How to increase a VA rating when a condition gets worse

If a service-connected condition has gotten worse, you can ask the VA to raise its rating.

How to file

Use VA Form 21-526EZ (the same form as a new claim) and select the condition that worsened. VA will look at current severity, usually with a new C&P exam, so document the worsening in your medical records first.

Back pay

An increase can reach back up to one year before you filed if records show it worsened in that window.

Know the risk

VA re-evaluates the condition, so a rating can stay the same or, rarely, be reduced if it improved. File when the evidence supports a higher rating. Protected ratings (in place 5, 10, or 20 years) are harder for VA to reduce.