VA Rating Increase for Bipolar Disorder: Key Facts
| Available Rating Levels | 30%, 50%, 70%, 100% |
|---|---|
| How to Request Increase | File a Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995) with new evidence |
| What Triggers an Increase | Worsening symptoms documented by a physician |
| Processing Time | 4–6 months average for supplemental claims |
| Back Pay if Granted | From the date VA received your supplemental claim |
Can You Increase Your VA Rating for Bipolar Disorder?
Yes — if your bipolar disorder has worsened since your last VA rating, you are entitled to a higher rating. VA is required to rate your condition at its current severity, not at the severity it was when you were first rated. Many veterans continue living with a rating that no longer reflects how bad their condition has become, leaving significant compensation on the table.
Bipolar Disorder Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | General Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Moderate-severe symptoms, significant occupational impairment |
| 50% | Severe symptoms, reduced reliability and productivity |
| 70% | Deficiencies in most areas — work, school, family relations |
| 100% | Total occupational and social impairment |
Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase
- Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your bipolar disorder has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
- Request a copy of your current rating decision. Review the criteria VA used to assign your current rating. Identify which criteria you now meet at a higher level.
- File VA Form 20-0995 (Supplemental Claim). This is the correct lane for rating increases when you have new evidence (updated medical records showing worsening). Do not file a new initial claim.
- Submit new and relevant evidence. This includes updated medical records, a physician’s statement documenting worsening, buddy statements from family members or coworkers, and any hospitalizations or emergency visits related to your condition.
- Attend your C&P exam. VA will likely schedule a new C&P exam to evaluate your current severity. Describe your worst days — not your average days.
What Counts as “New and Relevant Evidence” for a Rating Increase
- Updated medical records showing worsening symptoms or new complications
- A physician’s letter explicitly stating your condition has worsened and documenting current severity
- Hospitalization records, emergency room visits, or specialist referrals related to your condition
- Buddy statements from family, friends, or coworkers describing how your condition has changed
- Employment records showing missed work, reduced hours, or job loss due to your condition
- A private DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire) completed by your treating physician
Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU): The Alternative Path to 100%
If your bipolar disorder — alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions — prevents you from maintaining substantially gainful employment, you may qualify for TDIU. TDIU pays at the 100% rate even if your combined rating is below 100%. To qualify, you generally need a single condition rated at 60% or higher, or a combined rating of 70% or higher with at least one condition at 40%. TDIU is often faster to obtain than a schedular 100% rating.
Leave a Reply