Veterans Guide Videos

How To Go From 80% to 100% VA Disability

Video Transcript

If you’re sitting at an 80% VA rating and you’re aiming for 100%, you’re not alone. The pay jump from 80% to 100% is substantial, but getting there isn’t always straightforward. In this video, I’ll show you how to make strategic moves that can help you increase your rating and get the benefits you deserve.

First, let’s understand what makes up your current rating. You might be sitting at 80% for a couple of service-connected conditions, and at first glance, it seems like you’re close. But, in VA math, it’s about more than just adding up percentages.

Take this example: Let’s say you have 50% for PTSD, 10% for tinnitus, and 20% for back pain. VA math doesn’t simply add them up—each new condition is based on what’s left. That 50% PTSD rating doesn’t actually leave you with 50% of your overall disability, so you have to be prepared to approach each condition with care.

So, how do you move from 80% to 100%? The first step is to evaluate your existing ratings. If one of your conditions is under-rated, you can submit evidence—like updated medical records or reports from your doctor—to show that the condition has worsened. For example, if your PTSD rating is at 50%, and you’re experiencing more severe symptoms, you might be able to get it raised to 70%–provided you have proper medical evidence.

Next, look for secondary conditions. These are conditions that stem from your primary service-connected disability. If you already have PTSD, it might be contributing to other issues, like anxiety, depression, or even sleep apnea. Having a secondary condition can increase your total rating.

Finally, the VA’s special monthly compensation can be an important tool for getting to 100%. Even if you’re stuck at 80%, if you have other significant health issues, you may qualify for additional compensation. The key is knowing how to connect these conditions together.

At Veterans Guide, we specialize in helping veterans navigate these complex steps. If you’re stuck at 80% and want to reach 100%, our team is ready to help you gather the right evidence and make a solid case for your increase.

Visit VeteransGuide.org to see how we can assist with your claims and help you reach that 100% rating you deserve.

Featured In This Video:

Robert Hoffman | Veteran Advocate

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