The veteran's service-connected PTSD with alcohol dependency and cannabis abuse is rated at 50 percent, which is the maximum rating available for this condition. The evidence does not support a higher rating or entitlement to a total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to his service-connected disabilities.
The deciding factor: The veteran's symptoms of difficulty in establishing and maintaining social and work relationships, depression, and irritability do not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the applicable diagnostic codes. Additionally, the evidence does not show that his service-connected PTSD and hypertension render him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation.
- Claimed conditions
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with alcohol dependency and cannabis abuse
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 50%
- Decision date
- April 17, 2008
- Citation
- 0812740
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
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