Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious condition affecting many veterans due to their service-related experiences. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides disability compensation to eligible veterans suffering from PTSD. If you believe you may qualify for VA disability compensation for PTSD, this guide explains the requirements and processes.
Understanding VA Disability Compensation for PTSD
VA disability compensation is a tax-free benefit provided to veterans who have service-connected disabilities, including PTSD. You must meet specific criteria that establish a connection between your military service and your condition to qualify. The VA uses a structured approach to determine eligibility and assign a PTSD VA disability rating based on the severity of your symptoms.
Key Requirements for VA Disability Compensation for PTSD
To qualify for VA disability compensation, veterans must provide evidence of:
- A Current Diagnosis of PTSD. You need an official diagnosis from a qualified medical professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. The diagnosis must meet the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
- The Service-Related Stressor. A stressor refers to a traumatic event experienced during military service that caused or contributed to your PTSD. Examples include exposure to combat, witnessing death or injury, or experiencing assault. This stressor must be verified through military records, personal statements, or corroborative evidence like buddy statements.
- A Nexus Between Diagnosis and The Stressor. A medical opinion linking your current PTSD diagnosis to the service-related stressor is essential. This connection is known as the “nexus” and serves as proof that your condition stems from your military service.
Filing a Claim for VA Disability Compensation
The filing process for a PSTD claim with the VA for benefits involves multiple steps:
- Complete VA Form 21-526EZ. This form is used to initiate your claim for disability benefits. You can submit it online via the VA website, by mail, or in person at your nearest VA Regional Office.
- Submit Supporting Documents. Include VA Form 21-0781 (Statement in Support of Claim) to detail the traumatic event(s) that led to your PTSD. Additional evidence such as medical records, “buddy statements” from individuals who are familiar with your condition and how it impacts you, and independent psychological evaluations can strengthen your claim.
- Attend a C&P Exam. The VA will schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam to evaluate your symptoms and determine whether they are “at least as likely as not” related to your military service. The results of this exam play an essential role in assigning your PTSD VA disability rating.
An experienced veteran disability attorney can help you through the process and ensure that everything is completed and submitted correctly.
Understanding the PTSD VA Disability Rating
The VA assigns disability ratings based on the severity of your symptoms and their impact on social and occupational functioning. Ratings range from 0% to 100%, with higher percentages indicating greater impairment:
- 0%: Symptoms exist but do not interfere with work or social functioning.
- 10%–30%: Mild symptoms causing occasional decreases in work efficiency.
- 50%: Moderate symptoms affecting reliability and productivity.
- 70%: Severe symptoms leading to deficiencies in most areas of life.
- 100%: Total occupational and social impairment due to extreme symptoms like persistent delusions or inability to perform daily activities.
These ratings are determined by the information the VA has for review, including military and medical records.
Tips for Securing an Accurate Rating
To ensure you receive an accurate rating, make sure to:
- Be transparent about all symptoms during evaluations.
- Provide detailed evidence of how PTSD affects your daily life.
Consider seeking legal assistance if you believe your rating is too low or if your claim is denied. You have the right to appeal, and the rating you receive is not necessarily permanent.
Individual Unemployability (IU) Benefits
If your PTSD prevents you from maintaining gainful employment, you may qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU). This benefit allows veterans with severe disabilities to receive compensation at the 100% rate, even if their rating is less than 100%.
Qualifying for VA disability compensation for PTSD requires careful documentation and adherence to specific criteria. By providing strong evidence of your diagnosis, stressor event, and nexus, you can build a compelling case for benefits. If navigating the process is overwhelming, consider consulting with an experienced VA disability attorney who can guide you through each step.
Herren Law Helps Houston Veterans Appeal Veterans Disability Decision
Getting veterans disability benefits and back pay is a long, arduous process that takes patience as well as understanding the law. You do not need to handle your VA disability claim on your own. If your claim is denied, get immediate help to file your appeal from a veterans disability attorney.
William Herren is a veterans disability attorney who has helped more than 4,000 Houstonians get the benefits they deserve, including veterans. Call The Herren Law Firm today at 713-682-8194 (or use our online contact form) to schedule your free consultation. There’s no obligation, and we’ll take your case on a contingency fee basis, with no up-front charges. You don’t owe a fee until we win your case.
