Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a debilitating mental health disorder that is unfortunately common in military veterans, negatively affecting their lives.
VA PTSD disability ratings are essential for getting the financial assistance that is so critical to sufferers of this condition.
Yet going through the VA PTSD disability claims process can be troublesome for many.
These tips from VA PTSD disability claims experts can help veterans understand the process better so they might get through it more easily and with greater success.
PTSD Ratings Are On A Percentage Basis
Firstly, VA PTSD disability ratings are made on a percentage basis like other disability ratings, but the scale is somewhat different.
In standard VA disability ratings, the degree of disability is rated from 0% to 100% in 10% increments.
VA PTSD disability claims are rated at 0%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100%.
Among these ratings, 30% is considered mild and treatable with medication and therapy, 50% is more significant with some effect on work and daily life, 70% means a veteran’s PTSD causes significant difficulty in their work and personal life, and 100% suggests the veteran is not able to function normally due to their PTSD.
Benefits Awarded Based on Disability Rating
Like all other VA claims, benefits are awarded based on the disability rating the veteran receives after their claim is reviewed and their C&P exam is complete.
When ratings are low or the veteran believes it should be higher, they can appeal the decision and seek a new rating.
Many times, low ratings happen when veterans attempt to downplay their symptoms or the true severity of their occupational and social impairment.
As difficult as it might be, VA PTSD disability claims experts stress the importance of veterans being honest about their symptoms and how significantly they are affected by their PTSD.
How Is A Denial Appealed?
When a veteran receives a denial letter or a low rating for their VA PTSD disability claim and an appeal is necessary, it is important to gather supporting evidence to help to illustrate the level of impairment being experienced.
Veterans should consider seeking help from a VA PTSD disability claims expert who can help them prepare their claim and include evidence such as buddy statements, occupational statements from work, full medical history and records, and any other related evidence.
Seek Help Handling PTSD Disability Claims
PTSD is a terrible condition that many veterans combat every day. VA PTSD disability benefits are available to those who receive disability ratings based on their degree of impairment.
Veterans receiving denial letters or who feel as though their rating is too low should seek the assistance of an experienced VA PTSD disability claims expert who can help them appeal the decision and seek a more appropriate benefits rating.