How to Read & Understand Your VA Rating Decision

So, you received your VA Rating Decision, now what? 

Your rating decision is without question, one of the most important documents in the claims process.   On average, the time between filing for disability benefits and receiving a decision letter can take between 90 days -11.5 months. Timing depends on the type of claim you filed, the number of injuries, or disabilities on your claim, and their complexities. It also depends on the length of time it takes the VA to collect the evidence needed to decide your claim. Just remember that when you’re dealing with the VA, it is a marathon and not a race.

Once you receive your RD, it is important that you know how to read and understand your decision letter. The 4 main things you should know when reviewing your decision letter:

The differences between the cover letter (Narrative) and the decision letter

The Narrative is the cover letter. It is an explanation of the determination on benefit entitlement. It makes it easier for the Veteran to understand which conditions they will receive benefits for and the corresponding ratings assigned. The decision letter is the actual Rating Decision (RD). A Rating Decision, often referred to as a RD, is a document that details the formal determination made by the regional office (RO) rating activity regarding one or more issues of benefit entitlement. The rating states the decision that was made and provides an explanation supporting each decision. 

Here are some examples:

First Page of Rating Decision

The different sections of the decision letter

The RD contains 4 sections:

1. Introduction

• Identifies the claimant
• Acknowledges the Veteran’s qualifying service, including any special considerations relevant to the claim, such as former prison or war status

2. Decision for each issue considered

• Service Connection
• Increased evaluation
• Any special monthly compensation (SMC)
• Any deferred issues

3. Evidence

• List of all evidence considered in arriving at the decision. This may include, but is not limited to service treatment records (STRs), military personnel records (MPRs), and treatment records (private and VA), buddy letters, doctor letters, and any images.

4. Reason for decision for each issue considered

• This section of the RD is where the VA explains in clear detail how the relevant facts were evaluated in making the decision.

The importance of the date on the decision letter

The date on the decision letter is extremely important. A Veteran has 1 year from the date on the decision letter to file a Higher-Level Review (HLR) or a Board Appeal.

What does deferred mean?

When an issue has been deferred in a RD, it means the issue needs further development in order for the VA to reach a decision. The VA will then take whatever steps are necessary to continue developing the claim, or request any additional information needed from the Veteran. Many times, it is an opportunity for the Veteran to submit additional evidence to support their claim. Remember, a deferral is neither good, or bad. It only means more information is needed. 

Your rating decision is the key to obtaining the disability benefits you are seeking, and understanding your rating decision will help you navigate the process easier. Receiving a RD is a good thing. It means your claims are progressing through the VA system. Whether you receive a favorable decision, or a decision you want to appeal, when it comes to the VA, any movement is movement in a positive direction.