FAQ — Mission Rated

Question 1

How does the VA calculate my combined disability rating?

Accepted Answer

The VA uses a "whole person" method — not simple addition. Starting from 100% (your whole body), each disability is applied to the remaining percentage. For example: a 50% rating leaves 50% remaining. A second 30% rating is 30% of that 50%, adding 15%. Combined: 65%, rounded to the nearest 10% = 70%. Mission Rated's calculator handles this math automatically.

Question 2

What is the difference between a combined rating and a scheduler rating?

Accepted Answer

Your "scheduler rating" is the combined percentage the VA calculates using the whole-person formula. Your "effective rating" is what that rounds to — the nearest 10%. So a 65% combined rating becomes a 70% effective rating. Your monthly compensation is based on the effective rating.

Question 3

Can I get a 100% rating even if my combined percentage is less than 100%?

Accepted Answer

Yes — through TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability). If your service-connected disabilities prevent you from maintaining substantially gainful employment, you may qualify for compensation at the 100% rate even if your combined rating is 60–70%. Mission Rated's Benefits Optimizer checks your TDIU eligibility automatically.

Question 4

What does "service-connected" mean?

Accepted Answer

A condition is service-connected when the VA determines it was caused or aggravated by your military service. You need a current diagnosis, evidence of an in-service event or injury, and a medical nexus (link) connecting the two. Mission Rated's Condition Library shows you exactly what evidence is required for each condition.

Question 5

What is a nexus letter and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A nexus letter is a written opinion from a medical professional stating that your condition is "at least as likely as not" related to your military service. It's one of the most powerful pieces of evidence you can submit. For many conditions — especially those not documented in service treatment records — a nexus letter is essential. Mission Rated provides guidance on obtaining one for each condition in the library.

Question 6

What is the best way to file a VA disability claim?

Accepted Answer

File online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. Before you file, gather your service treatment records, a current diagnosis, and any nexus letters. The stronger your evidence package at submission, the faster and more favorable your decision. Mission Rated's Evidence Builder helps you organize everything before you file.

Question 7

How long does it take the VA to process a claim?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary widely — typically 3 to 6 months for an initial claim, though complex claims can take longer. Supplemental claims and Higher-Level Reviews generally take 4–5 months. Board of Veterans' Appeals decisions can take 1–2 years. Mission Rated's Claim Tracker keeps you updated on your claim's status at every stage.

Question 8

What is a C&P exam and how should I prepare?

Accepted Answer

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is a VA-ordered medical evaluation to assess the severity of your claimed conditions. It's one of the most important parts of your claim. Be honest, describe your worst days, and don't minimize your symptoms. Mission Rated provides condition-specific C&P preparation checklists so you know exactly what to expect.

Question 9

Can I add new conditions to an existing claim?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can file a new claim for additional conditions at any time, or include them in a supplemental claim if you have new and relevant evidence. There's no limit to the number of conditions you can claim. Mission Rated helps you identify secondary conditions — disabilities caused or worsened by an already service-connected condition — which are often overlooked.

Question 10

What are secondary service-connected conditions?

Accepted Answer

Secondary conditions are disabilities that result from or are aggravated by a primary service-connected condition. For example, PTSD can cause sleep apnea; a service-connected knee injury can cause hip or back problems. Secondary conditions are fully ratable and can significantly increase your combined rating. Mission Rated's Condition Library flags common secondary connections for each condition.

Question 11

What are my options if my claim is denied?

Accepted Answer

Under the Appeals Modernization Act, you have three lanes: (1) Supplemental Claim — submit new and relevant evidence; (2) Higher-Level Review — request a senior claims adjudicator review for clear VA error; (3) Board of Veterans' Appeals — appeal directly to a Veterans Law Judge. Mission Rated's Appeals Navigator compares all three lanes and helps you choose the right path.

Question 12

What is "new and relevant evidence" for a Supplemental Claim?

Accepted Answer

"New" means evidence the VA didn't have when they made their decision. "Relevant" means it tends to prove or disprove something about your claim. A private medical opinion, a buddy statement, or new medical records all qualify. Mission Rated helps you identify what evidence is missing and how to obtain it.

Question 13

How long do I have to appeal a VA decision?

Accepted Answer

You have one year from the date of your decision letter to file a Supplemental Claim or Higher-Level Review. For a Board appeal, you also have one year. If you miss the deadline, you can still file a new claim or a Supplemental Claim with new evidence — but you may lose your effective date, which affects back pay. Mission Rated tracks your appeal deadlines automatically.

Question 14

Is Mission Rated free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Mission Rated is free to download and use. There are no subscriptions, no hidden fees, and no paywalls on core features. Our mission is to help every veteran access the benefits they've earned, and we believe cost should never be a barrier.

Question 15

Is Mission Rated affiliated with the VA?

Accepted Answer

No. Mission Rated is an independent app built by veterans and VA claims experts. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For official VA services, visit va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000.

Question 16

Is my personal information secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mission Rated uses industry-standard encryption for all data in transit and at rest. We do not sell your personal information to third parties. You can review our full Privacy Policy for details on how your data is collected, used, and protected.

Question 17

Can Mission Rated guarantee a specific rating outcome?

Accepted Answer

No. Mission Rated provides tools, information, and guidance to help you build the strongest possible claim — but we cannot guarantee any specific rating decision. The VA makes all final determinations. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible evidence and understanding of the process.

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