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Do You Know the Top 5 Reasons VA Claims are Denied?

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Video Transcript

Do you know why so many VA disability claims get denied? I’m Robert Hoffman with Veterans Guide. Let’s explore the top five reasons VA claims are rejected and how you can avoid them.

Number one: No diagnosed disability
First, you need a diagnosed disability. The VA won’t approve a claim for symptoms alone. For example, if you file for back pain but don’t have a diagnosis like spinal stenosis, your claim could be denied. The VA needs medical evidence showing that your symptoms are linked to a specific condition. A doctor’s diagnosis, along with imaging like X-rays or MRIs, can confirm your condition and strengthen your claim.

Number two: No service connection
Next, your condition must be linked to your service. If you claim PTSD but don’t provide evidence of combat exposure or stressors, the VA may deny your claim due to a lack of service connection. You don’t need PTSD reported during service, but you do need to prove that service-related stressors caused your condition. This can include service records showing combat deployment or exposure to traumatic events, buddy statements from fellow service members who witnessed the event, or medical records from military or civilian doctors linking your PTSD to service.

Number three: Weak evidence
A strong claim requires solid evidence. If you file for tinnitus but lack medical records or a nexus letter from your doctor linking it to your service, your claim may be denied. You can request your military medical records through the National Archives or the VA’s MyHealtheVet portal. A private doctor or VA physician can provide a nexus letter if needed.

Number four: Missed C&P exam
Your Compensation and Pension exam is crucial. This exam evaluates the severity of your condition and its connection to your service. The examiner will focus only on the disabilities you’re claiming, reviewing the medical history, asking questions, and possibly conducting physical or psychological tests. There are no standard tests—each exam is tailored to the specific condition. The results play a major role in your VA rating, so it’s important to be thorough and honest about your symptoms. Missing this appointment could result in automatic denial because the VA uses it to evaluate your condition.

Number five: Pre-existing conditions
Finally, pre-existing conditions can be tricky. The VA may deny claims if they determine that your condition wasn’t worsened by service. The key is proving aggravation through medical evidence. For example, if you had a back injury before enlisting but carrying heavy gear in the service made it worse, you’ll need medical records proving your condition got worse because of your service.

These five reasons can derail a VA claim, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Veterans Guide helps you build strong claims, fight wrongful denials, and understand your potential benefits. Use our VA benefits calculator today to see what you may qualify for, and let us guide you through the process. Call us today at 888-982-10009.

Robert Headshot Photo
Robert Headshot Photo

Featured In This Video:

Robert Hoffman | Veteran Advocate

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Matt is a VA-accredited attorney who co-founded NAVDA in 2023. Matt has helped veterans with the VA disability appeals process since he became accredited in 2021.