Veterans who served in combat and later developed PTSD, hearing loss, or a back condition like degenerative disc disease can file a claim for service-connected disability compensation even years after separation. There is no deadline to file, and conditions do not need to have been treated immediately upon leaving service, though a clear record helps.
For PTSD, the VA generally requires a current diagnosis, evidence of an in-service stressor, and a medical link (nexus) between the stressor and the diagnosis. Under 38 CFR 3.304(f), if the stressor is related to combat and is consistent with the veteran's service circumstances, the veteran's own testimony can be enough to establish the stressor without additional corroborating evidence. A private or VA mental health provider's statement connecting current symptoms to service can strengthen the claim significantly.
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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Analyze my claim free →Hearing loss claims require an audiological exam showing a qualifying loss under 38 CFR 3.385, along with evidence connecting the loss to in-service noise exposure (combat, weapons fire, engine noise, etc.). Buddy statements describing the noise environment can help establish exposure, especially if service records do not fully capture it.
For degenerative disc disease, especially when it appears shortly after discharge, the key is establishing a nexus between military duties (heavy lifting, parachute jumps, prolonged wear of gear, vehicle impacts, etc.) and the current spinal condition. An MRI or imaging report, along with a treating provider's opinion, is usually necessary.
A veteran can start the process by submitting VA Form 21-526EZ, either independently or with the help of an accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative, who can assist at no cost. Filing a VA Form 21-0966 Intent to File first can preserve an earlier effective date while evidence is gathered. A Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam will likely be scheduled for each condition claimed.
Regarding the appealed VA decisions in VetAid's library, of PTSD appeals with a recorded disposition, 52% were vacated or remanded, 27% affirmed, and 6% reversed or granted outright; for hearing loss appeals, 49% were vacated or remanded, 29% affirmed, and 8% reversed or granted. These figures describe outcomes for cases that were already denied and then appealed, not the odds of success on an initial claim, and appealed cases are not a representative sample of all veterans who file.
The concrete next step is to file an Intent to File and begin gathering service records, medical evidence, and lay statements while consulting a VSO to help build and submit the formal claim.
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