The Veteran's PTSD with bipolar disorder was rated at 70 percent prior to October 22, 2018. The Board found that the symptoms did not meet the criteria for a higher rating as they were consistent with a 70 percent evaluation.
The deciding factor: The VA examination findings and medical records indicated that the Veteran had some deficiencies in several areas but these did not reach the level of total occupational and social impairment required for a 100% rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with Bipolar Disorder
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 70%
- Decision date
- November 19, 2019
- Citation
- 19186254
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.
- Partly granted
The Board granted a 70 percent rating for PTSD with bipolar disorder prior to August 20, 2020 and denied a rating in excess of 70 percent from that date.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
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This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.