Veterans who receive Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation often feel anxious at the prospect of a proposed rating reduction. A letter from the VA proposing to lower or eliminate a service-connected disability rating can be deeply unsettling, threatening not only financial stability but also the acknowledgement of a veteran’s sacrifices. However, understanding how VA rating reductions work, your due process rights, and the essential legal protections in place can empower you to respond effectively and safeguard the benefits you’ve earned.

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How VA Disability Rating Reductions Happen

A VA disability rating reduction can be triggered in several common scenarios:

  • Scheduled Reevaluation: For conditions expected to improve—such as cancers after treatment—the VA may schedule exams six months to a year after therapy. Missing these exams usually results in an automatic reduction, so attending is critical, even if you believe the reevaluation is unnecessary.