What is a Claim for Increase?

A claim for increase refers specifically to a request made by a veteran to reassess their current disability evaluation because their medical condition has deteriorated or worsened. The underlying intent is to reflect the increased severity of their condition, which may be impacting their level of functioning or quality of life.

In the context of this process, veterans have the right to revisit their previous assessments; hence, a claim for increase serves the purpose of seeking more benefits based on the current reality of their health status. This claim is generally accompanied by new medical evidence or documentation that substantiates the changes in the veteran’s condition compared to prior evaluations.

The other choices do not align with the definition of a claim for increase. A claim for decrease, for instance, pertains to situations where a veteran might believe that their condition has improved and therefore warrant a reduction in benefits. A claim that cancels previous benefits isn't relevant here as it does not pertain to changes in health status but rather to the termination of benefits altogether. Lastly, a new claim for a separate condition describes a situation where a veteran is seeking benefits for a different health issue rather than an adjustment to an already recognized condition rating.