Hints in getting your VA Disability increased.

By David Turner

You served, and now you are paying for it with a disability.   How can you get it increased?

After being fighting for an increase, I am still fighting.  I am 100% Disabled by the Social Security with only one of my multi Service Connected Disabilities.  But with the VA I am only at 60% but with 20% Knees (10% each),  10% Fluid on the Brain,   and 30% General Anxiety Disorder.  I am also rated but at 0% with Kidney Stones, and Gout.  

I have learned a lot and like to share what I have learned.    So with that said these are Not written down Facts, just things I have been told by the guys who has won their 100% Disability.

First of all if you can claim it, Claim it.  If a medical problem started while you are in service, Claim it.  You are entitled to it.  Reference to my Kidney Stones and Gout condition.    If you are planning to get out or retire, Start Now while your still in.   Get help through the VA Administration, DAV, AMVET, VFW, or American Legion.

First rule is Patience.  It’s going to be a long road.  Always go to your VA Medical Appointments.   

Second Rule. NEVER EVER Give up…

When you go and asked How are you?  Answer I am doing bad or I hurt really bad.  Pending on the condition.  Never ever say I am doing OK..   I always say I am hurting from the neck down. And I am not lying for I do.  If you are going for a Mental disorder, like my Anxiety Disorder or PTSD, do not go looking as you just got out of the shower and on your way to Church or your wedding.     I have had others tell me make sure I have food stains on my shirt for example stop and eat a Hotdog and have some ketchup or mustard on the shirt then rub it in.  

If you’re going cause of a bone problem such as Arthritis, do not walk in, use a Wheel Chair, Crouches or a Cane.   I always carry my Cane, I even used Crouches.    On the Pain scale always use a High number.  1 -10 use a number higher than 6.  They look at anything less as why are you here?  I do have a High Tolerance for pain so I have to think when I answer.  As I said I am always hurting and the pain pills do not work for me anymore.

Keep up with your medications.  If your not taking meds your not sick by the Government opinion. 

If you have one Disability rating of 40% or higher and you’re at 60% or you’re at 70% you can file for unemployable and receive 100% pay.

If your condition requires you to go into the Hospital, Go to the VA Hospital.  Stay as long as you can.  Like 21 days or more.  You will get at least on month at the 100% if you stay in there that long, plus with chance are it will remain.  

It will not come over night, or in a week, or 2, nor will it happen as fast as you like.  Most cases goes over 5 years in getting.   Just remember my first 2 rules, Patience,   They want you to give up.

This is based on what I have been told to do by others who has done this and achieved their Goal.   

For more information read 38 CFR Book C-Schedule for Rating Disabilities at