When to file for an increase
You can request an increased rating whenever a service-connected condition has worsened. There is no waiting period and no limit on how many times you can file. Typical reasons to file: your symptoms have measurably worsened, you need more medication or treatment than before, the condition limits activities it did not limit before, you have new diagnostic findings (a new MRI, X-ray, or test results), you were hospitalized for the condition, or a mental health condition has worsened with more frequent episodes or increased isolation.
How to file
- Submit an Intent to File to lock your effective date.
- Get current medical documentation showing the worsened condition.
- File a claim for increase on VA.gov. Select "claim for increase", not "new claim".
- Attend the C&P exam, which matters most for increases.
C&P exam for increases
The examiner compares your current condition to your last rating.
- Describe how the condition has changed since your last evaluation.
- Bring documentation of the worsening (pharmacy records, ER visits, new imaging).
- Report your worst days. The rating should reflect the full picture, including flare-ups.
- Know the rating criteria for the next higher level and be prepared to describe symptoms that match.
What the VA looks at
The VA uses specific rating criteria from 38 CFR Part 4 for each condition. Your increase depends on whether your symptoms now meet the criteria for a higher rating level. The conditions pages show the rating criteria for the most-claimed conditions.
Temporary 100% ratings
You may qualify for a temporary 100% rating if:
- You were hospitalized for 21+ days for a service-connected condition.
- You had surgery requiring convalescence for a service-connected condition.
- You have an unstable condition with severe residuals.
File VA Form 21-526EZ and include hospital or surgical records.
Before you file
- An increase claim can result in a decrease if the examiner finds improvement. This is rare but possible for conditions rated for less than 5 years.
- Conditions rated for 20+ years are considered "protected" and generally cannot be reduced.
- You can file for an increase while other claims are pending.
- Consider filing for secondary conditions at the same time if new symptoms have developed.