An increased rating claim is a request to raise your current VA disability percentage because a service-connected condition has gotten worse. VA ratings are based on severity, and it’s common for symptoms to change over time—sometimes gradually, sometimes suddenly. When that happens, you may be entitled to a higher rating, which can mean increased monthly compensation (and in some cases, additional benefits tied to higher percentages).

When an increase may make sense

You may have a strong increased rating claim if:

• Your symptoms have worsened in frequency, intensity, or duration

• Your condition now limits your ability to work, sleep, drive, socialize, or handle daily tasks

• You’ve developed new complications or secondary issues related to the same condition

• Your treatment has increased (new medications, injections, surgeries, therapy, ER visits, etc.)

• Your medical records or recent exams show measurable decline

What the VA is really looking for

To win an increased rating, it’s not enough to say things are worse—the VA typically requires clear evidence showing:

• Current severity (often through treatment records, testing, or exams)

• Functional impact (how the condition affects your day-to-day life and work)

• Consistency over time (symptoms supported by records, not just a single snapshot)

This is where many Veterans get stuck. Claims are often denied or underrated because the evidence doesn’t clearly connect symptoms to the rating criteria, the VA relies too heavily on a flawed C&P exam, or key records are missing from the file.

How We Help

We handle increased rating claims and appeals from start to finish—especially when the VA has denied an increase or undervalued the severity of a condition.

When we take a case, we focus on building the kind of record the VA actually uses to decide ratings:

• Identifying the most important medical and service records (and getting what’s missing)

• Developing evidence that speaks directly to the VA’s rating criteria

• Challenging inadequate C&P exams and incorrect reasoning

• Presenting a clear, organized argument that ties the facts to the correct percentage

• Taking appeals through the appropriate lanes when needed

If you’re thinking…

• “My rating hasn’t changed, but I’m clearly worse,” or

• “The VA didn’t listen or didn’t understand how this affects me,”

…you’re not alone—and you may have options.

Talk to a VA Disability Attorney

All of this information is public, and you can absolutely file an increased rating claim on your own. But the reality is: the way the evidence is gathered and presented can make or break the outcome. Our job is to take the burden off you, avoid common pitfalls, and fight for the highest rating the law supports.

If your increased rating claim was denied—or you believe the VA assigned the wrong percentage—we’re ready to help you take the next step.