Recently, I had a client who received a decision on his PTSD claim that confused him. The part that he did not understand was that the VA rated him at 0% for PTSD. He did not understand how that was possible. I assured him that there was no mistake, and that the VA can rate a Veteran at 0%.
I reminded the Veteran that PTSD is a condition that the VA can rate anywhere from 0-100%. In his case, they did not view the evidence provided as enough to rate him higher than 0%. This was still confusing, so I explained in detail how the VA is likely to decide a 0% rating.
The following are symptoms typical of a Veteran suffering from PTSD at 0%: A mental condition has been formally diagnosed, but symptoms are not severe enough to either to interfere with occupational and social functioning or to require continuous medication. Further, I explained to the Veteran that his GAF or Global Assessment of Function score played a part in his rating, too. This particular Veteran had a score that was between 91 and 100. The following are symptoms of a typical veteran who has a GAF score in this range: Superior functioning in a wide range of activities, life’s problems never seem to get out of hand, is sought out by others because of his or her many positive qualities.
(Remember every case is different, and these are just basic guidelines for PTSD)
This particular Veteran had a good rating for PTSD. However, if he had a lower GAF score, symptoms that warranted a higher rating, and enough evidence to show this, this is likely something that should be appealed. This is just one of the many services our law firm provides. If you are a Veteran who is suffering from PTSD, or if you have been rated at a percent you believe to be too low, don’t hesitate to give our office a call for a free consultation: 1-877-526-3457.Or Tell us about your case. Our law firm is dedicated to helping Veterans, and we have the knowledge, people, and resources to get you the help you deserve.
