The Veteran's claim for an increased disability evaluation for multiple sclerosis with depressive disorder and insomnia is denied. The claims for increased evaluations of right lower extremity muscle weakness (prior to December 11, 2020) and left lower extremity muscle weakness (prior to December 11, 2020) are also denied.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's symptoms do not meet the criteria for a higher disability evaluation as his impairment is primarily characterized by depression, anxiety, and chronic sleep impairment, which align with the current 50% rating assigned under Diagnostic Code 8018 - 9434.
- Claimed conditions
- Multiple Sclerosis, Depressive Disorder, Insomnia
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 50%
- Decision date
- March 30, 2026
- Citation
- A26028485
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 A26028485.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the case for additional development, including obtaining records of the Appellant's reserve component service and conducting a VA examination to determine if her multiple sclerosis is related to service.
- 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.
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