Rating Decision

VA Terminology Definition

Plain English Definition

The official VA document explaining their decision on your claim - what was granted, denied, and why, plus your rating percentage.

Why This Matters

The rating decision explains the VA's reasoning. Read it carefully to understand why you got the rating you did or why you were denied. This information guides your appeal strategy.

Example

Your rating decision shows PTSD granted at 50%. The reasons section explains the examiner found 'occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability' - the criteria for 50%, not 70%.