The veteran was granted service connection for several conditions, including unspecified depressive disorder rated at 70%, tinnitus, headaches, hypertension, left and right knee conditions, and total disability due to individual unemployability (TDIU). The claim for an earlier effective date for the depressive disorder and service connection for hearing loss were denied. Claims for GERD, bilateral eye condition, COPD, and lower back disability were remanded.

The deciding factor: The Board considered all evidence of record, including lay and medical statements, to determine the ratings and service connections.

Claimed conditions

unspecified depressive disorder, tinnitus, headaches, hypertension, left knee condition, right knee condition, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), bilateral eye condition, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lower back disability, hearing loss

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

70%

Decision date

January 15, 2025

Citation

A25003518

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