons veterans receive ratings lower than they deserve.
Burn Pit & Toxic Exposure
The PACT Act (2022) added 20+ presumptive conditions for burn pit exposure. Veterans deployed to Southwest Asia after 9/11 are now presumed to have been exposed.
Read how the VA rates itHearing Loss & Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the most commonly claimed VA condition. Hearing loss ratings are often too low because audiological testing standards are not met at C&P exams.
Read how the VA rates itHypertension
Hypertension is now a presumptive condition for Agent Orange-exposed veterans. Many Vietnam-era veterans with hypertension were denied before this change.
Read how the VA rates itMilitary Sexual Trauma (MST)
MST claims involve special VA procedures and privacy protections. Alternative evidence standards apply — markers of behavior change can substitute for official records.
Read how the VA rates itOrthopedic — Back, Knee & Shoulder
Range-of-motion ratings are the most common source of underrating in musculoskeletal claims. Secondary radiculopathy is frequently missed.
Read how the VA rates itPTSD — Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD is rated at 0, 30, 50, 70, or 100 percent. Most veterans are underrated because the C&P examiner did not fully capture the frequency and severity of symptoms.
Read how the VA rates itSleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is frequently denied on initial claims but approved on appeal. Secondary connection to PTSD, TBI, or obesity is a common and successful appeal strategy.
Read how the VA rates itTDIU — Total Disability Individual Unemployability
TDIU pays veterans at the 100% rate if service-connected conditions prevent substantially gainful employment — even if the combined rating is below 100%.
Read how the VA rates itTraumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI ratings are complex — cognitive impairment, headaches, and behavioral symptoms each carry separate codes. Secondary conditions like sleep apnea and PTSD are often missed.
Read how the VA rates it