If you’re a veteran struggling with anxiety or depression, you might be eligible for disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Filing a VA claim for anxiety and depression can feel like a maze, but it’s a path many veterans take to get the support they deserve.
This guide will walk you through the process, answer common questions, and provide actionable steps to maximize your claim’s success.
Let’s break it down so you can move forward with confidence.
In this Article
Eligibility for a VA Claim for Anxiety and Depression
To receive disability benefits for anxiety or depression, you must satisfy three core requirements:
- A Current Diagnosis: A licensed clinician must diagnose anxiety, depression, or a related disorder such as major depressive disorder (MDD).
- Service Connection: Evidence must show the condition is linked to military service—e.g., combat exposure, traumatic events, or chronic operational stress.
- Nexus Letter: A medical opinion that explicitly connects the condition to your service strengthens your case.
Unsure of your eligibility? See the VA’s
disability compensation page
for a concise overview.
Common Service-Connected Causes
- Combat exposure or witnessing traumatic events.
- Military sexual trauma (MST).
- Prolonged stress from deployments or high-pressure roles (may support a stress-related rating).
- Physical injuries that lead to secondary mental health issues.
If you need help documenting these factors, consult a VA-accredited representative or mental health professional.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your VA Claim
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Collect robust evidence before filing:
- Medical Records: Diagnoses, treatment notes, therapy summaries (VA or private).
- Service Records: DD-214, deployment logs, or incident reports.
- Nexus Letter: Physician statement linking condition to service.
- Personal Statements: Detailed accounts of how symptoms affect your life.
Step 2: Choose Your Filing Method
Online: File through
eBenefits
or VA.gov for fastest processing.
Mail: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ to your regional VA office.
In-Person: Work with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) at a local VA facility.
Step 3: Submit Your Claim
Verify every section is complete—errors can delay a decision. The VA may request additional information or schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam.
Step 4: Attend the C&P Exam
A VA-appointed clinician will evaluate your condition’s severity. Be candid about all symptoms and bring supporting records.
Step 5: Await the VA’s Decision
After review, the VA assigns a rating and notifies you. Denied? You have appeal rights (see below).
For a detailed walkthrough, visit the VA’s
“how to file a claim” page
.
VA Disability Ratings for Anxiety and Depression
The VA’s General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders applies to anxiety, depression, and MDD. Ratings are based on symptom frequency and effect on daily living.
| Rating | Typical Symptoms |
|---|---|
| 0 % | Mild symptoms; no significant functional impact. |
| 10 % | Mild symptoms with occasional work-efficiency decline. |
| 30 % | Periodic severe symptoms affecting work and relationships. |
| 50 % | Frequent symptoms causing reduced reliability and productivity. |
| 70 % | Severe symptoms impacting most life areas. |
| 100 % | Total occupational and social impairment. |
Consult the full rating schedule in 38 CFR § 4 by visiting the
VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities
.
Monthly Compensation Rates (2025)
| Disability Rating | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| 10 % | $171.23 |
| 30 % | $524.31 |
| 50 % | $1,075.16 |
| 70 % | $1,716.28 |
| 100 % | $3,737.85 |
Veterans with dependents receive higher payments. See the VA’s
compensation rate tables
for current figures.
Tips for a Successful VA Claim
- Be Thorough: Include every relevant medical and service record.
- Work with a VSO: A VSO can check your claim for errors; find one via the VA’s VSO directory.
- Be Honest in the C&P Exam: Describe the full impact of your symptoms.
- Document Everything: Keep a journal of symptom flare-ups and daily limitations.
- Consider Secondary Conditions: Issues like insomnia or chronic pain may qualify as secondary claims.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Lack of Service Connection Evidence
Secure a strong nexus letter or gather “buddy statements” from fellow service members who witnessed the precipitating events.
Denied Claims
If denied, pursue one of three appeal options:
- Higher-Level Review
- Supplemental Claim
- Board Appeal
Learn more on the VA’s
decision-review (appeals) page
.
Delayed Processing
- Track your claim status on VA.gov.
- Respond quickly to VA requests.
- Stay in contact with your VSO if delays persist.
FAQs About VA Claims for Anxiety and Depression
1. Can I file for both anxiety and depression?
Yes. They are often rated together under the General Rating Formula, but supply evidence for each diagnosis.
2. How long does processing take?
Average timelines are 3–6 months; online filing is typically quicker.
3. What if I lack a formal diagnosis?
Obtain an evaluation at a VA medical center or with a private provider; the VA offers free mental-health screenings.
4. Can I claim if symptoms surfaced post-service?
Yes, provided you establish service connection (often through a nexus letter).
5. What’s a nexus letter?
A doctor’s opinion stating your condition is “at least as likely as not” caused by military service.
6. Do I need combat experience to qualify?
No. Non-combat stressors such as MST or chronic operational stress can also qualify.
7. What if my claim is denied?
Appeal via Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board Appeal.
8. Can anxiety or depression receive a 100 % rating?
Yes, if symptoms cause total occupational and social impairment.
9. Do I need an attorney?
Not required, but a VA-accredited attorney or VSO can assist—many provide free consultations.
10. Can secondary conditions raise my rating?
Yes. Disorders such as insomnia or migraines that stem from anxiety or depression may increase your combined rating.
11. How is major depressive disorder rated?
MDD follows the same 0 %–100 % scale; severe, disabling cases can merit a 100 % rating.
Next Steps: Taking Action on Your VA Claim
Filing for VA disability compensation is a concrete step toward the support you’ve earned. Start by collecting your records, consulting a VSO, and submitting your claim via VA.gov for the fastest handling. If the process feels overwhelming, remember that thousands of veterans have successfully navigated it. Take one step at a time, reach out for assistance when needed, and keep advocating for your mental health.