PTSD

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Disability Claims Based on PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD] is often a cause or contributing factor in disability claims filed by veterans. 

A July 2010 VA rule makes it easier to receive those benefits if you have PTSD as a result of events or circumstances in military service.

Why does the VA want to reevaluate my PTSD rating?

Jim,

 

I was med boarded last year for ptsd @ 70% my back @ 20% and a list of other things that have me a 80% rating from the army and 100% from the VA. I was called to schedule a revaluation in the 7 of January. Do you think they are trying to reduce my compensation even with all the evidence that has been presented to them for my condition? The appointment is only for my PTSD all my other disabilities have received their final ratings. I knew at some point they would call me in for a revaluation but is it to attempt to reduce my compensation or to see where they go from there because my condition hasn't improved at all from what my psychiatrist and therapist have said so I'm confused. Is this just routine or are they trying to lower my rating?

 

Reply:

 

It's routine. Almost all PTSD or other mental health ratings are temporary and require future exams. The exam is to determine whether or not you have improved or maybe gotten worse. If you've improved, your rating may be lowered. If you're worse, the rating may increase.

 

It's the law. VA isn't doing this just because, they have to examine you on a regular schedule.

Why didn't I receive a rating with my service connected injury?

Jim;

Thank you in advance.

I just received an answer from a 7 year old claim from a BVA Appeal for a PTSD and Sleep Apnea claim.  I had asked for an increase of PTSD from 50% and service connection for Sleep Apnea.  They denied the PTSD increase but service connected me for Sleep Apnea.  My question is they did not give me a rating for the Sleep Apnea. Is that normal?

What is my rating or how do I get a rating?

 

Reply:

 

BVA doesn't assign ratings. They can establish a service connection and then the claim returns to the regional office to establish the rating. You'll be scheduled for a C & P exam and once that's done a rater will get the file and determine the rating.

Yes, all this may take a while even though it's supposed to be prioritized. Hang in there. If BVA established service connection on a 7 year old claim, you're due at least 7 years of retro at 50%.