Anyone know how to get a higher disability rating from the Air Force?

Military Law Discussions
1

Hey, so I’ve been looking online and saw some docs about how to increase my chapter 31 military disability retirement. I’m at 30% now, but I want to know if there’s a way to get a higher rating. Any ideas on how to go about it or what info I can use to push for an increase?

2

Hey, I’m not an expert, but you might want to look into getting your medical records together, especially anything about your oxygen treatments before you were discharged. That could really help your case.

3

@Logan
Good point! Do you know if they’ll consider the VA rating too? I’m at 100% permanent and total from the VA, so would that help my case?

4

Tan said:
@Logan
Good point! Do you know if they’ll consider the VA rating too? I’m at 100% permanent and total from the VA, so would that help my case?

Yeah, it definitely helps! The VA rating is separate, but if it shows you were dealing with serious stuff right after discharge, it can strengthen your claim with the Air Force. Definitely mention it in your appeal.

5

Have you tried asking for a reconsideration with the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records? They review stuff like this and could change your rating based on new evidence.

6

Scofield said:
Have you tried asking for a reconsideration with the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records? They review stuff like this and could change your rating based on new evidence.

I haven’t yet. I was just going to start. Do I need to submit everything again, like all my medical records and stuff?

7

@Lilly
Yes, exactly. You’ll want to provide everything you have, especially the stuff showing your condition before discharge. The more thorough, the better.

8

You should definitely bring up your outpatient oxygen treatment. The VA made you 100% service-connected for it, so the Air Force can’t really ignore that. Maybe they’ll reconsider your rating based on that alone.

9

@Micah
Yeah, that’s what I’m hoping! It’s tough when you’re at 30% and know your condition was worse right after discharge.

10

Tan said:
@Micah
Yeah, that’s what I’m hoping! It’s tough when you’re at 30% and know your condition was worse right after discharge.

Definitely frustrating. But if you’ve got solid proof from the VA, they should take that seriously. Keep pushing!

11

Don’t forget to get some legal advice on this too. A military lawyer might be able to help with the appeal process and make sure you’re submitting everything correctly.

12

Kingsley said:
Don’t forget to get some legal advice on this too. A military lawyer might be able to help with the appeal process and make sure you’re submitting everything correctly.

I haven’t talked to anyone about it yet. Do you think I need a lawyer for this?

13

@Lilly
It might be worth it. Especially if you’re serious about getting an increase. A lawyer could help you navigate the process and make sure your paperwork is on point.

14

Make sure to mention the VA court of appeals decision from 2012. It says your 100% service connection goes back to the day you got out. That could be really useful to support your case.

15

Darian said:
Make sure to mention the VA court of appeals decision from 2012. It says your 100% service connection goes back to the day you got out. That could be really useful to support your case.

That’s a good idea. I totally forgot about that! Thanks for reminding me!

16

@Lilly
No problem! That’s a key piece of evidence, so definitely include it in your appeal. It could make a big difference.