The Veteran's PTSD with major depressive disorder was found to be manifested by irritability, panic attacks, near-constant depression, and suicidal ideation. The Board determined that the symptoms did not meet the criteria for a 100% rating but approximated those of a 70% rating. Therefore, the claim for a higher rating was denied. Additionally, the Veteran's service-connected disabilities were found to render him unable to secure or follow substantially gainful employment, leading to a grant of TDIU.
The deciding factor: The severity and frequency of the Veteran's symptoms did not meet the criteria for a 100% disability rating but approximated those of a 70% rating. The Board found that total occupational and social impairment had not been shown due to the Veteran's ability to interact with others in a productive way, despite his symptoms.
- Claimed conditions
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with major depressive disorder, recurrent, severe without psychosis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 70%
- Decision date
- December 28, 2021
- Citation
- A21020573
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 A21020573.
What this means for you
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- Denied
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- Granted
The Veteran's claim for service connection for PTSD is granted as the evidence shows a current diagnosis of PTSD, an in-service stressor, and a medical link between the two.
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