The Veteran's depressive disorder is now rated at 70 percent effective October 15, 2016. His right shoulder disability has been granted a 40 percent rating since May 22, 2013, and a 30 percent rating from May 22, 2013 to May 25, 2018.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's depressive disorder improved after his wife passed away in October 2016, resulting in increased symptoms that led to a higher rating of 70 percent effective October 15, 2016. His right shoulder disability met the criteria for a 40 percent rating since May 22, 2013.
- Claimed conditions
- Depressive Disorder, Bilateral Shoulder Disabilities (Right and Left)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 70%
- Decision date
- September 25, 2019
- Citation
- 19174840
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 19174840.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for service connection for PTSD has been dismissed as the claim was granted and effective from February 22, 2023.
- Granted
The Veteran's psychiatric disorder, specifically depressive disorder, is rated at 70 percent effective from August 3, 2021. The claim for a higher rating remains denied.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's service-connected Depressive Disorder is causing him to require regular assistance in keeping himself clean and presentable, which may qualify him for special monthly compensation based on need for aid and attendance. The case is being remanded to schedule a VA examination to assess this issue.
- Granted
The Veteran's depressive disorder is rated at 70 percent, effective from the date of service connection (January 23, 2020), due to occupational and social impairment with deficiencies in most areas.
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