02/09/2026
If you have a 100% VA rating for cancer, you might be wondering: Why isn't this rating Permanent and Total (P&T)? In this video, Attorney Case Walker will dive into the regulations that govern VA cancer claims and explain the "Mandatory VA Examination" that occurs six months after your treatment ends.
He will also cover your options. Cancer has a profound impact on veterans even after treatment ends. Attorney Walker will go over the residual conditions that could be contributable to your cancer and how to file for those conditions. Another option could be filing for Individual Unemployability if your ability to work remains impacted.
If you’re facing a proposed reduction, don't panic—take action! Like this video to help other veterans find this info, and Subscribe for more deep dives into VA law. If you've successfully claimed a residual condition, share your experience in the Comments below!
Common Cancer Residuals to Claims:
Incontinence & Bowel Issues
Erectile Dysfunction / Infertility
Nerve Damage & Neuropathy
Respiratory & Organ Dysfunction
Mental Health (Anxiety/Depression)
Chronic Fatigue & Scarring
Evidence Checklist: To protect your rating, you must "document, document, document." We recommend:
Symptoms Logs (Track the daily impact)
Buddy Statements (Lay evidence from friends/family)
Medical Records & Private DBQs
Sworn Statements
Essential Resources:
38 CFR Part 4: https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/38/part-4/subpart-B
Check Leukemia Rating Criteria (DC 7703): https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/38/4.117
Intent to File (ITF) VA Form 21-0966: https://www.va.gov/forms/21-0966/
VA Form 21P-526EZ: https://www.va.gov/forms/21-526ez/
Individual Unemployability Application VA Form 21-8940: https://www.va.gov/forms/21-8940/
Printable Symptom Logs: https://vadisabilitygroup.com/symptom-logs/
Timestamps:
00:00 Start
00:09 Why VA Cancer Ratings Can't be P&T
01:29 38 CFR Part 4
02:52 Leukemia Diagnostic Code
03:15 Once Cancer is in Remission, Documenting Residual Conditions is Key
05:27 What to Do When the Proposes to Reduce Your Rating
06:51 Types of Documentation Needed to Support Your Claim
07:48 Submitting an Intent to File
08:57 File New Claims and Residual Conditions
10:20 File for Individual Unemployability
12:09 Plan Ahead for a Reduction