What Is an Increase Claim
An increase claim is a request to raise your disability rating for a service-connected condition that has worsened since your last VA evaluation. You file this with VA Form 21-526EZ to ask for a higher rating and the retroactive or prospective pay increase that comes with it.
The VA uses a rating schedule that assigns percentages from 0% to 100% for each service-connected condition. If your condition has genuinely deteriorated, you can request a re-evaluation. The VA then schedules a C&P exam to assess your current functional limitations and determine if a higher rating is warranted.
When to File an Increase Claim
You can file an increase claim at any time after receiving an initial rating. There is no waiting period. Common reasons veterans file increases include worsening pain, reduced mobility, increased medication side effects, or new related symptoms documented by medical providers.
The VA cannot reduce your rating on an increase claim unless you filed it within one year of your initial rating decision. After that year passes, the VA can reduce your rating if evidence shows improvement. This one-year protection applies only to the first increase claim you file.
How the Increase Claim Process Works
- Submit Form 21-526EZ: File online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person at your local VA office. Include your condition name, when it worsened, and any new medical evidence.
- Develop your evidence: Gather recent medical records from VA or private providers showing your current condition. A nexus letter from your doctor explaining the worsening can strengthen your case significantly.
- Receive your C&P exam notice: The VA schedules an examination with a contract examiner or VA healthcare provider. This exam focuses on how your condition has changed since the last evaluation.
- Attend the exam: Be specific about your symptoms and functional limitations during the exam. Mention things you can no longer do that you could do before.
- Receive a decision: The VA issues a rating decision within 125 days on average. If approved, your new rating takes effect on the effective date specified in the decision.
Effective Dates and Retroactive Pay
The effective date of your increase depends on when you filed. If you file an increase claim, the effective date is typically the date VA received your application. However, if the VA agrees your condition worsened earlier, they may grant an earlier effective date with retroactive back pay. You can request an earlier effective date if you can show the worsening occurred before you filed.
Getting Help with Your Increase Claim
A VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or claims agent can review your medical records, help you gather supporting evidence, and represent you throughout the process at no cost. VSOs work for recognized veteran organizations and can submit your claim, attend exams with you, and appeal decisions if needed.
Common Questions
- Will filing an increase claim affect my current rating? Not automatically. The one-year protection rule prevents reduction after an initial rating, but this applies only to your first increase claim. After one year, the VA can reduce your rating if evidence supports it. However, most veterans do not experience reductions when filing for genuine worsening.
- How long does the C&P exam process take? After you file, it typically takes 30 to 60 days to receive your exam appointment notice. The exam itself takes 30 minutes to two hours depending on your condition. The rating decision usually arrives within 125 days of filing.
- What medical evidence do I need? VA treatment records are ideal since they are already in your file. Private medical records also work. A letter from your doctor explaining how your condition has worsened and limiting your activities is particularly valuable for increase claims.