Rating Reductions

A letter proposing to lower your VA rating is not a final decision, and VA has to prove your condition has actually improved before it can reduce you. This page explains how a rating reduction works from start to finish. It covers the 30-day window to ask for a hearing so your payments stay the same while VA decides, the 60-day window to send evidence, what VA must show, and the 5-, 10- and 20-year protections. It also covers special rules for 100%, TDIU, cancer and temporary ratings, the evidence that helps keep a rating, and your options if VA reduces you anyway. Use the checker to find your deadlines and see which protections you may have. Download the Rating Reductions Guide (PDF) for a printable version with a deadline and protection worksheet, an evidence checklist, a sample response letter, and symptom and contact logs. Veterans Claims Education provides general information only and does not assist with or file claims; for help with your claim, contact a free VA-accredited representative.