While no claim is truly “guaranteed,” there are certain conditions and claims that, with the proper medical evidence and service connection, are highly likely to be approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs. These are often referred to as “high-probability” or “presumptive” claims. As an experienced veteran-owned independent medical opinion company, we understand the medical language and medical documentation that give VA claims the best chance at success.
In this article, we will walk you through several VA disability claims that often get approved when filed correctly with strong supporting evidence and how you can increase your chances of a favorable decision.
What “Guarantee” in VA Disability Claims Truly Means
Let’s set the record straight: the VA never officially guarantees the approval of any disability claim. Each claim is reviewed on its unique circumstances and evidence. However, there are types of claims that historically have a very high approval rate when supported with relevant and comprehensive documentation. These cases often involve either well-established presumptive conditions or clear, in-service incidents backed by medical records.
The easiest VA disability claims to get approved are not about tricking the system, but about presenting a bulletproof case that clearly meets the VA’s criteria. This involves providing evidence for the three pillars of a successful claim:
- A current medical diagnosis of a service-connected disability,
- Evidence of an in-service event, illness, or injury that caused or worsened your condition,
- A nexus opinion (link) between the current diagnosis and military service.
Moreover, disability claims that are supported by thorough medical evidence, service treatment records (STRs), and credible lay statements tend to have a much higher chance of approval.
Here are the types of VA disability claims considered almost guaranteed when supported by strong evidence:
1. Presumptive Conditions Based on Exposure
Presumptive conditions are the health issues the VA automatically recognizes as likely caused by service in specific environments or situations. Veterans with qualifying service who are diagnosed with one of these conditions typically have a much smoother claims process.
Some of the most notable presumptive VA claims include:
- Agent Orange Exposure: Veterans who served in Vietnam or surrounding areas are presumed by the VA to have been exposed to Agent Orange. Conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Chronic B-cell Leukemias, Ischemic Heart Disease, and various forms of cancers are on the VA’s Agent Orange Presumptive List.
- Burn Pit Exposure: Post-9/11 veterans exposed to burn pits and airborne toxins during service in Iraq, Afghanistan, Southwest Asia, or other qualifying regions can now file presumptive VA claims for asthma, chronic bronchitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, and certain respiratory cancers under the PACT Act.
- Camp Lejeune Water Contamination: Veterans and family members who lived or worked at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1953 and December 1987 may claim conditions like kidney cancer, liver cancer, leukemia, and Parkinson’s disease.
- Gulf War Syndrome: Veterans who served in the Persian Gulf region starting August 1990 may receive benefits for chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), despite unclear medical causes.
- Radiation Exposure: Atomic veterans or those exposed to radiation during service (nuclear testing or Fukushima response) may claim cancers such as leukemia, thyroid cancer, and others.
- Military Sexual Trauma (MST): Veterans can easily receive benefits for mental health conditions like PTSD, depression, or anxiety resulting from MST, even without needing to prove their trauma. PTSD linked to military sexual trauma is considered service-connected if it is consistent with in-service events.
Key Evidence to Include:
Veterans only need to show three things:
- Proof of service in the eligible location and timeframe (e.g., DD214, deployment orders).
- Current medical diagnosis of the presumptive condition.
- Medical nexus is generally established due to the presumptive nature, but evidence that their condition is recognized by the VA for that type of exposure is necessary.
These factors make presumptive condition claims among the closest to guaranteed VA disability claims.
2. PTSD and Mental Health Disorders
Mental health claims, especially for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder, are not only strong contenders for VA approval but also carry higher VA disability ratings than many physical conditions. In fact, veterans suffering from PTSD are frequently rated at 50% or higher, with 70% being the most common rating.
The VA’s acknowledgment of military-related psychological trauma has made it easier for veterans to secure benefits when these conditions are properly documented.
What Makes a VA Mental Health Claim Often Successful?
- A confirmed stressor: This could include combat exposure, military sexual trauma (MST), witnessing death, IED blasts, or involvement in life-threatening situations. Combat veterans may benefit from reduced burden of proof.
- A formal medical diagnosis: A licensed mental health professional must confirm the condition.
- A nexus statement: This letter connects the diagnosed condition to the in-service stressor and is often provided during a VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam.
- A personal statement: A strong Statement in Support of Mental Health Claim (VA Form 21-0781) detailing in-service traumatic events and their lasting psychological impact.
Additionally, veterans can include their ongoing mental health treatment or therapy notes from the VA or statements from fellow service members or family to support the claim.
PTSD often provides a foundation for many secondary claims, such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, making it a high-value VA claim.
Upcoming changes: In 2025, the VA is updating its mental health rating criteria to better reflect the real-life impact on veterans by offering a guaranteed minimum of a 10% rating for diagnosed conditions.
3. Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
Tinnitus and hearing loss are among the most common and easily approved VA disability claims, often filed together due to their shared causes and symptoms. It is often experienced as persistent ringing, buzzing, phantom noises, or clicking in the ears. In 2023, the Veterans Benefits Administration said tinnitus was the most frequently claimed service-connected disability, with nearly 3 million veterans guaranteed compensation.
Hearing loss is another common VA claim and is often service-connected through documented exposure to loud military environments.
Both tinnitus and hearing loss are closely linked to loud military noise exposure, common around aircraft, artillery, and combat zones. When together claimed by veterans, they often lead to stronger VA claims in some instances.
Why These Claims Are Easy to Claim:
- Tinnitus is based on self-reported symptoms, with no definitive medical test required for diagnosis.
- Birth tinnitus and hearing loss are often service-connected through documented exposure to loud military environments.
- The VA commonly approves tinnitus claims with a standard 10% rating under Diagnostic Code 6260.
- Hearing loss can be objectively verified through audiograms and Compensation & Pension (C&P) exams.
Note: Starting in 2025, tinnitus may require a connection to an underlying condition like hearing loss or traumatic brain injury (TBI) for compensation. Secondary claims to tinnitus, such as migraines, anxiety, or insomnia, can help increase a veteran’s overall VA rating and compensation.
4. Musculoskeletal Conditions
Veterans often carry the long-term consequences of the physically demanding nature of military service. Military roles like infantry, mechanics, and loadmasters are particularly prone to long-term joint degradation. Even office-based personnel who underwent intense physical training or ruck marches can suffer long-term orthopedic effects.
That is why musculoskeletal conditions such as chronic back pain, knee injuries, joint injuries, and arthritis are easy claims for VA disability and are “guaranteed” when supported by in-service injury records and current medical evaluations. Ratings for musculoskeletal conditions depend on range of motion, pain levels, and functional impact.
Top physical conditions claimed by the veterans:
- Lumbosacral strain (back pain)
- Knee pain (limitation of flexion)
- Limitation of motion in the ankle or shoulder
- Herniated discs and degenerative joint disease
- Cervical spine disorders
Why These VA Disability Claims Have High Approval Rates:
- Heavy lifting, repeated movements, and trauma are routine in the service
- Service treatment records (STRs) often document physical injuries or consistent reports of pain
- Easy to verify with X-rays, MRIs, or orthopedic exams
Pro Tip: Even if your range of motion appears normal, you can receive a minimum compensable rating based on the VA Painful Motion Rule, a powerful provision that recognizes pain during movement.
The VA often underrates these conditions if functional loss and range of motion aren’t well documented. Veterans are encouraged to include VA or private treatment records showing the continuity or worsening of the condition, lay statements from fellow service members, and to be honest and thorough during the C&P exams.
5. Secondary Conditions
Secondary service-connected claims remain one of the most underutilized but powerful ways to receive VA disability benefits. These are VA disabilities that develop as a result of an existing service-connected condition. If proven, the VA considers them equally valid for compensation.
Examples of Secondary VA Claims:
- Sleep apnea secondary to PTSD or traumatic brain injury (TBI), or a deviated septum
- Depression secondary to chronic pain or tinnitus
- Radiculopathy secondary to back disorders
- Migraines secondary to head trauma or tinnitus
- GERD or IBS secondary to medication for pain or anxiety
Secondary claims often succeed because they rely on already-service-connected primary conditions as a foundation, and when backed with strong medical opinions, known as Nexus Letters, the VA is often likely to approve them or consider them.
Often overlooked, claiming secondary conditions can potentially increase a veteran’s overall VA disability rating. They are also one of the best strategies for reaching a 100% combined rating or TDIU benefits.
How to Strengthen Your VA Disability Claims With the Right Evidence
Even the most commonly guaranteed claim for VA compensation still requires strong documentation of evidence. The strength of your evidence can determine whether your claim is approved, delayed, underrated, or denied.
Here are some expert tips that can strengthen your case:
Start Early:
Submitting VA Form 21-0966 (Intent to File a Claim) as soon as possible locks in your effective date for back pay when applicable.
Provide Detailed Medical Documentation:
A successful VA claim starts with strong medical evidence. Ensure you have a formal diagnosis from a qualified provider, consistent treatment records, and any relevant test results (e.g., audiograms for hearing loss, mental health evaluations for PTSD). For presumptive conditions, document exposure history tied to service (e.g., burn pits, Agent Orange).
Include a Nexus Letter when applicable:
For secondary claims or less obvious service connections, a nexus letter from an independent medical professional can be pivotal. The expert opinion should clearly state that your current disability is “at least as likely as not” caused or aggravated by your service or another service-connected condition. While these reports are never required they can be beneficial in some cases. It is always best to follow up with an accredited legal professional if you are unsure if this is a good option for you.
Submit Lay Evidence:
Personal statements from spouses, friends, or fellow veterans can describe the daily impact of your condition. These are especially valuable for conditions like PTSD or tinnitus, where symptoms are often subjective.
Review Your C&P Exam Report:
After you have attended the Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam, request the examiner’s report. If it’s inaccurate or unfavorable, seek guidance from a legal professional to determine if obtaining a rebuttal opinion from an independent doctor.
Appeal if Denied:
Though over 30% of initial claims are denied, it is not the end. Veterans who file an appeal with the support of experienced professionals see significantly higher success rates. You can submit new evidence, have your case reviewed thoroughly, or request a hearing.
Apart from these steps, working with a VA-accredited attorney, veteran service organization (VSO), or claims agent may boost your chances of winning VA disability claims. These professionals understand the VA rating criteria, help you gather the right medical and service records, and represent you in appeals if necessary. Veterans who receive professional assistance often achieve faster decisions and higher disability ratings.
Final Thoughts
While no VA disability claim is technically “guaranteed,” veterans who submit well-prepared claims with the right evidence, clear diagnoses, and strong nexus statements often see higher rates of approval. Whether you are a newly discharged veteran or have been denied in the past, we encourage you to revisit your records, gather the right supporting documentation, and consider seeking professional guidance from accredited legal professionals. Take proactive steps to maximize your VA disability benefits and receive well-deserved compensation.
FAQs
What VA claims are considered guaranteed?
No VA disability claim is officially guaranteed, but those with strong evidence and clear service connection, especially presumptive conditions, are highly likely to be approved.
What conditions are the easiest VA disability claims to get approved?
Claims for tinnitus, PTSD, mental health disorders, and presumptive conditions like Agent Orange exposure or burn pit illnesses are among the easiest to get approved when properly documented.
What conditions automatically qualify you for VA disability?
Presumptive conditions such as those linked to Agent Orange, burn pits, Camp Lejeune water contamination, Gulf War service, and radiation exposure automatically qualify when veterans meet service and diagnosis criteria.
What is the most approved disability for VA?
Tinnitus is the most commonly approved VA disability, typically granted a 10% rating based on self-reported symptoms and military noise exposure.
Also read: 12 Signs Your VA Disability Claim May Get Approved: What to Look for
At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.
Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.
Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.
Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.
Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.
