The Veteran's initial ratings for cervical spine disability and major depressive disorder were denied, with the cervical spine rating remaining at 30 percent.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine or Diagnostic Code 5242, as there was no unfavorable ankylosis. The Veteran's major depressive disorder also did not meet the criteria for a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine with degenerative arthritis of the spine, Recurrent major depressive disorder
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- May 8, 2020
- Citation
- 20032680
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 20032680.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board has restored the Veteran's 70 percent rating for recurrent major depressive disorder, effective October 1, 2021, as the reduction was improper and his symptoms did not improve.
- Granted
The Board has restored the Veteran's 70 percent rating for recurrent major depressive disorder, effective October 1, 2021, as the reduction was improper and his symptoms did not improve.
- Granted
The Veteran's claim for an earlier effective date of May 12, 2021 for the assignment of a 70 percent disability rating for recurrent major depressive disorder is granted. The Veteran's claims for increased ratings are denied.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities rendered him unable to secure and follow any form of substantially gainful employment prior to April 16, 2023. Basic eligibility for Dependents' Educational Assistance was also established.
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