How to Submit a Public Comment on the VA Medication Rating Rule
Comment Deadline: April 20, 2026
You have 60 days from February 19, 2026 to submit your public comment on RIN 2900-AS49
On February 17, 2026, the VA published an interim final rule that fundamentally changes how disability ratings work. Even though VA Secretary Doug Collins announced it won't be enforced, the VA is still legally required to collect public comments before making the rule final.
This is your chance to make your voice heard. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, a VSO, or anyone who cares about fair treatment for veterans, your comment matters.
Here's exactly how to do it.
What You're Commenting On
The rule (RIN 2900-AS49) says the VA should rate disabilities based on how well you function with medication, not how severe your condition would be without it. In plain English: if your meds work, your rating could be lower—even if you'd be non-functional without those meds.
The rule also says "under ordinary daily living conditions" means taking prescribed medication. So skipping your meds isn't an option in the VA's eyes.
Why this matters: This could reduce ratings for millions of veterans with mental health conditions, chronic pain, diabetes, heart conditions, and more. It shifts the focus from the severity of your service-connected disability to how well you manage it with treatment.
For full context, read our complete analysis of the medication rating rule.
Step-by-Step: How to Submit Your Comment
1 Go to Regulations.gov
Navigate to www.regulations.gov
This is the official federal government portal for public comments on proposed rules.
2 Search for the Docket Number
In the search bar, enter: RIN 2900-AS49
Alternatively, search for "VA disability ratings medication" and look for the rule titled something like "Ratings Based on Functioning Under Ordinary Conditions"
3 Click "Comment"
Once you're on the rule's page, look for the blue "Comment" button in the top-right corner.
You may be asked to create a free account or submit anonymously. Either works.
4 Write Your Comment
This is where you tell the VA what you think. You can write as much or as little as you want, but quality matters more than quantity.
See below for tips on writing an effective comment.
5 Attach Documents (Optional)
If you have supporting materials—medical records, personal statements, research articles—you can upload them here.
Do NOT upload anything with your Social Security Number, VA file number, or other personally identifiable information. Public comments are publicly viewable.
6 Review and Submit
Double-check your comment for typos and clarity. Once you hit submit, it's public and permanent.
You should receive a confirmation email with a tracking number.
Tips for Writing an Effective Comment
Your comment doesn't need to be long or legal. It just needs to be honest and clear. Here's what works:
1. Be Specific
Don't just say "this rule is bad." Explain why it's bad and who it hurts.
- Good: "I'm rated 70% for PTSD. My medication keeps me stable, but without it, I can't work, sleep, or function. This rule would punish me for successfully managing my service-connected disability."
- Not as effective: "This rule sucks and the VA is screwing veterans again."
2. Use Your Own Words
Form letters and copy-paste templates get lumped together. Personal stories carry weight.
If you're a veteran: talk about your experience. If you're a family member: explain how this rule would affect your loved one. If you're a VSO or advocate: share what you're seeing on the ground.
3. Cite the Rule's Own Language
If you've read the rule (it's published in the Federal Register), quote specific sections you disagree with.
Example: "The rule states that 'ordinary daily living conditions' include taking prescribed medication. This ignores the side effects, access issues, and trial-and-error process veterans face with treatment."
4. Suggest Alternatives
If you think there's a better way, say so.
Example: "Instead of reducing ratings based on medication effectiveness, the VA should rate based on the underlying severity of the service-connected condition, as originally intended by Congress."
5. Stay Professional
You can be angry—hell, you should be angry—but keep it constructive. Decision-makers are more likely to listen to reasoned arguments than rants.
Example Comment
"I am a Marine Corps veteran with a 70% rating for major depressive disorder secondary to combat-related PTSD. I take three medications daily to manage my symptoms. Without them, I would be unable to work, maintain relationships, or function in society.
This rule punishes veterans for successfully treating their service-connected disabilities. My depression is just as severe as it was when I was first diagnosed—I've just found medications that help me cope. Under this rule, my rating could be reduced simply because my treatment works, even though I will need these medications for the rest of my life.
The VA should rate disabilities based on their underlying severity, not on how well a veteran can mask symptoms with medication. This rule contradicts the intent of the disability compensation system and harms the veterans it's supposed to serve.
I urge the VA to withdraw this rule entirely."
What Happens Next?
After the April 20, 2026 deadline, the VA will review all public comments. By law, they must read and consider every single one.
They'll publish a final rule that addresses major themes from the comments. If enough veterans, VSOs, and advocates push back, the VA could:
- Withdraw the rule entirely (best case)
- Modify it significantly based on feedback
- Keep it as-is but explain why they disagree with commenters (worst case)
VA Secretary Doug Collins has already said it won't be enforced, but submitting comments ensures that promise is locked in—and that future administrations can't quietly reverse course.
Why Your Comment Matters
Public comments aren't just symbolic. They create a legal record. If the VA ignores widespread opposition, that strengthens potential lawsuits challenging the rule.
Major veteran organizations—VFW, DAV, American Legion, IAVA, and others—are all mobilizing members to comment. The more veterans speak up, the harder it is for the VA to ignore the backlash.
Your voice is not just heard. It's counted.
Additional Resources
Still have questions about the rule or your ratings? Check out these resources:
- Full breakdown of the VA medication rating rule
- Search all 720+ VA diagnostic codes to understand how you're rated
- Use our combined rating calculator to see your total disability percentage
- Talk to our AI claims coach for personalized guidance (free, no login required)
One Last Thing
Don't wait until April 19th. Submit your comment today. It takes 10 minutes and could protect your benefits for life.
Deadline: April 20, 2026
Docket: RIN 2900-AS49
Where: www.regulations.gov
Semper Fi. Stay loud.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult official VA resources, your healthcare provider, and an accredited Veterans Service Officer for guidance specific to your situation.