How are my conditions rated?
How the VA Determines Your Rating
The VA rates your conditions based on the information provided in your Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) and medical evidence. These ratings determine the level of compensation you may receive.
The VA uses Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations (38 CFR), which provides specific guidelines on how each condition is rated. This handbook outlines:
- Severity of Symptoms – The VA considers the impact of your condition on your daily life and ability to work
- Medical Evidence & DBQs – The questionnaires you complete help the VA determine which conditions you have and how they should be rated
- Percentage-Based Ratings – Each condition is assigned a disability percentage (from 0% to 100%), reflecting its severity
- Combined Disability Rating – If you have multiple conditions, the VA uses a complex formula to calculate your total disability rating
Why Does This Matter?
Your VA rating directly affects your monthly compensation and access to benefits such as healthcare, housing assistance, and vocational rehabilitation. The higher your rating, the greater the benefits you may receive
If you’re unsure about your rating or believe it should be higher, you can work with VetVantage to gather additional medical evidence and complete the necessary forms for a potential rating increase.
Related Articles
What if my condition has worsened?
Steps to Report a Worsening Condition Go to the Conditions Page – When prompted, you will see an option to indicate whether your condition has worsened Select “Yes” – This will allow you to proceed with updating your condition information Choose the ...Where can I get my condition information?
Steps to Find Your Condition Information on VA.gov Visit VA.gov – Go to the official VA website Sign In to Your Account – Use ID.me, DS Logon, or My HealtheVet credentials Navigate to Disability Benefits – Once logged in, find the section labeled ...What happens during a Personal Assessment Exam?
Answer: The doctor will review all the information you have provided and confirm if your service connected conditions qualify you for an increase in disability benefits. What to Expect in the Exam: 1. Telehealth or In-Person The type of exam depends ...What is a DBQ Exam?
Answer: The DBQ Exam is the final appointment in the VetVantage process, where all Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) are reviewed and finalized before filing a claim. What Happens During the DBQ Exam? 1. Finalizing Medical Evidence By this ...How Are These Numbers Calculated?
Answer: These numbers are calculated using the 38 CFR handbook, which serves as the official guideline the VA follows to determine disability ratings based on medical conditions and their severity. How the VA Calculates Ratings The 38 CFR handbook ...