As a veteran, navigating the VA disability claim process can be overwhelming and confusing. With a multitude of conditions that may be eligible for benefits, it’s important to understand which claims are more likely to be approved. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 8 easiest VA disability claims for 2023, to help simplify the process and increase your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.

But before we dive into the list, let’s first consider a staggering statistic – the VA’s own data shows that nearly 70% of all disability claims are initially denied. This can be a major blow to veterans who are already dealing with physical or mental health issues.

So, what if we told you that there are certain claims that are more likely to be approved and that understanding these claims can give you an edge in the VA disability claim process?

Are you ready to learn about the top 10 easiest VA disability claims for 2023 and increase your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve? Let’s get started.

Three Critical Requirements for VA Disability Approval

It is crucial to have the following three things in order for you to win your VA disability claims.

• a Medical Diagnosis,
• a connection to active duty military service (Nexus), and
• medical evidence of recurring symptoms

You must have these three before submitting a disability claim. So remember, this process takes time. The more prepared you are going into it, with the right evidence to support your claim, will increase your chances of a smoother process.

Top VA Disability Claims

• Tinnitus
• Limitation of Flexion of the Knee
• Hearing Loss
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Lumbosacral or cervical stain (back and neck strains)
• Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve
• Scars, General
• Limitation of Motion of the Ankle
• Limitation of Motion of the Arm
• Migraines

1. VA Disability Claims for Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in the ear without an external source. It is a common condition, affecting over 50 million Americans, including veterans.

Most Veterans were exposed to loud noises. Certain jobs in the military were subjected to loud noise exposure more than others and as a result, have left many veterans with Tinnitus. If fact, according to the 2018-2019 Veterans Benefits Administration’s Report to Congress, Tinnitus takes the cake for the top awarded VA disability claim with 157,152 newly awarded claims.

VA Disability Percentages for Tinnitus

The VA disability rating for tinnitus ranges from 0 to 10%. The rating will depend on the veteran’s severity of symptoms.

• 0% – Tinnitus occurred after loud noise exposure, but went away afterward
• 10% – Condition exists

Proving Service Connection for Tinnitus

Proving tinnitus for VA disability claims can be challenging as it is an invisible condition. Tinnitus is subjective and there is no definitive test for it. If a veteran says they have tinnitus there is no way to disprove it with medical evidence.

For a Veterans VA Tinnitus claim to get approved they’ll need a diagnosis and other necessary medical evidence required by the Veterans Administration. In addition to medical evidence, veterans can also provide statements from family members and friends who have observed the effects of tinnitus on the veteran’s daily life. The veteran should also provide a detailed explanation of how tinnitus affects their daily activities and work.

Possible Secondary Conditions Associated with Tinnitus

The following conditions are common secondary to tinnitus:

• Anxiety and Depression
• Migraines

If you’d like to know more about these secondary conditions and how a 10% Tinnitus rating can potentially turn into a 70-90% overall disability percentage, check out our video “Turn Your 10% Tinnitus Rating Into A 90% VA Disability Rating!“

By understanding the definition, prevalence, possible disability rating, and evidence required for a tinnitus claim, veterans can increase their chances of receiving the benefits they deserve. Don’t let the invisible nature of tinnitus hold you back – gather the necessary evidence and make your case for VA disability benefits.

2. Limitation or Flexion of the Knee

Knee limitation, also known as limitation of flexion of the knee, is the #2 most common condition that affects veterans who have experienced an injury or developed a medical condition in the knee joint. Limitation of flexion of the knee specifically refers to a range of motion of the knee as the veteran moves it or curls it inward towards the body.

Symptoms of knee limitation include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty bending the knee. Causes of knee limitation include knee injuries, arthritis, and degenerative joint diseases.

Possible Disability Ratings for Limitation of Flexion, Knee

The rating for limitation of flexion of the knee ranges from 0 to 30%. Flexion of the leg and the rating given is based on a couple of factors. Specifically, the Veteran can straighten their leg but they CANNOT bend it fully. Here are the percentages given at specific degrees.

• 0% – 60°
• 10% – 45°
• 20% – 30°
• 30% – 15°

Evidence Required for VA Disability Claims for Knee Limitation

To receive VA disability benefits for knee limitation, a veteran must provide evidence of their condition. This can include medical records, x-rays, and doctor’s notes. The VA may also require a physical examination to assess the extent of the veteran’s knee limitation.

How to Prove Knee Limitation for VA Disability Benefits

To prove knee limitation for VA disability benefits, a veteran must provide clear and convincing evidence of their condition. This can include medical records, x-rays, and doctor’s notes. It is important for the veteran to provide detailed information about their symptoms and the impact their condition has on their daily life.

Secondary Conditions Associated with Limitation of Flexion, Knee

limitation can lead to a number of secondary conditions, including difficulty performing activities of daily living, increased pain and discomfort, and reduced mobility. In some cases, knee limitation can also lead to depression and anxiety.

Somatic Symptom Disorder is another common disability Veterans develop as a secondary condition. This falls under the mental health umbrella defined by the Veterans Administration and can be rated as high as 100% depending on the level of severity. To receive VA disability benefits for secondary conditions related to knee limitation, a veteran must provide evidence of their condition and its connection to their knee limitation.

3. Hearing Loss VA Disability Claims

Hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors including exposure to loud noises, aging, disease, and injury. Symptoms of hearing loss include difficulty hearing in noisy environments, trouble understanding speech, and the need to turn up the volume on electronic devices.

When assigning a rating for hearing loss, the VA will consider both ears. This means that a veteran cannot get individual ratings for both ears. If an ear is not service-connected then the VA deems this 100% perfect working order.

How to Prove Hearing Loss for VA Disability Benefits

In order for a Veteran to receive a proper rating they’ll need to undergo an examination at the VA which consists of two tests. A speed discrimination test and Puretone audiometry test will be used to determine the Veteran’s hearing loss.

Depending on the Veteran’s MOS and/or combat experiences, their claims for hearing loss may be given additional weight for consideration of service connection. In order to prove a hearing loss for VA disability benefits, veterans must provide evidence such as audiograms, medical records, and statements from healthcare providers. It is important to have up-to-date and comprehensive audiograms, as they provide a measurable baseline for hearing loss.

Possible Disability Rating for Hearing Loss

The VA disability rating for hearing loss ranges from 0 to 100%, with 100% being the most severe. The rating is determined based on the severity and impact of hearing loss on the veteran’s daily life. Most Veterans will receive a 10% rating.

Secondary Conditions associated with Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can lead to secondary conditions such as communication difficulties, social isolation, depression, and anxiety. These secondary conditions should be documented and considered when evaluating a hearing loss claim.

By understanding the causes and symptoms of hearing loss, as well as the evidence required to prove it, veterans can increase their chances of receiving the VA disability benefits they deserve. Don’t let hearing loss hold you back – gather the necessary evidence and make your case for VA disability benefits.

4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) VA Disability Claims

Symptoms and Causes of PTSD: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event such as combat, natural disasters, or sexual assault. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, and emotional numbness.

PTSD Disability Ratings Percentages

The VA disability rating for PTSD ranges from 0 to 100%, with 100% being the most severe. The exact rating is determined based on the severity and impact of PTSD symptoms on the veteran’s daily life.

When it comes to PTSD claims, it is important for Veterans to be open and honest about their symptoms. Vulnerability is difficult, but a Veteran must share their symptoms to the best of their ability to get the rating they deserve. Here is a close look at each percentage and what the VA is specifically looking for.

*Note, this is information directly from the Veterans Administration.

10%

“Occupational and social impairment due to mild or transient symptoms which decrease work efficiency and ability to perform occupational tasks only during periods of significant stress, or symptoms controlled by continuous medication.”

30%

“Occupational and social impairment with occasional decrease in work efficiency and intermittent periods of inability to perform occupational tasks (although generally functioning satisfactorily, with routine behavior, self-care, and conversation normal), due to such symptoms as depressed mood, anxiety, suspiciousness, panic attacks (weekly or less often), chronic sleep impairment, mild memory loss (such as forgetting names, directions, recent events).”

50%

“Occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity due to such symptoms as: flattened affect; circumstantial, circumlocutory, or stereotyped speech; panic attacks more than once a week; difficulty in understanding complex commands; impairment of short- and long-term memory (e.g., retention of only highly learned material, forgetting to complete tasks); impaired judgment; impaired abstract thinking; disturbances of motivation and mood; difficulty in establishing and maintaining effective work and social relationships.”

SPECIAL RATING NOTE:

• Veterans who were separated from service due to PTSD will receive at minimum a rating of 50%. Which will then be Reevaluated within 6 months. At this point, it may be lowered if appropriate.

70%

“Occupational and social impairment, with deficiencies in most areas, such as work, school, family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood, due to such symptoms as suicidal idealization; obsessional rituals which interfere with routine activities; speech intermittently illogical, obscure, or irrelevant; near-continuous panic or depression affecting the ability to function independently, appropriately and effectively; impaired impulse control (such as unprovoked irritability with periods of violence); spatial disorientation; neglect of personal appearance and hygiene; difficulty in adapting to stressful circumstances (including work or a work-like setting); inability to establish and maintain effective relationships.”

100%

“Total occupational and social impairment, due to such symptoms as gross impairment in thought processes or communication; persistent delusions or hallucinations; grossly inappropriate behavior; persistent danger of hurting self or others; intermittent inability to perform activities of daily living (including maintenance of minimal personal hygiene); disorientation to time or place; memory loss for names of close relatives, own occupation, or own name.”

Evidence Required for VA Disability Claims for PTSD

To prove PTSD for VA disability benefits, veterans should provide medical evidence such as psychiatric evaluations, therapy records, and statements from healthcare providers. It is also helpful to provide personal statements describing the traumatic event and the resulting symptoms.

Keep in mind that PTSD requires an in-service stressor! PTSD does not have to be caused by combat exposure. Other causes of PTSD can be from any stressor in which the Veterans feared for their life including, but not limited to:

• Aircraft crashes;
• Assault;
• Battery;
• Environmental disasters (earthquakes, fires, floods, etc);
• Fear of hostile enemy forces;
• Harassment;
• Military Sexual Trauma (MST);
  • Sexual assault;
  • Sexual harassment;
  • Rape;
• Mugging;
• Robbery;
• Serving as a Drone Aircraft Crew Member;
• Serving in Mortuary Affairs;
• Stalking;
• Training accidents; or
• Vehicular crashes.

How to Prove PTSD for VA Disability Benefits

In addition to providing medical evidence, veterans can also provide statements from family members and friends who have observed the effects of PTSD on their daily life. It is important to be detailed and specific in describing the symptoms and how they affect daily activities and work.

The VA will look to prove a Veterans in-service stressor by any means necessary. This can include, but is not limited to the following:

• After action reports (AARs);
• Buddy Letters VA Form 21-10210
• Combat awards, badges, and decorations on the Veteran’s DD-214;
• Command chronologies and war diaries;
• Contemporaneous letters and diaries;
• Daily staff journals;
• Former prisoner of war;
• Personal Statements VA Form 21-4138
• Police or insurance reports;
• Private medical records;
• Monthly summaries & Morning reports;
• Muster rolls;
• Newspaper accounts of the traumatic event;
• Operational reports-lessons learned (ORLLs);
• Radio logs, deck logs, and ship histories;
• Service as drone aircraft crew member;
• Service treatment records (STRs) or service personnel records;
• Supporting Statements for Service Connection for PTSD VA Form 21-0781;
• Supporting Statements for Service Connection for PTSD that is a result of personal trauma (such as military sexual assault) VA Form 21-0781a;
• Unit and organizational histories.

If you are a Veteran trying to get a PTSD claim approved, utilize any of the above information as proof.

Secondary Conditions Associated with PTSD

PTSD can lead to secondary conditions such as erectile dysfunction, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), sleep apnea, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ).

By understanding the symptoms and causes of PTSD and the evidence required to prove it for VA disability benefits, veterans can increase their chances of receiving the compensation they deserve. Don’t let PTSD hold you back – gather the necessary evidence and make your case for VA disability benefits.

5. VA Disability Claims for Lumbosacral or cervical strains

Another very common disability amongst Veterans, Lumbosacral or cervical strain is a condition characterized by pain and discomfort in the lower back (lumbosacral) or neck (cervical) area. This can be caused by overuse, injury, or arthritis.

Keep in mind that the diagnosis for your specific back condition isn’t as important as how it is rated. The majority of spine conditions will come down to the range of motion (ROM). This ROM will be tested on the veteran’s neck (cervical spine) and back (thoracolumbar spine).

Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain Disability Rating Percentages

The VA disability rating for lumbosacral or cervical strain ranges from 0 to 100%, with 100% being the most severe. The exact rating is determined based on the extent of the strain and its impact on the veteran’s daily life. Let’s take a further look at a breakdown of each percentage.

Ratings Based Off Limitations of Range of Motion (ROM)

It is important to note that there are other types of ratings given for back and neck conditions, but ROM ratings are one of the most common. In fact, the most common rating for this type of disability is 10% rating. A 10% rating is given for any musculoskeletal condition when there is pain prevalent with any movement of that specific area.

Evidence Required for VA Disability Claims for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain

To prove lumbosacral or cervical strain for VA disability benefits, veterans should provide medical evidence such as doctor’s reports, medical records, and test results. It is also helpful to provide a personal statement describing the pain and discomfort and how it affects daily activities and work.

Proving Service Connection for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain for VA Disability Benefits

In addition to providing medical evidence, veterans can also provide statements from family members and friends who have observed the effects of lumbosacral or cervical strain on their daily life. It is important to be detailed and specific in describing the symptoms and how they affect daily activities and work.

Secondary Conditions Associated with Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain

Lumbosacral or cervical strain can lead to secondary conditions such as chronic pain, depression, and difficulty sleeping. These secondary conditions should be documented and considered when evaluating a lumbosacral or cervical strain claim.

By understanding the symptoms and causes of lumbosacral or cervical strain and the evidence required to prove it for VA disability benefits, veterans can increase their chances of receiving the compensation they deserve. Don’t let back or neck pain controls your life – gather the necessary evidence and make your case for VA disability benefits.

6. Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve VA Disability Claims

Paralysis of the sciatic nerve can be caused by a number of factors, including spinal injuries, nerve entrapment, or degenerative conditions. Symptoms of sciatic nerve paralysis can include weakness, numbness, and tingling in the legs, as well as difficulty moving or standing.

The sciatic nerve starts in the lower back and runs down the back of both legs. Sciatic nerve conditions are rated in three different categories:

1. Paralysis
2. Neuritis
3. Neuralgia

Paralysis

Inability to control or sense.

• Incomplete (Mild) – Feelings of tingling or mild pain. Some mild ROM impacts.
• Incomplete (Moderate) – Feelings of tingling, numbness, moderate pain, or other symptoms that do interfere with the ability to function.
• Incomplete (Severe) – The ability to function is seriously limited. Symptoms might include things like poor blood circulation and loss of muscle mass.
• Complete – No sensation or control, basically it is gone.

Neuritis

Pain or numbness without nerve degeneration or objective signs of nerve dysfunction (the doctor seeing/finding it).

• Mild – Loss of sensation, loss of muscle mass, or loss of reflexes. The total impact does not significantly impact the ability to function.
• Moderate – Loss of sensation, loss of muscle mass, or loss of reflexes. The total impact significantly impacts the ability to function.
• Severe – Loss of sensation, loss of muscle mass, and loss of reflexes. The total impact seriously impacts the ability to function.

Neuralgia

Stabbing, burning, and often severe pain due to an irritated or damaged nerve. 

• Mild – Tingling or mild pain. The total impact does not really affect overall function.
• Moderate – Tingling, numbness, or moderate to severe pain. That total impact significantly impacts the ability to function.

Possible Disability Ratings for Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve

This condition is rated into three categories. Paralysis, Neuritis, and Neuralgia. Each has different rating criteria. Let’s take a closer look at each.

Paralysis

Neuritis

Neuralgia (Sciatica)

Factors such as the extent of the paralysis, difficulty with activities of daily living, and limitations in work or other important areas of life can all play a role in determining the disability rating.

Evidence Required for VA Disability Claims for Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve

In order to receive VA disability benefits for paralysis of the sciatic nerve, veterans must provide clear and convincing evidence of their condition. This may include medical records, imaging studies, and statements from treating physicians or other healthcare professionals.

How to Prove Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve for VA Disability Benefits

To prove paralysis of the sciatic nerve for VA disability benefits, veterans should provide thorough documentation of their symptoms and the impact of their condition on their daily life. This may include medical records, imaging studies, and statements from treating physicians or other healthcare professionals.

Secondary Conditions Associated with Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve

Paralysis of the sciatic nerve can lead to a number of secondary conditions, including chronic pain, difficulty with mobility, and decreased quality of life. Other conditions, such as nerve damage or muscle weakness, may also develop as a result of sciatic nerve paralysis.

7. Scars, General VA Disability Ratings

Scars are one of the most commonly awarded VA Disability claims with more than a million Veterans currently receiving compensation for them.

Types of Scars Eligible for VA Disability Claims

VA disability claims for scars can be made for scars on the face, head, neck, or other areas of the body. Scars can result from a variety of causes such as injuries, surgeries, burns, gunshot wounds, and any other injuries.

How Scars are Rated by the VA

Scars are rated either on visible or palpable disfigurement or upon the characteristics or disfigurement. In terms of the disfigurement, the VA considers the following locations

• Cheeks
• Chin
• Ears
• Eyes and Eyelids
• Forehead
• Mouth and Lips
• Nose

The Characteristics of Disfigurement

• The scar is 5 or more inches (13 or more cm.) in length.
• Scar at least 1/4 inch (0.6 cm.) wide at the widest part.
• The scar is attached to the underlying tissue (makes the skin hard to move).
• Scar surface sinks or raises when pushed.
• Skin is abnormally white or dark in an area exceeding six square inches (39 sq. cm.).
• Skin texture is abnormal (irregular, shrunken, shiny, scaly, etc.) in an area exceeding six square inches (39 sq. cm.).
• Underlying soft tissue missing in an area exceeding six square inches (39 sq. cm.).
• Skin is hard and inflexible in an area exceeding six square inches (39 sq. cm.).

Possible Disability Rating for Scars

The VA disability rating for scars ranges from 0 to 80% The rating is determined based on the size, shape, and location of the scar, as well as its impact on the veteran’s daily life. Here is a breakdown of each percentage.

• 10% – 1 characteristic of disfigurement.
• 30% – 1 location is disfigured, OR there are 2-3 characteristics of disfigurement.
• 50% – 2 locations are disfigured, OR there are 4-5 characteristics of disfigurement.
• 80% – 3 or more locations are disfigured, OR there are at least 6 characteristics of disfigurement.

Evidence Required for VA Disability Claims for Scars

To prove scars for VA disability benefits, veterans should provide medical evidence such as photographs, medical records, and statements from healthcare providers. The evidence should clearly show the size, shape, and location of the scars.

How to Prove Scars for VA Disability Benefits

In addition to providing medical evidence, veterans should also provide statements from family members and friends who have observed the effects of scars on their daily life. It is also helpful to provide a detailed explanation of how scars affect the veteran’s daily activities and work.

Secondary Conditions Associated with Scars

Scars can lead to secondary conditions such as pain, discomfort, and loss of range of motion. These secondary conditions should be documented and considered when evaluating a scar claim.

By understanding the types of scars eligible for VA disability claims and the evidence required to prove them, veterans can increase their chances of receiving the VA disability benefits they deserve. Don’t let scars hold you back – gather the necessary evidence and make your case for VA disability benefits.

8. Limitation of Motion of the Ankle VA Disability Claims

Ankle limitation is a condition in which a person experiences difficulty moving the ankle joint, leading to discomfort and decreased mobility. Causes of ankle limitation can range from injuries such as sprains or fractures to underlying medical conditions such as arthritis or nerve damage. Symptoms of ankle limitation include pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion in the ankle joint.

VA Disability Ratings for Ankle Limitation

This condition is rated at either 10% or 20% depending on a couple of different factors. It will come down to the limitation of motion. A 10% rating is given for moderate limitation and a 20% is given for marked limitation.

If there is pain with motion a 10% rating is given. It is important to keep in mind that the Veteran will not receive an additional rating for pain with motion. The VA will only award a SINGLE rating under a range of motion! No matter how many ranges of motion are impacted! The Veteran will get a single rating for the ROM or Miscellaneous rating. Whichever rating is higher!

Evidence Required for VA Disability Claims for Ankle Limitation

To receive VA disability benefits for ankle limitation, a veteran must provide evidence of the condition and its impact on their daily life. This can include medical records, treatment history, and testimonials from healthcare providers and family members. Additionally, a veteran may also need to undergo a VA examination to determine the severity of the ankle limitation.

How to Prove Ankle Limitation for VA Disability Benefits

To prove ankle limitation for VA disability benefits, a veteran should gather as much evidence as possible to support their claim. This can include medical records, X-rays, and MRI results, as well as a detailed description of their symptoms and how the condition affects their daily life. Veterans should also be prepared to provide information about any treatments they have received and any secondary conditions that may be related to their ankle limitation.

Secondary Conditions Associated with Ankle Limitation

In some cases, ankle limitation can lead to secondary conditions such as chronic pain, difficulty walking and decreased mobility. These secondary conditions can further impact a veteran’s daily life and should also be taken into consideration when filing a VA disability claim for ankle limitation.

9. VA Disability Claims for Shoulder and Arm Conditions

Arm limitation can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, disease, or congenital conditions. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, numbness, or limited range of motion.

Just like leg conditions, the VA will give you “more points” for your dominant arm. If you have a rating for both of your arms, you’ll receive the bilateral factor which will result in more pay for the Veteran.

Possible Disability Ratings for Limitation of Arm VA Disability Claims

Arm conditions are rated at 0% – 40%. Many factors will determine the rating a Veteran will receive, but it always comes down to severity. The more severe the condition the higher the rating. With a limitation of movement, it will come down to a range of motion (ROM).

Ratings Based Off Limitations of Range of Motion (ROM)

When Veterans cannot raise their arm to their side (abduction) or directly in front of them (flexion). Veterans will NOT receive separate ratings if both their abduction and flexion range of motions are affected.

Just like back conditions, if you have pain in motion a 10% rating is given, but cannot pyramid with other ratings.

Evidence Required for VA Disability Claims for Arm Limitation

To prove arm limitation for VA disability benefits, you will need to provide evidence of your condition, including medical records, doctor’s reports, and any other relevant documentation.

How to Prove Arm Limitation for VA Disability Benefits

To prove arm limitation, you will need to provide evidence that your arm limitation is related to your military service. This may include showing that your arm limitation was caused by an injury sustained during service, or that it is related to a disease or condition that was aggravated by your military service.

Secondary Conditions Associated with Arm Limitation

Secondary conditions can develop as a result of arms limitation. With all musculoskeletal conditions, somatic symptom disorder is a common secondary disability. These conditions can cause mental health issues amongst Veterans for many different reasons. As a result, Veterans can file secondary claims for somatic symptom disorder but will have to provide a clear nexus linking the two conditions.

10. VA Disability Claims for Migraines

Migraines are a type of headache characterized by severe pain and often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, and vision changes. They are often triggered by stress, lack of sleep, and changes in the environment.

When it comes to Migraines, the keyword is “prostrating.” This means that the headache is so bad that it requires you to lie down for an extended period of time and may even end your day altogether. You may need to take medication, take the day off and isolate, or seek medical attention. If a medication helps, it might have the negative effect of making you too drowsy to do any work or other activities.

Possible Disability Rating for Migraines

The VA disability rating for migraines ranges from 0 to 50%, with 50% being the most severe. The exact rating is determined based on the frequency and severity of migraines and the impact they have on the veteran’s daily life. Let’s take a look at each rating specifically.

• 0% – Once in 3 months or less.
• 10% – Once in 2 months.
• 30% – Once a month.
• 50% – Very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability.

Evidence Required for VA Disability Claims for Migraines

To prove migraines for VA disability benefits, veterans should provide medical evidence such as doctor’s reports, medical records, and test results. It is also helpful to provide a personal statement describing the frequency, intensity, and impact of migraines on daily activities and work.

It is important that Veterans properly document the frequency and severity of their headaches. A lot of Veterans have found the use of various headache-tracking/diary apps very helpful in this regard.

How to Prove Migraines for VA Disability Benefits

In addition to providing medical evidence, veterans can also provide statements from family members and friends who have observed the effects of migraines on their daily life. It is important to be detailed and specific in describing the symptoms and how they affect daily activities and work.

**If the severity is not prostrating then you will NOT receive a compensational rating!

Secondary Conditions Associated with Migraines

Migraines can lead to secondary conditions such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. These secondary conditions should be documented and considered when evaluating a migraine claim.

By understanding the symptoms and causes of migraines and the evidence required to prove them for VA disability benefits, veterans can increase their chances of receiving the compensation they deserve. Don’t let migraines control your life – gather the necessary evidence and make your case for VA disability benefits.

Secondary Service Connection

A secondary service connection is when a service-connected condition leads to another disability. When a condition is caused or made worse by a service-connected disability rated at 0% or higher the Veteran can receive compensation for that as well with the right evidence and documentation.

Proving Secondary Service Connection

To be granted service connection for a secondary condition, veterans will need to demonstrate two things to VA:

• A current diagnosis of the secondary injury, illness, or disability; and
• Medical evidence shows a link between your service-connected condition and secondary condition.

NEXUS Statement

With secondary conditions, a “nexus” is almost always required. The nexus is essentially the link between a service-connected condition and the secondary condition. Your doctor will need to write a nexus on your behalf and at the very least it should say something like, “at least as likely as not.” Meaning that on a greater than 50% chance, the Veteran secondary condition was caused or made worse by their primary service-connected disability.

Conclusion

The VA Disability Claims process can be complex and overwhelming, but with the right information, it is possible to get approved for benefits. The above Top 10 VA Disability Claims for 2023 are some of the easiest to get approved for and could provide much-needed financial and medical support for eligible veterans.

With a possible disability rating of 0 to 100%, it is important to gather all the necessary evidence to support your claim. From the symptoms and causes of the condition to the evidence required and secondary conditions associated, understanding the process can help increase the chances of success.

We hope this article has been helpful in navigating the VA Disability Claims process. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more helpful tips and information. And don’t forget to check out our YouTube video for a more in-depth look at these Top 10 VA Disability Claims for 2023.

Related Articles:

3 Ways to Submit a VA Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966)
10 Reasons Veterans Don’t File for VA Disability Benefits
Can I work with 100% VA Disability? | VA Disability Help
The Ultimate Guide to Understanding VA Disability Claims
VA Claim Process: Here Are The 8 Steps Your Claim Goes Through After Filing

Sources:
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