Filing for VA disability can be a daunting process, but some conditions are more commonly approved than others.
Understanding the easiest VA disability claims to file and get approved can increase your chances of securing compensation. This guide will highlight the most common and easiest things to claim for VA disability, including secondary conditions and high-value claims.
Top Easiest Things to Claim for VA Disability
The easiest VA disability claims are those that are well-documented, commonly seen among veterans, and supported by clear medical evidence. Here are some of the easiest conditions to claim:
- Tinnitus
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is one of the most common claims filed by veterans. The VA regularly approves claims for tinnitus, and it generally receives a 10% disability rating. Tinnitus is a high-frequency issue for veterans due to exposure to loud noises during service. - Hearing Loss
Like tinnitus, hearing loss is a common condition among veterans, particularly those who served in combat or were exposed to high levels of noise. Depending on the severity of hearing loss, veterans can receive varying percentages of disability compensation. - Knee and Joint Pain
Joint pain is another frequent claim. Veterans suffering from conditions like knee pain, arthritis, or limited range of motion due to injuries sustained during their service often file claims for joint pain. These claims are usually supported by medical records showing chronic pain and reduced functionality. - Back Pain
Back problems, such as lumbosacral strain or spinal issues, are also among the easiest conditions to claim. If your back pain is service-connected, and you can show that it limits your mobility or impacts your daily activities, you may qualify for compensation. Think about lower backpain which is highly common (Lumbar Pain) - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a highly recognized condition among veterans, particularly those who served in combat zones. Claims for PTSD require a service connection and medical diagnosis, but once established, veterans often receive significant compensation. - Migraines
Veterans who suffer from migraines can file disability claims if they can show that their condition is service-connected. Migraines are rated based on their frequency and severity, with veterans potentially receiving up to a 50% rating for severe cases. - Scars
Visible scars from injuries or surgeries sustained during military service can be claimed. The VA evaluates scars based on their size, visibility, and impact on daily life. Scars that are painful or restrict movement may be eligible for a compensable rating.
For a more comprehensive list of common claims, check out this guide: Easiest VA Disability Claims to Get Approved.
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Top-10 Most Common VA Disability Claims
The VA recently provided an update to congress on VA Claims. According to the VA, the Annual Benefits Report (ABR) summarizes the benefit programs delivered by VBA, identifies the current level of program participation, and profiles the beneficiaries. The report is intended to accomplish the following: A) provide insights into the nature of the benefit programs., B) present a clear and data-driven picture of how Veterans and their dependents use these benefits.
- Tinnitus
- Hearing Loss
- Limitation of Flexion, Knee
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain (Back Pain)
- Scars, General
- Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve
- Limitation of Range of Motion of the Ankle
- Migraines (Headaches)
- Limitation of Motion of the Arm
if you think about this, many of these would be received via normal operations by soldiers and airmen — for example Tinnitus would be received if you are close to loud weapons, guns, firing range, airplanes, tarmac and so forth. The largest rating you can receive for Tinnitus is 10% though there are many secondary disabilities to tinnitus. Hearing loss is closely related to this. Many veterans have filed a VA claim for chronic pain as well.
The below graph indicates the general areas of newly approved disabilities by year. You can see that Cardiovascular is the highest. This was a screenshot from the VA presentation to congress linked above.
Common Secondary Conditions for VA Disability Claims
Secondary conditions are those that arise as a result of an already service-connected condition. These conditions can also be eligible for compensation. Common secondary claims include:
- Sleep Apnea Secondary to PTSD: Veterans with PTSD may develop sleep apnea as a result of their condition. If you have a service connection for PTSD, you can file a secondary claim for sleep apnea.
- Depression Secondary to Chronic Pain: Veterans dealing with chronic pain conditions, such as back pain or joint pain, often experience depression as a result of their pain and limited mobility. Depression that stems from chronic pain may be eligible for a secondary claim.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Secondary to PTSD: Veterans with PTSD may also develop IBS or other digestive disorders. If your IBS is linked to your PTSD, you can file a secondary claim for IBS.
For more information on secondary conditions, visit: VA Disability List of Presumed Conditions re the Pact Act.
Top 10 High-Value VA Disability Claims
While some claims are easier to file, others have a higher value due to the severity of the condition and its impact on daily life. Here are the top high-value VA disability claims:
- Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU): Veterans who are unable to maintain employment due to service-connected conditions may qualify for TDIU, which pays at the 100% disability rate even if the veteran’s combined rating is lower.
- Severe PTSD: Veterans with severe PTSD that leads to total occupational and social impairment can receive a 100% rating.
- Amputation or Loss of Limb: Veterans who have lost a limb due to injury or illness during service can qualify for high compensation rates based on the severity of their disability.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Veterans diagnosed with MS during or shortly after their service may be eligible for high-value compensation, depending on the progression of the disease.
- Severe Migraines: Veterans suffering from severe, prostrating migraines that occur frequently and impact their ability to work can receive higher ratings.
- Ankylosis of Joints: Veterans with ankylosis, or abnormal stiffness of a joint due to fusion of the bones, may receive high ratings if the condition severely impacts movement and functionality.
- Parkinson’s Disease: Veterans diagnosed with Parkinson’s may qualify for significant disability ratings due to the progressive nature of the disease and its impact on daily life.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Veterans with spinal cord injuries that result in significant mobility impairment or require the use of assistive devices may receive a 100% rating.
- Loss of Sight: Veterans who lose vision as a result of service-connected injuries or conditions can qualify for high-value compensation.
- Loss of Hearing: Veterans with severe hearing loss, particularly if it leads to total hearing impairment, may qualify for higher disability ratings.
Easiest VA Claims to Get Approved
While each veteran’s experience is unique, the VA tends to approve some conditions more readily than others. Claims that are commonly associated with military service, such as hearing loss, tinnitus, joint pain, and back pain, are more likely to be approved if the necessary medical evidence is provided. Additionally, conditions that are widely recognized as service-connected, like PTSD or combat-related injuries, are easier to substantiate with supporting medical records.
