For disabled veterans, the VA’s approval rate is not stellar. Estimates are that between six and seven out of every ten VA disability claims will be initially denied. This number means that a typical, unassuming disability claim submitted by a veteran has a better than not chance of being denied, necessitating an appeal.
But not all disabling conditions are the same. As a result, some veterans with similar conditions may find that, as a group, their claims are routinely approved while veterans with other conditions face a more difficult time. This post will identify five of the most commonly approved conditions for VA disability claims.
Why Knowing Which Conditions Get Approved Matters
Knowing the conditions for which the VA is likely to approve claims has more value than simple trivia. If you submit a claim based on one of these convictions, you can be reasonably certain that you should receive a prompt approval. If not, barring something unusual, you would have a better-than-not chance of succeeding on appeal.
Five Commonly Approved Conditions
Some of the conditions listed in VA disability claims that routinely get approved include:
- Tinnitus, a condition that results in “ringing in the ears” and caused by exposure to gunfire, explosions, and other loud noises
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder
- Disorders of the musculoskeletal system, which often include a reduction in the range of motion of hands, feet, arms, legs, shoulders, and hips
- Scars listed in VA disability claims will usually result in some benefits, but in order to result in a high disability rating, the scarring will almost always have to result in reduced mobility or another condition
- Presumptive disorders, such as the conditions associated with exposure to Agent Orange or toxic burn pits
If you receive a denial after submitting a claim listing one or more of these conditions, chances are good that you made some mistake in completing your initial claim. Alternatively, a denial may have issued because you did not adequately identify records that would support your claim.
Next Steps Following Denial of a Claim for Commonly Approved Conditions
Veterans who have their VA disability claims denied by the Administration have several ways of appealing that denial. Each method has its pros and cons and each method takes a varying amount of time.
For these and other commonly approved conditions, you and your attorney may decide it is best to supplement your claim with additional documentation. Not only is this a simple process, but it is one of the quicker appeal methods available to veterans.
Contact Valor Law for Assistance in Securing VA Disability Benefits
If you have applied for VA disability benefits and have had your claim denied, you need to take prompt action to protect your right to benefits. Call Valor Firm at (504) 218-2510 or reach out to us online as soon as possible. Our experienced team is available to help veterans throughout the nation appeal wrongful denials of claims and get the disability benefits they deserve for their service-related injuries.