A “Sample Letter To VA Requesting A Rating Increase” is a document. It asks the Department of Veterans Affairs to raise your disability rating. You might need this if your service-connected condition has worsened. It’s also useful if new related conditions have appeared.
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Sample Letter To Va Requesting A Rating Increase
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
[VA Regional Office Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
**Subject: Request for Increased Disability Rating**
Dear Department of Veterans Affairs,
I am writing to request a reevaluation of my current disability rating for [Specific Condition(s)]. My VA file number is [Your VA File Number].
Since my last evaluation, my condition has worsened. Specifically, [Describe how your condition has deteriorated. Be specific and provide examples. For instance: “Since my last evaluation for PTSD, I have experienced increased anxiety, panic attacks, and difficulty maintaining employment.” or “My knee pain has significantly increased, limiting my mobility and requiring stronger pain medication.”].
I have attached the following documents as evidence to support my claim:
* [List of medical records, doctor’s reports, or other relevant documentation]
I believe this new evidence clearly demonstrates a significant decline in my health and warrants an increase in my disability rating.
I am available for any further medical examinations or evaluations that you may require. Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
How to Write Letter To VA Requesting a Rating Increase
Subject Line: Concision is Key
- Begin with a direct articulation of the letter’s intent. For example: “Request for Increased Disability Rating – [Your Name] – [Your VA File Number].”
- A clearly defined subject line ensures your letter is appropriately categorized and expedited through the VA’s system.
Salutation: Formal Courteousness
- Opt for a respectful opening. “Dear Department of Veterans Affairs Rating Board,” or “To Whom It May Concern,” are both acceptable.
- Avoid colloquialisms. Professionalism is paramount throughout your correspondence.
Body – Paragraph 1: The Genesis of Your Request
- Start by explicitly stating that you are formally requesting an augmentation of your current disability rating.
- Reference the specific condition(s) for which you are seeking an increased evaluation. Be precise; use the exact terminology the VA employs.
- Include your VA file number and any pertinent claim numbers for easy reference.
Body – Paragraph 2: Substantiating Your Claim
- Detail how your condition has deteriorated since your last rating. Emphasize the functional impact: How does this affect your daily life, your occupational capabilities, and your overall well-being?
- Don’t just list symptoms. Illustrate them with concrete examples. Instead of saying “My back pain is worse,” say “Since the previous rating, the pain in my lower back has intensified, now requiring opioid analgesics and precluding me from standing for more than 30 minutes without acute discomfort.”
Body – Paragraph 3: Medical Mavenry
- Mention any new medical diagnoses or treatments related to your service-connected condition.
- Indicate that you have enclosed (or will be submitting) supporting medical documentation from your physician(s).
- If possible, include nexus letters from your doctor explicitly linking the exacerbation of your condition to your service-connected disability. These are incredibly persuasive.
Enclosures: Fortifying Your Argument
- List all documents you are including with your letter. This might encompass updated medical records, physician statements, therapy notes, or any other evidence corroborating your claim.
- Ensure all documents are legible and clearly labeled for easy identification.
Closing: Professional Sign-off
- Conclude with a polite and professional closing. “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” are appropriate.
- Sign your name legibly and type your full name beneath your signature.
- Include your contact information (phone number and email address) in case the VA needs to reach you for clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting a VA Rating Increase
This section provides answers to common questions regarding the process of requesting an increase to your disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Understanding these FAQs can help streamline your application and ensure you provide the necessary information.
How do I request an increase in my VA disability rating?
You must submit a formal request to the VA, typically using VA Form 20-0995, Decision Review Request: Increased Rating. Include medical evidence that demonstrates your condition has worsened since your last rating decision.
What evidence should I include with my request?
Provide updated medical records, doctor’s reports, and any other documentation that supports your claim of increased disability. Personal statements detailing how your condition impacts your daily life are also beneficial.
Where should I send my request for a rating increase?
Submit your request and supporting documents to the address provided on the VA form or utilize the VA’s online portal, eBenefits, for electronic submission.
What happens after I submit my request?
The VA will review your request and may schedule you for a Compensation & Pension (C&P) examination to assess the current severity of your condition.
How long does it take to receive a decision on my request?
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of your case and the VA’s workload. You can track the status of your claim online through eBenefits or by contacting the VA directly.