First, meticulously review your VA decision letter's "Reasons for Decision" section to identify the precise deficiency—typically a lack of (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an in-service event, or (3) a medical nexus linking the two, per the service-connection requirements of **38 CFR § 3.303**. For mental health claims, compare your symptoms to the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders in **38 CFR § 4.130**, Diagnostic Code 9400, as the Board in *Buchanan v. Nicholson* clarified ratings must align with this criteria. Your actionable next step is to select a lane for appeal: 1) a Supplemental Claim (**VA Form 20-0995**) to submit **new and relevant** evidence (e.g., an independent medical nexus opinion addressing the denial rationale), 2) a Higher-Level Review (**VA Form 20-0996**) for a fresh look by a senior adjudicator if you believe the evidence on file was misapplied (errors of fact or law, per *DeLuca*), or 3) a direct appeal to the Board. Immediately consult an accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), claims agent, or attorney (free through state departments or organizations like the DAV) who can obtain your claims file and help you strategize based on the specific legal errors or evidentiary gaps cited. **Disclaimer: This is educational information for claims assistance and is not legal or medical advice; consult with an accredited professional for your specific case.**
Need a deeper analysis?
Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.
Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.
| Rating | Monthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
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