The Veteran's initial service connection for depressive disorder was granted in March 2017, and the appellant was awarded fees based on that grant. The June 2015 fee agreement only applies to grants of past-due benefits involving depression, left leg neuropathy, and a back injury. The May 2021 increase to 30 percent for depressive disorder is considered a separate issue, and the appellant's direct pay fee agreement does not cover such increases.
The deciding factor: The June 2015 fee agreement only covers grants of past-due benefits involving service connection for depression, left leg neuropathy, and a back injury. The May 2021 increase to 30 percent for depressive disorder is considered a separate issue from the initial grant of service connection.
- Claimed conditions
- Depressive Disorder
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- December 9, 2024
- Citation
- A24081634
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 A24081634.
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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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