VA Disability: How Service Connection and Ratings Work
Learn how to document and pursue the VA disability rating supported by your service-connected conditions and available evidence.
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Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances. Always verify current requirements through official government resources before making decisions.
Who this applies to
- Veterans
- Retired veterans
- Some transitioning service members
What it provides
- Monthly compensation when a condition is found service connected and assigned a compensable rating
- Potential access to additional programs tied to disability status
General eligibility concepts
- A current diagnosed condition
- An in-service event, injury, illness, or exposure
- A medical link between the two (nexus)
- Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances
How it works
- You file a claim identifying the conditions you believe are service connected.
- VA gathers records and may schedule a C&P examination.
- Each condition is evaluated under the rating schedule and assigned a percentage.
- Multiple ratings are combined using VA math rather than simple addition.
Step-by-step
- List every condition you intend to claim.
- Gather service treatment records and current medical records.
- Document symptoms and functional impact over time.
- Consider lay and buddy statements where records are thin.
- File the claim and prepare for any scheduled examination.
- Review the decision letter carefully before choosing a next step.
Documents to gather
- DD-214
- Service treatment records
- Current medical records and diagnoses
- Symptom journal
- Lay or buddy statements
Common mistakes
- Claiming conditions with no supporting documentation
- Missing or rescheduling exams without follow-up
- Understating symptoms during examinations
- Ignoring secondary conditions
Important considerations
- This site does not promise ratings or claim outcomes.
- An accredited representative can assist with claim preparation.
Official sources
Estimated costs, timelines, and income figures are illustrative placeholders only and are not guaranteed.