For many veterans, receiving notice of a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for a PTSD increase triggers anxiety, fear, and emotional stress. These exams often require veterans to revisit deeply painful experiences while knowing that the outcome can directly affect monthly compensation, access to benefits, and long-term financial security.
Unlike an initial PTSD claim, a PTSD increase exam is not about proving that your condition is real or service-connected. Instead, the VA is evaluating whether your symptoms have worsened since your last exam and whether they now meet higher rating thresholds under federal law.
“A PTSD increase exam is not a test of credibility it’s a test of severity over time,” explained by Brian Reese, founder of VA Claims Insider, said by him while advising veterans preparing for mental health exams.
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Understanding how these exams work and how the VA applies the law can significantly improve your chances of receiving the correct rating.
PTSD C&P Review Exam for Increased VA Disability Compensation
A PTSD review exam is ordered when a veteran is already service-connected for PTSD (rated at 0% or higher) and files a claim for an increased rating or requests a review of a recent decision.
“You already won service connection now the VA is only measuring how much your condition has progressed,” explained by Brian Reese, said during a veteran education briefing.
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These exams apply to both combat-related and non-combat PTSD and are commonly scheduled when:
- Symptoms have worsened
- Treatment intensity has increased
- Work or social functioning has declined
- The VA needs updated medical evidence
What the VA Is Evaluating During a PTSD Increase Exam?
The VA evaluates PTSD using the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders, focusing on occupational and social impairment, not just diagnosis.
“PTSD ratings are driven by functional loss how the condition limits your ability to live and work,” explained by Laura Simmons, said while discussing VA mental health standards.
Key evaluation areas include:
- Ability to work or maintain employment
- Social and family relationships
- Judgment, thinking, and mood stability
- Anger control and impulse regulation
- Ability to manage daily responsibilities
What to Expect During a VA PTSD C&P Exam for an Increase?
Medical Record Review
The examiner reviews treatment records since your last PTSD exam, including therapy notes, medications, and hospitalizations.
“Escalating treatment is often a strong indicator of worsening PTSD,” explained by Laura Simmons, said during a clinical training session.
Discussion of Current PTSD Symptoms
Expect questions about:
- Nightmares and intrusive thoughts
- Panic attacks and anxiety
- Depression and emotional numbness
- Irritability or anger outbursts
- Avoidance and isolation
“Veterans should describe their worst days not their best coping moments,” explained by Brian Reese, said during PTSD exam coaching sessions.
Impact on Daily Life and Work
The examiner evaluates how PTSD affects employment, relationships, sleep, focus, and motivation.
“Occupational and social impairment is the backbone of every PTSD rating decision,” explained by Courtney Hall, said while analyzing VA mental health claims.
Mental Status Evaluation
This includes observation of mood, speech, memory, thought process, hygiene, and insight. Sensitive topics like suicidal ideation may be discussed.
PTSD Review DBQ Completion
Findings are recorded on the PTSD Review Disability Benefits Questionnaire, which heavily influences the VA’s final decision.
“In most PTSD increase cases, the DBQ carries more weight than any single treatment note,” explained by Brian Reese, said while reviewing VA rating decisions.
PTSD VA Rating Levels Explained
| VA Rating | Primary Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Occasional work impairment, chronic sleep problems, mild memory loss |
| 50% | Reduced reliability, frequent panic attacks, difficulty maintaining relationships |
| 70% | Deficiencies in most areas, near-continuous anxiety or depression, impaired impulse control |
| 100% | Total occupational and social impairment, inability to work, severe cognitive symptoms |
“Most PTSD increase claims succeed or fail at the 70% threshold,” explained by Courtney Hall, said while reviewing VA appeals outcomes.
How to Prepare for Your PTSD Increase C&P Exam?
Gather Updated Medical Evidence
Bring therapy notes, medication lists, and recent mental health records.
“Never assume the examiner has your full file bring your strongest evidence,” explained by Angela Morris, said while advising claimants.
Document Symptoms and Functional Loss
Maintain a symptom diary showing:
- Panic frequency
- Sleep disruption
- Anger episodes
- Missed work or isolation
Be Uncomfortably Vulnerable
This exam requires honesty, even when it feels difficult.
“Veterans who open up fully give the examiner the clearest picture of reality,” explained by Laura Simmons, said during PTSD assessment discussions.
Common PTSD Increase Exam Questions
- Have your symptoms worsened since your last exam?
- How often do you experience panic attacks or nightmares?
- How does PTSD affect your ability to work?
- Do you isolate from others?
- Are treatments helping or failing?
Answer clearly, truthfully, and with real-life examples.
Why PTSD Increase Exams Matter?
An increased PTSD rating can raise monthly compensation and unlock additional benefits such as TDIU eligibility.
“This single exam can affect a veteran’s income for decades,” explained by Angela Morris, said while discussing long-term benefits planning.
Final Thought
A PTSD C&P exam for an increase is challenging but preparation, documentation, and honesty can dramatically improve outcomes. Veterans are not being judged; they are being evaluated under a legal framework designed to measure functional loss.
“You earned these benefits your story deserves to be fully heard,” explained by Brian Reese, said while concluding his guidance to veterans.
FAQs
Do I need to prove PTSD again?
No. Service connection is already established.
Should I talk about my worst days?
Yes. The VA rates based on severity, not coping ability.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, though it’s optional.
Can this exam lower my rating?
Yes, if evidence shows improvement, though this is less common.
How long does the exam usually last?
Typically 30–90 minutes, depending on complexity.
