A change in how news is handled

To increase your VA disability rating, you must submit new and relevant evidence demonstrating either a worsening of your service-connected conditions or the presence of a new secondary condition; you cannot receive an increased evaluation based on public news about potential VA changes. For an increase, you must file a claim for increase (VA Form 21-526EZ) supported by current medical evidence, such as treatment records or a nexus letter, that shows the increased severity of your disability and its impact on your occupational and social functioning, as outlined in the **38 CFR § 4.130** rating criteria for mental disorders (e.g., Diagnostic Code 9411 for PTSD) or the appropriate schedule for physical conditions. Per **38 CFR § 3.303(b)**, secondary conditions require medical evidence establishing a causal link to a primary service-connected disability. The *DeLuca v. Brown* case is relevant for establishing increased severity, as it allows you to describe how your disability affects your ability to function during flare-ups or over time. Actionable next steps: 1) Gather all recent private and VA medical records documenting your symptoms; 2) Consider obtaining an independent medical opinion (IMO) to nexus a worsening or secondary condition; 3) File a fully developed claim with this evidence, explicitly requesting a reevaluation; and 4) If denied, promptly appeal within one year to preserve the earliest effective date for back pay. **Disclaimer: This is educational information for claims strategy, not legal or medical advice; consult an accredited VA attorney or agent for your specific case.**