Why Filing VA Claims Without Proper Evidence is a Costly Mistake

A Common VA Claim Mistake

A veteran recently sought assistance from a VSO after receiving a denial on a claim. The veteran wanted to file a supplemental claim, hoping for a better outcome. The VSO agreed and submitted two supplemental claims on the veteran’s behalf. However, the VSO failed to include new and relevant evidence—something explicitly required for a supplemental claim. The original denial stated that the claim was missing a Nexus letter, yet the VSO proceeded without addressing this critical issue.

Why would a VSO file a supplemental claim without including the necessary evidence? The answer varies, but in many cases, it comes down to lack of thoroughness, a lack of understanding, or simply not prioritizing the veteran’s best interests.

The Role of a Nexus Letter in VA Claims

For many VA claims, a Nexus letter serves as a crucial piece of evidence. It establishes a link between a veteran’s current medical condition and their military service. If a claim was denied due to a lack of Nexus, filing a supplemental claim without it is a guaranteed path to another denial.

VSOs should be upfront with veterans about the necessity of obtaining medical evidence. Avoiding the conversation because it may involve out-of-pocket costs is not a valid excuse. Veterans deserve to know what is required to support their claims so they can make informed decisions.

The Right Time to Obtain a Nexus Letter

Ideally, a veteran should obtain a Nexus letter before filing their initial claim. If the claim was already denied due to a missing Nexus, the logical next step is to secure that evidence before submitting a supplemental claim. Filing multiple claims without resolving the root issue only leads to delays and frustration.

If a supplemental claim has already been filed without the required evidence, the veteran has two options:

1. Submit the Nexus letter as soon as possible and hope it gets reviewed before the Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam.
2. Withdraw the claim, gather the necessary evidence, and refile with everything in place.

Should You Withdraw a Bad Claim?

Withdrawing a claim is sometimes the smartest move. If a veteran can clearly see that a claim is destined for denial due to missing evidence, it may be better to withdraw it and file a stronger supplemental claim later. The VA operates under strict guidelines, and attempting to submit missing evidence after the fact does not always guarantee a fair review.

Another important step is revoking the Power of Attorney (POA) from any VSO or representative who has mishandled a claim. If a VSO files a claim incorrectly, they still retain the ability to act on the veteran’s behalf until their POA is officially revoked. Ensuring that the only person in control of the claim is the veteran themselves eliminates unnecessary complications.

Final Thoughts

Veterans must be their own best advocates in the VA claims process. While VSOs can be helpful, they do not always provide the level of attention and expertise necessary for a successful claim. Understanding the importance of medical evidence, particularly Nexus letters, and taking proactive steps before filing can save valuable time and effort.

By taking charge of the process, veterans can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure their claims have the best chance of approval the first time around.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and reflects the opinions of the author. Readers should conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making decisions regarding their VA claims.

When dealing with VA claims, every decision can have long-term consequences. Veterans often rely on Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) for guidance, but what happens when these representatives fail to provide the necessary information? Let’s break down a common scenario and explore the best approach to handling VA claims effectively.

For many veterans, service-connected neck and back conditions can lead to secondary health issues that significantly impact daily life. If you’ve recently undergone surgery or experienced chronic pain, it’s crucial to recognize potential secondary conditions that may qualify for additional VA disability compensation.

Don’t Overlook Secondary Conditions

Many veterans experience additional health issues stemming from their primary service-connected conditions. If your neck issues are causing migraines, depression, gastrointestinal problems, or other unexplained symptoms, it’s worth investigating whether they qualify as secondary conditions. Understanding secondary conditions can make a significant difference in your VA disability rating and benefits.

Common Secondary Conditions Linked to Neck and Back Disabilities

Service-connected neck, shoulder, and back conditions can affect various parts of the body, including:

• Hips, Knees, and Ankles – Misalignment or pain can lead to joint problems.
• Feet – Posture changes from back pain can cause foot issues.
• Arms and Hands – Nerve compression may lead to tingling, numbness, or weakness.
• Mental Health – Chronic pain can contribute to depression and anxiety.

One of the most common secondary conditions is radiculopathy, which occurs when nerve roots are compressed, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or legs. Another related condition is peripheral neuropathy, which involves nerve damage leading to tingling, numbness, or pain in the extremities.

Recognizing Symptoms of Secondary Conditions

Symptoms of radiculopathy or neuropathy can include:

• Shooting pain in the legs or arms
• Numbness and tingling in fingers, hands, or feet
• Weakness or loss of motor function
• Chronic discomfort that worsens over time

Many veterans with cervical, thoracic, or lumbar issues experience shooting pain down their legs or arms. If these symptoms develop, it’s crucial to get medical documentation to support a secondary claim.

Key VA Diagnostic Codes for Neck and Back Conditions

Understanding how the VA rates spinal and nerve conditions can help you file a strong claim. Here are some relevant diagnostic codes:

• 5237 – Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain (General back pain conditions)
• 5238 – Spinal Stenosis (Narrowing of the spinal canal pressing on nerves)
• 5239 – Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability (Vertebrae slipping out of place)
• 5240 – Ankylosing Spondylitis (Arthritic disease that causes spinal joints to freeze)
• 5241 – Spinal Fusion (Surgical fusion of vertebrae, or spontaneous fusion due to damage)
• 5235 – Vertebral Fracture or Dislocation (Spinal bone fractures or alignment issues from trauma)

Each of these conditions can contribute to nerve damage, which may qualify for a secondary service connection.

Filing a Secondary Claim for Radiculopathy or Neuropathy

If you are already service-connected for a neck or back condition and develop radiculopathy or neuropathy, you may be eligible for a secondary claim. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. A Diagnosis – A medical professional must confirm radiculopathy or peripheral neuropathy.
2. Symptoms Documentation – Record instances where your symptoms flare up (e.g., difficulty bending over, pain in legs or arms, numbness in fingers or feet).
3. A Nexus Letter – A doctor must provide a medical opinion stating that your secondary condition is “at least as likely as not” caused by your primary service-connected condition.

Get Help with Your VA Claim

Navigating the VA claims process can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you need guidance, consider working with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) such as Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), or American Legion. These organizations offer free assistance in filing VA claims and appealing decisions. You can find a local VSO representative through the VA’s official website: www.va.gov/disability/get-help-filing-claim/.

For additional medical evidence, such as Nexus letters or symptom documentation, visit the VA’s Compensation & Pension (C&P) Examination page: www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/. Filing a well-supported secondary claim can increase your disability rating and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

Final Thoughts

If you’re experiencing symptoms that may be linked to a service-connected condition, don’t ignore them. Secondary conditions like radiculopathy and neuropathy can significantly impact your quality of life, and the VA provides pathways to receive proper compensation. Take proactive steps by gathering medical evidence, consulting with experts, and filing a strong claim to secure the benefits you earned through your service.

Navigating Your VA Disability Claim: What You Need to Know Before Filing

Filing a VA disability claim can be a daunting process, and if you have a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) assisting you, it’s crucial to approach the process with caution. While some VSOs are knowledgeable and helpful, others may lack the necessary expertise or attention to detail required for a successful claim. This is why the best approach is not just to trust—but to verify everything yourself.

In this article, we’ll guide you through essential steps to take before filing your VA disability claim, including understanding the rating system, ensuring proper medical documentation, and avoiding common mistakes that can delay or derail your claim.

Understanding VA Disability Ratings

When you receive a VA decision letter, it will include a breakdown of each condition you claimed, whether it was granted service connection, and the assigned disability rating. Here’s an example of a decision letter:

• Hypertension – Not Service Connected
• Left Shoulder Strain – 20% Service Connected
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – 0% Service Connected
• Caffeine Addiction – Not Service Connected
• Low Testosterone – Not Service Connected
• Tinnitus – 10% Service Connected
• Left Knee Strain – 10% Service Connected
• Unspecified Depressive Disorder & Anxiety Disorder – 50% Service Connected
• Nicotine Addiction – Not Service Connected
• Migraine Headaches – 0% Service Connected

A few key takeaways from this list:

1. Know What’s Recognized

Not every condition is eligible for VA disability benefits. For instance, caffeine and nicotine addiction are not recognized as service-connected conditions. Filing claims for conditions the VA does not compensate for is a waste of time and effort. Before submitting your claim, research which disabilities are recognized and ensure you have a valid basis for filing.

2. Ensure You Have the Three Key Components

To secure service connection, your claim must include:

• A Diagnosis – You need a formal diagnosis from a qualified medical provider.
• A Nexus (Service Connection Link) – This is medical evidence linking your condition to military service.
• Symptom Severity Documentation – The more detailed and well-documented your symptoms are, the better your chances of receiving an appropriate rating.

For example, the veteran above received a 0% rating for both IBS and migraines. This suggests the VA acknowledged these conditions exist but determined that they weren’t severe enough to warrant compensation. This could have happened because the veteran:

• Did not properly document the severity of symptoms.
• Failed to maintain a migraine log.
• Did not report treatment or medication history.
• Underreported symptoms due to military culture discouraging complaints.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, consider appealing and providing a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) with more thorough medical evidence.

3. Understand How Mental Health Ratings Work

The VA assigns a single rating for all mental health conditions, even if you have multiple diagnoses. For example, a veteran with PTSD, anxiety disorder, and major depressive disorder will receive a single rating based on the most severe condition. The veteran in our example received a 50% rating for unspecified depressive and anxiety disorder. If their symptoms meet the criteria for a 70% rating, they should document and report how their conditions impact work, social life, and daily functioning.

How to Strengthen Your Claim Before Filing

1. Check the VA Rating Criteria
   Before filing your claim, review the VA’s rating criteria for your condition to understand what evidence is required to support a higher rating.
2. Get a Nexus Letter
   A Nexus Letter from a medical professional can be crucial, especially for conditions that require a strong service connection argument. If you need assistance obtaining one, visit VeteransBenefitsHub.com to connect with medical professionals who specialize in VA claims.
3. Document Everything

• Maintain medical records, prescription history, and logs of symptoms (e.g., a migraine diary).
• Seek treatment regularly—lack of medical evidence can result in a lower rating.
• Be honest and detailed about how your condition impacts daily life.

4. Work With a Reliable VSO—But Verify Everything
   A good VSO can be a valuable resource, but don’t blindly trust their guidance. Always verify the information they provide and do your own research.

Final Thoughts

Filing a VA disability claim requires preparation and diligence. Understanding the rating system, securing proper medical evidence, and documenting symptom severity can make the difference between approval and denial—or between a 10% rating and a 50% rating. Don’t leave your claim to chance; take control of your VA disability process today!

For more expert guidance, resources, and assistance, visit VeteransBenefitsHub.com.

As a veteran, have you ever wondered if a condition you’re experiencing might be linked to your service-connected disabilities or your military service? In this article, we’ll explore how to identify potential connections between various health conditions, utilizing tools like ChatGPT to assist in your research.

Understanding Secondary Conditions

A secondary condition is a disability that arises as a result of another service-connected condition. For instance, if you have a service-connected knee injury that leads to back problems due to altered gait, the back issues may be considered secondary to the knee injury. Recognizing these connections is crucial for VA disability claims, as it can impact your benefits.

Leveraging AI Tools for Research

One effective method to explore potential links between conditions is by using AI tools like ChatGPT. This approach is free, user-friendly, and can provide valuable insights. Here’s how you can utilize ChatGPT in your research:

1. Access ChatGPT: Navigate to ChatGPT and log in with your free account. No subscription is necessary unless you desire advanced features.
2. Enable Advanced Features: In the chat interface, activate the “Search” and “Reason” features. The “Search” function allows ChatGPT to incorporate up-to-date web search results, while the “Reason” feature enhances its analytical capabilities.
3. Formulate Your Query: Craft your question in an open-ended manner to avoid introducing bias. For example: “Are there peer-reviewed scientific studies showing a causal relationship between depression and migraine headaches?” This phrasing ensures that the AI searches for scientific journal articles rather than general websites.
4. Review the Response: ChatGPT will process your query and provide an analysis, including citations to relevant studies. You can click on these citations to read the original articles. If the scientific jargon is overwhelming, consider reading the abstract or discussion sections for a summary. Alternatively, you can ask ChatGPT to explain the findings in simpler terms.

Example Queries

To illustrate, let’s consider two scenarios:

• Positive Association: You might ask, “Are there peer-reviewed scientific studies showing a causal relationship between depression and migraine headaches?” ChatGPT may find studies indicating a causal link, providing summaries and citations for further reading.
• No Established Causal Relationship: Conversely, you could inquire, “Are there peer-reviewed scientific studies showing a causal relationship between tinnitus and obstructive sleep apnea?” In this case, ChatGPT might inform you that, while some studies suggest an association, a definitive causal relationship has not been conclusively established.

Exploring Service-Related Exposures

You can also use ChatGPT to investigate potential connections between military service exposures and health conditions. For example: “Are there peer-reviewed scientific studies showing a causal relationship between Agent Orange and dementia?” ChatGPT can provide information on studies examining such links, aiding in your understanding of potential service-related health issues.

Important Considerations

While AI tools like ChatGPT are valuable for preliminary research, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to interpret findings and understand their implications for your health. Additionally, be aware that some studies may be behind paywalls, and the AI might not access all available information.

Conclusion

Utilizing AI tools can be a practical approach to exploring potential connections between health conditions, especially when preparing for VA disability claims related to secondary conditions. Remember to verify the information with a healthcare professional and consider the limitations of AI-generated content.

This article is based on informatuon shared by Dr. Sharma, Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Air Force Veteran

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Filing a VA disability claim is just the beginning of the journey toward securing the benefits you rightfully deserve. While gathering medical evidence and submitting a well-documented claim is crucial, the most critical day in the entire process comes after submission—the Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam. This examination is your opportunity to present your case directly to a VA-appointed examiner, and how you approach it can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.

Understanding the Importance of the C&P Exam

Once you file your VA claim and submit all supporting evidence, much of the process is out of your hands. The VA will review your claim, but the C&P exam is the only time you have direct involvement in demonstrating your disability and its impact on your daily life. Whether the exam lasts five minutes or two hours, preparation is key to ensuring a favorable result.

Establishing Service Connection: Direct vs. Secondary Claims

Before attending your C&P exam, it’s crucial to understand the basis of your claim. Are you filing for a direct service connection (where the disability stems directly from military service), or a secondary service connection (where a service-connected condition has led to another disability)? If you’ve been out of service for more than 12 months, establishing a clear nexus between your military service and your condition becomes even more critical.

A successful claim requires:

• A diagnosis of the condition
• Medical evidence supporting the claim
• A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking your condition to service
• Documented symptoms and their impact on your daily life

What Happens During a C&P Exam?

The VA assigns a C&P examiner to assess your disability claim. This individual does not work for you—they are paid by the VA to evaluate your condition, not to provide treatment. Their job is to examine you and report their findings to the VA claims adjudicators.

The examiner may:

• Review your medical history and claim documentation
• Ask you detailed questions about your symptoms and limitations
• Conduct physical or psychological evaluations relevant to your claim

Since this examiner’s report plays a major role in the VA’s final decision, it’s essential to approach the exam strategically.

How to Prepare for Your C&P ExamcExam

One of the best ways to prepare is by reviewing the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) for your specific condition. This form outlines exactly what the VA is looking for, allowing you to anticipate questions and provide precise answers.

Key preparation steps include:

1. Know your claim details – Stick to discussing only the condition(s) being evaluated.
2. Be honest and concise – Answer questions directly without exaggerating or minimizing symptoms.
3. Avoid volunteering unnecessary information – If asked a yes-or-no question, keep it that way.
4. Discuss your functional limitations – Explain how your disability affects your daily life and ability to work.
5. Do not downplay your symptoms – This is not the time to act tough; be clear about the challenges you face.

What NOT to Do at Your C&P Exam

• Do not lie or exaggerate – The examiner will cross-check your responses with your medical records.
• Do not discuss conditions not relevant to the exam – If you filed for PTSD, don’t start talking about your back pain.
• Do not offer unnecessary details – Stay focused on the specific disability being evaluated.
• Do not assume the examiner is on your side – Their job is to assess, not advocate.

Final Thoughts: Nail Your C&P Exam

Your C&P exam is arguably the most important day after you file your VA claim. It determines how the VA will view your condition, so taking the right approach is essential. Be prepared, stay focused, and ensure you present your case effectively.

For more guidance on the VA claims process and securing the right medical evidence, visit VeteransBenefitsHub.com.

The VA has proposed updates to the disability rating criteria for conditions like sleep apnea. If implemented, the changes would adjust ratings based on the effectiveness of treatments and modern medical knowledge. The proposed criteria for sleep apnea ratings are:

• 0%: Veterans asymptomatic with or without treatment.
• 10%: Veterans with a diagnosis who receive treatment providing incomplete relief.
• 50%: Veterans with a diagnosis receiving ineffective treatment or unable to use treatment due to comorbid conditions without end-organ damage.
• 100%: Veterans with a diagnosis receiving ineffective treatment or unable to use treatment due to comorbid conditions with end-organ damage.

The aim is to reflect advancements in treatment and ensure accurate compensation. Veterans currently rated under the existing system or with pending claims will not be affected. However, future claims will be evaluated under the new criteria. Filing a claim now may secure a rating under current guidelines. Additional evidence can also be submitted through supplemental claims to adjust ratings if warranted​

For more details, visit the VA’s official update page: VA News.

The U.S. Supreme Court recently heard arguments regarding how the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) handles disability claims when the evidence for approval or denial is evenly balanced.

This case, Bufkin v. McDonough, involves the “benefit-of-the-doubt rule,” which mandates that when evidence is equally weighted, the decision should favor the veteran.

At the center of the case are veterans Joshua Bufkin and Norman Thornton, who filed separate disability claims that were denied, even though the supporting and opposing evidence was equally balanced. Bufkin, who served in the Air Force from 2005 to 2006, sought benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but conflicting medical opinions led to his claim being denied. Thornton, an Army veteran who served from 1988 to 1991, was denied a higher disability rating for his service-connected injuries.

Their claims progressed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims and later to the Federal Circuit, where the rulings were upheld. The veterans argue that the courts failed to consistently apply the benefit-of-the-doubt rule. Attorneys for Bufkin and Thornton pointed out that despite presenting equal evidence both for and against their claims, they were denied benefits.

The Supreme Court is now tasked with deciding whether the benefit-of-the-doubt rule should be uniformly applied in all cases, especially when evidence is closely balanced. A decision is expected next summer.

The veterans’ legal team contends that inconsistent application of the rule has harmed many veterans, with similar cases receiving contradictory rulings. They argue that this inconsistency has denied veterans the benefits they rightfully earned. The case raises questions about the fairness and consistency of the veterans’ claims process, especially for veterans who represent themselves in court.

On the other side, the VA’s attorneys have described enforcing the benefit-of-the-doubt rule as unnecessary, arguing that it could create redundant work for the veterans appeals court. However, advocates for veterans, including several organizations that filed supporting briefs, argue that this rule is a vital part of the VA’s review process, ensuring that veterans receive the benefits they deserve when the evidence is inconclusive.

The case underscores the ongoing debate over how the VA and the courts handle veterans’ claims, and its outcome could have far-reaching implications for veterans seeking disability benefits in the future.

Source: stripes.com

Veterans can now conveniently access important VA letters and notices online via VA.gov, including documents that outline the evidence required to support disability claims.

Expanded Access to Decision Letters

The VA has broadened the range of documents available online, making it easier for Veterans to stay informed about the evidence needed for their claims. This expansion includes notices and follow-up development letters that provide details about the necessary documentation and how it can support a claim.

Why Access Letters Online?

While the VA will continue to mail paper copies, accessing your letters online offers several key advantages:

• Faster Information: No more waiting for the mail—get instant access to important updates.
• Convenience: Save time and avoid the need to contact the VA for information.
• Digital Storage: Keep letters securely in digital format and reduce paper clutter.

How to Access Your Decision Letters Online

Veterans with a VA.gov account can quickly view their decision letters by following these steps:

1. Log in to VA.gov.
2. Navigate to “VA Benefits and Health Care,” then select “Disability.”
3. Click on “Check your claim or appeal status.”
4. Find a closed claim and select it.
5. Click “Get your claim letters,” and the letter will open in a new window, ready to be printed or saved as a PDF.

If you require assistance navigating this process just click here:  view the instructional video that walks you through the steps

Enhancing VA’s Digital Services

The VA is continually improving its online tools to make it easier for Veterans to manage their benefits. To learn more about the decision letter download feature, check out the Claims Status Tool FAQs.

In this article, we will explore the top three conditions that VA rating specialists often see veterans claim as secondary to their service-connected sleep apnea.

A Word of Caution:

Before diving in, it’s important to note that nothing is guaranteed in the VA claims process. If someone claims they can guarantee a favorable outcome, they are likely misleading you. There have been many cases where VA rating specialists thought a claim would be approved, only for it to be denied. On the other hand, claims that seemed far-fetched have sometimes been approved. Keep this in mind when submitting claims for secondary conditions.

For secondary conditions, it is essential to provide a Nexus statement—a document prepared by a medical professional that explains how your condition is linked to your military service. Veterans have the option of undergoing a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam or having their private doctor complete a public Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ), available on the VA’s website.

The Top 3 Conditions Claimed Secondary to Sleep Apnea:

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

The first condition commonly claimed as secondary to sleep apnea is hypertensive vascular disease, also known as hypertension. Let’s focus on the 10% rating criteria, as this often causes confusion. For a 10% rating, one of the following must be true:

• Diastolic pressure is predominantly 100 or more
• Systolic pressure is predominantly 160 or more
• There is a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, and continuous medication is required for control.

It’s essential to meet both requirements for a 10% rating in the third scenario: a history of diastolic pressure of 100 or more and the need for continuous medication. Veterans can track their blood pressure at home and keep a spreadsheet as evidence. If you believe you meet the criteria for a 20% rating (diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more or systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more), providing your own records or notes from your doctor is crucial.

Additionally, hypertension or isolated systolic hypertension must be confirmed by readings taken on two or more occasions over at least three different days. So, whether you are monitoring your own blood pressure or having a private doctor or VA doctor take readings, proper documentation is essential.

2. Diabetes Secondary to Sleep Apnea

The second condition often claimed as secondary to sleep apnea is diabetes mellitus, particularly Type 2 diabetes. For these claims, you need a medical professional to provide a diagnosis and a rationale linking the diabetes to sleep apnea via a Nexus statement.

It’s not a bad idea to research medical studies or literature supporting this connection—sources like the Mayo Clinic often provide valuable insights. Additionally, you can refer to the Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 DBQ, which can guide your claim.

In this form, Section 3A asks if the veteran has any recognized complications of diabetes, such as:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (affecting the upper or lower extremities)
• Diabetic nephropathy or renal dysfunction
• Other complications

Section 3B asks if any of these conditions are “at least as likely as not” caused by diabetes, which constitutes a secondary medical opinion.

If you’re dealing with other conditions like hypertension, stroke, skin conditions, or eye conditions, these can also be linked through secondary conditions, sometimes referred to as “stacking.” In this case, the doctor completing the DBQ must provide a clear rationale in the remarks section explaining how they reached their conclusions.

3. Depression Secondary to Sleep Apnea

The third common condition linked to sleep apnea is depression. Veterans claiming depression secondary to sleep apnea must clearly explain to the C&P examiner how their sleep apnea contributes to their mental health condition.

For instance, you could describe how severe snoring or breathing issues force you and your spouse to sleep in separate bedrooms, which may impact your emotional well-being and relationship. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders to determine if you meet the criteria for a 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100% disability rating.

There are proposed changes to these criteria coming in April 2025, so be sure to stay updated if you’re pursuing a mental health claim.

Conclusion:

These are the top three conditions that VA rating specialists frequently see veterans claim as secondary to their service-connected sleep apnea: Hypertension, Diabetes, and Depression. Many veterans succeed in their claims by submitting private evidence or attending a C&P exam.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes and should not be considered professional legal or medical advice. While the author has had a successful VA rating outcome, veterans should conduct their own research and apply the relevant findings to their specific cases.