Definitions of common VA claims terms
The federal regulation containing the VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, which defines how each disability is evaluated and rated.
Annual Retroactive Payment of Benefits. A lump-sum payment covering benefits owed from the effective date of the claim to the present.
Benefits Delivery at Discharge. A program allowing service members to file VA disability claims 180-90 days before separation.
A 10% increase applied when a veteran has matching disabilities on both sides of the body (e.g., both knees, both hearing loss).
A written statement from someone who witnessed your condition, symptoms, or the event that caused your disability. Can be from fellow service members, family, or friends.
Compensation and Pension examination. A medical exam ordered by the VA to evaluate the severity of your claimed conditions and their connection to service.
The overall disability rating calculated using VA math, where each rating is applied to the remaining "whole person" percentage rather than simply added together.
Disability Benefits Questionnaire. A standardized form that doctors use to document the severity of disabilities. Can be completed by private physicians.
A number assigned to each disability in 38 CFR Part 4 that identifies the specific condition and its rating criteria.
A disability that was directly caused by an event, injury, or disease during military service.
A medical opinion from your doctor stating that your current disability is "at least as likely as not" connected to your military service. Critical evidence for service connection.
The date from which VA benefits begin. Usually the date of claim or the date entitlement arose, whichever is later.
A claim submitted with all necessary evidence, allowing for faster processing. Veterans certify they have no additional evidence to submit.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. A common condition among veterans, often secondary to medications or stress-related conditions.
Higher-Level Review. An appeal option where a senior reviewer examines the claim decision for errors without considering new evidence.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome. A gastrointestinal condition commonly claimed as secondary to PTSD or anxiety.
Independent Medical Opinion. A medical opinion from a private doctor that can support service connection or increased rating.
A notification to VA that you plan to file a claim, preserving your effective date for up to one year while you gather evidence.
Evidence from non-medical sources, such as personal statements, buddy statements, or family observations about symptoms and limitations.
Military Sexual Trauma. Sexual assault or harassment experienced during military service, which can lead to PTSD and other conditions.
The Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (2022). Expanded VA benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.
The prohibited practice of rating the same symptoms under multiple diagnostic codes. VA rules prevent double-counting symptoms.
The VA's system for assigning percentage ratings to disabilities based on their severity and impact on earning capacity.
A disability caused or aggravated by an already service-connected condition. For example, depression caused by chronic pain.
VA determination that a disability is related to military service, required for compensation benefits.
Special Monthly Compensation. Additional compensation for severe disabilities or specific situations like loss of limb or need for aid and attendance.
Service Treatment Records. Medical records from your time in military service, essential evidence for many claims.
A claim filed after a denial that includes new and relevant evidence not previously considered.
Total Disability Individual Unemployability. Allows veterans rated less than 100% to receive 100% compensation if their disabilities prevent substantial gainful employment.
Traumatic Brain Injury. Brain injury caused by trauma, commonly from blast exposure, falls, or vehicle accidents during service.
The method VA uses to calculate combined ratings. Each rating is applied to the remaining whole person, not simply added. Example: 50% + 30% = 65%, not 80%.
Veterans Affairs Medical Center. VA hospitals that provide healthcare to eligible veterans.
Veterans Benefits Management System. The VA's electronic claims processing system.
Veterans Service Organization. Organizations like DAV, VFW, and American Legion that provide free claims assistance to veterans.