VA Disability Rating Increase: Evidence, Exams, Risks and Next Steps
Quick answer
If a service-connected condition has gotten worse, you can file a claim for an increased rating using VA Form 21-526EZ (or online). VA rates the condition on how severe it is now, so current medical evidence and an accurate C&P exam matter most. A new review can also lead VA to confirm or, if the evidence supports it, lower a rating, so review your evidence before filing.
Increase claim or decision review?
Use an increase claim when the condition itself has worsened since VA rated it. If you think VA got the original decision wrong, that is a decision review. VA says this directly: if a rated condition has gotten worse, file a claim for increased disability compensation rather than a Supplemental Claim.
What evidence tends to matter
- Current treatment records showing symptoms, frequency and severity, from VA or private providers.
- Functional impact: how the condition affects work, sleep, movement or daily activities.
- Statements from you, family or coworkers describing changes they have observed.
- The rating criteria for your condition in VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities, which explain what each percentage requires.
You do not have to submit evidence (VA can request records and schedule an exam), but the more complete your current picture, the less VA has to infer.
The C&P exam
VA will often schedule a C&P exam to measure current severity. Describe your symptoms honestly and completely, including your worst days and how often they happen. Never exaggerate or minimize; accuracy protects you.
Risks to weigh
An increase claim asks VA to look at the condition again. If the current evidence shows improvement, VA can propose a reduction, with notice and a chance to respond. Some ratings have protections based on how long they have been in place. Review your current medical evidence before filing.
Other ways a rating can go up
- Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition.
- New conditions combined with existing ones (see how combined ratings work).
- TDIU if service-connected conditions prevent substantially gainful work.
- Special Monthly Compensation for certain severe disabilities.
Step by step
- Compare your current symptoms with the rating criteria for your condition.
- Gather recent treatment records and any supporting statements.
- File online or with VA Form 21-526EZ. If you file on paper, an intent to file can set your potential effective date first.
- Attend the C&P exam and keep a copy of what you submitted.
- Check the decision; if you disagree, consider a Higher-Level Review or Supplemental Claim.
Working with someone on your claim? Learn what a VA-accredited representative is and how to verify one before you sign anything.
Common questions
What form do I use for a VA rating increase?
VA Form 21-526EZ, the same application used for disability compensation. You can also file online on VA.gov.
Can VA lower my rating if I ask for an increase?
It can happen if current evidence shows the condition has improved. VA must give notice before reducing a rating, and some long-standing ratings have additional protections.
How long should I wait after a decision to request an increase?
There is no required waiting period. File when the condition has actually worsened and you have current evidence showing it.
Will I need another C&P exam?
Often, yes. VA may also decide based on existing records through its Acceptable Clinical Evidence process.
Does an increase change my combined rating?
Yes. A higher individual rating is recombined with your other ratings using VA’s combined ratings table, which may or may not change your overall percentage.
Is an increase claim the same as an appeal?
No. An appeal (decision review) challenges a prior decision. An increase claim reports that the condition is worse now.