Step 1: Understand How VA Disability Ratings Work

The VA uses a specific formula to determine your disability rating, assigning a percentage for each service-connected condition. These percentages are combined using a “whole person” approach rather than adding them up directly. For example, two 50% disabilities do not equal 100% but are instead combined to create a 75% disability rating, which would then be rounded up to 80%. You need a specific combination of conditions or an increase in severity to reach the 100% rating.

Step 2: Evaluate Your Current Service-Connected Conditions

To increase your rating from 90% to 100%, start by looking at the conditions that make up your current rating. You may already have one or more conditions rated at 50% or 70%, and to increase your overall rating to 100%, the most likely path is to either:

• Increase the rating for a current condition: If your disability has worsened, you may be able to request a higher rating for that condition.
• Add a new condition: If you have other service-connected disabilities that aren’t currently rated, you can file for additional conditions.

Step 3: Request an Increase for a Condition

If you believe that one of your current service-connected disabilities has worsened, you can apply for an increased rating. The process to do so involves submitting a Request for Increase to the VA. Here’s how to go about it:

• Gather Updated Medical Evidence: To request an increase, you need to show that your condition has worsened since your last VA examination. This typically includes updated medical records, doctor’s reports, and any recent treatments or tests.
• File a VA Claim for Increased Disability: You can file for an increased rating online using the VA’s eBenefits portal, or you can submit a paper claim. Be sure to include all medical documentation that supports your claim.
• Prepare for a Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exam: If the VA schedules a new exam for you, be sure to attend and explain how your condition has worsened. The examiner will evaluate the severity of your condition based on the VA’s rating criteria.

Step 4: Seek Additional Service-Connected Disabilities

If you have other health conditions that were caused or aggravated by your military service but have not been rated by the VA, you may be able to seek service connection for those conditions. This could involve conditions like:

• Mental Health Disorders: PTSD, anxiety, depression, etc.
• Physical Injuries: Joint problems, back pain, hearing loss, etc.
• Secondary Conditions: Conditions that may be caused by your primary service-connected disabilities (e.g., depression caused by chronic pain).

By seeking service connection for additional disabilities, you may receive higher overall disability ratings, helping you reach 100%.

Step 5: File for TDIU (Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability)

If your service-connected disabilities prevent you from working, you might qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), which is a benefit for veterans who are unable to maintain gainful employment due to their service-connected disabilities. TDIU can grant you a 100% disability rating, even if your combined disability rating is less than 100%.

• Eligibility for TDIU: To qualify for TDIU, you must have at least one disability rated at 60% or higher, or a combination of disabilities that equates to at least 70%, with one disability rated at 40% or higher. Additionally, your service-connected disabilities must prevent you from securing or following a substantially gainful occupation.
• How to Apply for TDIU: You can apply for TDIU by filing an official claim for TDIU with the VA, either online through eBenefits or by submitting a paper form. You’ll need to provide evidence of how your disabilities prevent you from working, including medical records and statements from doctors.

Step 6: Ensure All Evidence Is Submitted

When seeking an increase or additional service-connected conditions, ensure that you submit all relevant evidence to support your claim. This includes:

• Medical Records: Gather updated medical records, treatment history, and documentation of any worsened symptoms.
• Buddy Statements: Statements from family, friends, or fellow veterans who can speak to how your disability has affected your life can be very helpful.
• Employment Records: If applying for TDIU, provide documentation showing how your disabilities have affected your ability to work.

Step 7: Consider Hiring a Veterans’ Disability Attorney or Advocate

The VA claims process can be complex, and going from 90% to 100% disability is often challenging. A veterans’ disability attorney or accredited VA representative can help you navigate the system, gather the necessary evidence, and ensure that your claim is presented in the best possible light. An attorney can also assist with:

• Appeals: If your claim for an increase is denied, an attorney can help you file an appeal.
• Documentation: They can help you collect and present the strongest evidence to support your claim.

Step 8: Be Prepared for the VA’s Response

After submitting your request for an increase or new disability claim, the VA will review your case and may schedule a C&P exam (Compensation and Pension examination) to assess the severity of your conditions. Once the exam and review are complete, you’ll receive a decision.

• Approval: If your claim is successful, your disability rating will increase to 100%, and you will begin receiving higher compensation and benefits.
• Denial: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.