The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for congestive heart failure with coronary artery disease, status-post myocardial infarction was denied as his current MET level does not meet the criteria for a 100% rating. The claim for SMC based on need for aid and attendance was also denied due to lack of evidence showing he is in need of regular aid and assistance.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's current MET level, estimated between greater than 3-5 METs, does not meet the criteria for a 100% rating as per the amended rating criteria effective November 14, 2021. The VA examiner found that his cardiac condition alone did not warrant a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Congestive Heart Failure, Coronary Artery Disease (status-post myocardial infarction), Major Depressive Disorder
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 60%
- Decision date
- April 15, 2026
- Citation
- A26035016
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 A26035016.
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
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