The Veteran's service-connected somatic symptom disorder with depression is rated at 70 percent, but the appeal for a higher rating is denied. A total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected psychiatric disorders is granted from December 2, 2013 to January 3, 2014.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's symptoms did not meet the criteria for a 100 percent rating and were more consistent with a 70 percent rating. The evidence showed occupational and social impairment but not total impairment.
- Claimed conditions
- somatic symptom disorder with depression
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 70%
- Decision date
- October 8, 2019
- Citation
- A19001794
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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