The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottic larynx was denied. The Board found that his service-connected disabilities did not prevent him from obtaining and maintaining gainful employment prior to September 26, 2016 and from November 1, 2017 to December 19, 2017. However, the issue of TDIU was moot as he received a 100% rating for his service-connected disabilities and SMC under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(s) and 38 C.F.R. § 3.350(i).
The deciding factor: The Veteran's service-connected disabilities did not prevent him from obtaining and maintaining gainful employment during the periods in question.
- Claimed conditions
- squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottic larynx, group XXII muscles of the front of the neck, PTSD, degenerative joint disease of the right knee, tinnitus, dermatitis of the face and scalp, residual scars
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 50%
- Decision date
- September 6, 2018
- Citation
- 18132273
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 18132273.
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
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board of Veterans' Appeals has granted service connection for PTSD and Mood Disorders, both presumed conditions under the PACT Act.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the claims for service connection for hearing loss, tinnitus, and an acquired psychiatric disorder due to incomplete medical records and need for further examination.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for tinnitus, arthritis, and memory loss. The decision found no evidence linking these conditions to his military service.
- Granted
The Veteran's tinnitus is granted as service connected. The issues of foot disability and cardiovascular disorder are remanded for additional development.
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