A “Sample Letter To VA Requesting A Rating Increase” is used to ask the VA to re-evaluate your disability rating. You might need this letter if your service-connected condition has worsened. It’s also needed if new medical evidence supports a higher disability rating.
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Sample Letter To Va Requesting A Rating Increase
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
P.O. Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Request for Increase in Disability Rating
Dear Department of Veterans Affairs,
I am writing to request an increase in my current disability rating. My VA claim number is [Your VA Claim Number].
I believe my service-connected disabilities have worsened since my last evaluation. Specifically, I am experiencing [Describe the specific symptoms and conditions that have worsened. Be detailed and provide examples of how these conditions affect your daily life. For example: increased pain, decreased mobility, more frequent episodes, etc.].
I am including the following documentation to support my request:
[List any medical records, doctors’ reports, or other evidence you are submitting. For example: Recent medical records from Dr. [Doctor’s Name], dated [Date]; Physical therapy reports; Updated list of medications.].
I am available for a new medical examination at your convenience. Please let me know what steps I need to take to schedule an appointment.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Sample Letter To VA Requesting a Rating Increase
Subject Line: Precision Matters
- Keep it concise. A subject line like “Request for Increased Disability Rating – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]” is perspicacious.
- Avoid ambiguity. Clarity is paramount to ensure your letter is routed expediently.
Salutation: A Formal Overture
- Address the VA appropriately. “Dear Department of Veterans Affairs Rating Board” is a sound, formal opening.
- Refrain from using overly familiar greetings. Maintain a professional tenor throughout.
Introduction: Articulating Your Intent
- State your purpose immediately. For example, “I am writing to formally request an increase in my current disability rating due to a demonstrable exacerbation of my service-connected conditions.”
- Reference your existing claim. Mention your VA file number and the specific disabilities for which you are seeking an augmented rating.
Body Paragraph 1: Detailing the Deterioration
- Succinctly describe how your condition has worsened. Be specific, illustrating concrete examples of how your daily life is affected.
- Quantify the impact whenever feasible. Instead of saying “My back pain is worse,” say “My back pain now requires me to take medication three times daily, up from once daily six months ago.”
Body Paragraph 2: Substantiating Evidence
- List all supporting documentation you are including. This might include new medical records, doctor’s reports, or lay statements from individuals who can corroborate your claims.
- Be precise. “Enclosed are updated medical records from Dr. Eleanor Vance dated October 26, 2023, pertaining to my diagnosed sciatica.”
Medical Evidence: A Cornerstone of Your Appeal
- Emphasize the nexus (connection) between your service and the exacerbated condition. Highlight any language in medical reports that supports this connection.
- If possible, obtain a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) from your physician. This standardized form can fortify your claim immeasurably.
Closing: A Courteous Conclusion
- Express gratitude for their time and consideration.
- Reiterate your request succinctly. “Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter. I respectfully request a reevaluation of my disability rating in light of the enclosed evidence.”
- Use a formal closing. “Sincerely” or “Respectfully” are appropriate.
- Include your contact information: full name, address, phone number, and email address.
Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting a VA Rating Increase
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the process of requesting an increase in your disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Understanding the key aspects of this process can help ensure your request is accurately submitted and efficiently reviewed.
1. When should I request a rating increase?
A rating increase should be requested when your service-connected disability has demonstrably worsened since your last rating decision. Provide updated medical evidence to support your claim.
2. What information should I include in the letter?
Your letter should include your full name, VA file number, current disability rating, the specific disability for which you are seeking an increase, and a detailed explanation of how your condition has worsened. Attach any supporting medical documentation.
3. Where should I send the request letter?
The letter should be sent to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Evidence Intake Center, P.O. Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444. Alternatively, you can submit your request online through the VA website.
4. What kind of medical evidence is helpful?
Recent medical records from your treating physician(s), diagnostic test results, and any relevant hospital records are essential. The evidence should clearly document the progression and severity of your condition.
5. What happens after I submit my request?
The VA will review your request and the submitted evidence. You may be scheduled for a Compensation and Pension (C&P) examination to further assess your condition. Following the examination, the VA will issue a decision regarding your request.
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