Got a decision letter? Let's make sense of it.
A VA decision letter is dense and easy to misread — and if you were denied, the path you choose next decides whether it gets fixed. We break down what it says and explain your options. We don't decide for you; we get you ready to talk to an accredited VSO.
What was granted, denied, deferred — and why.
Upload your letter and get a plain-English read of every condition, plus what could address each denial. Nothing is stored beyond your session.
Upload your VA decision letter
We'll break down what was granted, denied, and deferred — and what each path forward means. Your SSN is redacted on upload.
The VA rarely volunteers these. Worth understanding.
These are explained here so you know they exist and can raise them with your VSO. We're describing the programs — not telling you that you qualify.
Pays at the 100% rate even without a 100% schedular rating, if service-connected conditions prevent you from maintaining substantially gainful employment.
Generally discussed when: Often discussed when you have one condition at 60%+, or a combined 70%+ with one at 40%+ — and your conditions keep you from working.
Additional pay above the normal rates for specific severe situations — loss of use of a limb, being housebound, needing aid and attendance, or certain combinations of conditions.
Generally discussed when: Tied to specific statutory situations (SMC-K, S, L through R). Frequently missed even by the VA.
If you're rated 30% or higher, you can add a spouse, children, or dependent parents for additional monthly pay — but the VA doesn't add them automatically.
Generally discussed when: File VA Form 21-686c. Can add hundreds per month.
Education, training, and employment support for veterans with a service-connected disability that affects their ability to work.
Generally discussed when: Generally a 10%+ rating plus an employment handicap.
Whether any of these apply to you depends on your specific situation and evidence. Bring the ones that sound relevant to a free accredited VSO — that's exactly the kind of question they're there to answer.
Ready to act on your decision?
Whether it's a supplemental claim, a review, or a brand-new condition, the tool helps you prepare — and routes you to free accredited help to file.