VA Ratings Guide

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  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Kidney Disease in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for Kidney Disease: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 30%, 60%, 80%, 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 Kidney Disease?

    Yes — if your kidney disease 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.

    Kidney Disease Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    30% Moderate-severe symptoms, significant occupational impairment
    60% Severe symptoms, inability to perform most occupational tasks
    80% Near-total occupational and social impairment
    100% Total occupational and social impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your kidney disease has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 kidney disease — 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Sciatica in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for Sciatica: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 10%, 20%, 40%
    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 Sciatica?

    Yes — if your sciatica 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.

    Sciatica Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    10% Mild symptoms, minimal occupational impairment
    20% Moderate symptoms, some occupational impairment
    40% Severe symptoms, considerable occupational impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your sciatica has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 sciatica — 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Bipolar Disorder in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    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

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Fibromyalgia in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for Fibromyalgia: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 20%, 40%
    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 Fibromyalgia?

    Yes — if your fibromyalgia 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.

    Fibromyalgia Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    20% Moderate symptoms, some occupational impairment
    40% Severe symptoms, considerable occupational impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your fibromyalgia has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 fibromyalgia — 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Ischemic Heart Disease in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for Ischemic Heart Disease: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 10%, 30%, 60%, 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 Ischemic Heart Disease?

    Yes — if your ischemic heart disease 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.

    Ischemic Heart Disease Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    10% Mild symptoms, minimal occupational impairment
    30% Moderate-severe symptoms, significant occupational impairment
    60% Severe symptoms, inability to perform most occupational tasks
    100% Total occupational and social impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your ischemic heart disease has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 ischemic heart disease — 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for COPD in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for COPD: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 10%, 30%, 60%, 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 COPD?

    Yes — if your copd 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.

    COPD Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    10% Mild symptoms, minimal occupational impairment
    30% Moderate-severe symptoms, significant occupational impairment
    60% Severe symptoms, inability to perform most occupational tasks
    100% Total occupational and social impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your copd has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 copd — 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Peripheral Neuropathy in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for Peripheral Neuropathy: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 10%, 20%, 40%
    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 Peripheral Neuropathy?

    Yes — if your peripheral neuropathy 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.

    Peripheral Neuropathy Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    10% Mild symptoms, minimal occupational impairment
    20% Moderate symptoms, some occupational impairment
    40% Severe symptoms, considerable occupational impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your peripheral neuropathy has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 peripheral neuropathy — 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Shoulder Conditions in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for Shoulder Conditions: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%
    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 Shoulder Conditions?

    Yes — if your shoulder conditions 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.

    Shoulder Conditions Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    10% Mild symptoms, minimal occupational impairment
    20% Moderate symptoms, some occupational impairment
    30% Moderate-severe symptoms, significant occupational impairment
    40% Severe symptoms, considerable occupational impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your shoulder conditions has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 shoulder conditions — 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Hypertension in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for Hypertension: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 10%, 20%
    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 Hypertension?

    Yes — if your hypertension 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.

    Hypertension Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    10% Mild symptoms, minimal occupational impairment
    20% Moderate symptoms, some occupational impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your hypertension has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 hypertension — 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.

  • How to Increase Your VA Rating for Diabetes in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

    VA Rating Increase for Diabetes: Key Facts

    Available Rating Levels 10%, 20%, 40%
    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 Diabetes?

    Yes — if your diabetes 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.

    Diabetes Rating Levels: What Each Percentage Requires

    Rating General Criteria
    10% Mild symptoms, minimal occupational impairment
    20% Moderate symptoms, some occupational impairment
    40% Severe symptoms, considerable occupational impairment

    Step-by-Step: How to File for a Rating Increase

    1. Document the worsening. See your treating physician and specifically tell them your diabetes has worsened. Get a medical opinion that documents the current severity and states that your condition has progressed since your last VA evaluation.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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 diabetes — 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.