For veterans across Texas—from El Paso to Houston, Dallas to San Antonio—VA disability benefits can be a lifeline. But if you’re receiving compensation for a service-connected condition, you may wonder: Can the VA reduce my rating? The answer lies in a few key regulations: the 5-year, 10-year, and 20-year rules.
These rules are designed to protect veterans’ rights and add stability to the benefits they’ve earned. Let’s break them down in plain English, with examples relevant to the VA disability process in Texas.
The 5-Year Rule: Stability After Five Years
The VA’s 5-year rule kicks in when a service-connected condition has held the same rating for five straight years. In Texas, this often applies to veterans who’ve been treated consistently through VA clinics like the Dallas VA Medical Center or the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston.
Under this rule, the VA can’t reduce your rating unless the entire medical record shows sustained improvement—not just one exam.
Example:
Let’s say Juan, a Marine Corps veteran in San Antonio, was rated 30% for PTSD in 2019. He’s been consistent with his treatment at the Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital. In 2024, Juan applies for an increase, but during a C&P exam, the examiner notes he’s improving. Despite that, his ongoing records show continued symptoms and medication adjustments. Because the evidence doesn’t show lasting improvement across the board, the VA can’t lawfully reduce Juan’s rating under the 5-year rule.
This rule helps Texas veterans like Juan by shielding their benefits from one-off judgments and providing peace of mind.
The 10-Year Rule: Protection from Losing Service Connection
Under the 10-year rule, the VA cannot sever service connection for a condition that’s been in place for ten years—unless it proves the original grant was fraudulent.
Example:
Emily, an Army veteran in Fort Worth, was awarded service connection for both feet in 2011. Years later, the VA realizes the right foot was mistakenly included. But since Emily didn’t commit fraud and has been service-connected for over 10 years, the VA can’t revoke service connection for that foot.
This rule is especially critical for Texas veterans who’ve moved or changed VA care centers over time. Your service connection travels with you, and after 10 years, it’s largely locked in.
The 20-Year Rule: Locking in Your Rating
The 20-year rule gives long-term protection to veterans who’ve had the same rating—or higher—for two decades. After 20 years, the VA can’t reduce your rating below that level unless there’s proof of fraud.
Example:
Sarah, a Navy veteran living in Austin, received a 30% rating for a knee injury in 2005. Despite physical therapy at the Central Texas VA system, her knee didn’t improve enough for a rating change. Now it’s 2025, and her 30% rating is locked in. Even if her range of motion improves slightly, the VA can’t reduce her rating to 20%—her benefits are protected under the 20-year rule.
This safeguard matters for Texas veterans who depend on stable compensation as they age or face increasing health needs.
What VA Ratings Are Exempt from Re-Examinations?
If you’ve been designated as permanently and totally disabled, the VA generally won’t schedule future exams. These ratings—common among older Texas veterans and those with multiple service-connected disabilities—mean your condition isn’t expected to improve. That designation gives you lasting stability and helps with planning for long-term financial and healthcare needs.
Local VA Care and Benefits Support in Texas
Whether you live near the Waco VA Regional Office, the Amarillo VA Healthcare System, or the South Texas Veterans Health Care System, knowing your rights can prevent wrongful rating reductions. Many Texas veterans are unaware of these rules until their rating is challenged. Don’t wait until you receive a notice in the mail—understand your protections now.
Chad Barr Law Can Help Texas Veterans
At Chad Barr Law, we help veterans throughout Texas appeal VA rating reductions and understand their rights. Whether you’re stationed at Fort Bliss, a retiree in Killeen, or a Navy veteran on the Gulf Coast, our team understands the unique challenges Texas veterans face when dealing with the VA.
If your rating was reduced or you’re unsure whether the VA followed these rules, call us today at 888-2-VETLAW or fill out our free case evaluation form. Our VA-accredited attorneys will guide you through your appeal with confidence, compassion, and a strong understanding of your legal protections.
