Overview of the VA benefits

To verify if you’re eligible for VA benefits, you need to understand the basics of how the VA rates a disability. The VA uses a rating system that gives different values to different disabilities based on their severity and impact on workability.

Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of at least 50% or higher are eligible for VA disability benefits. Those veterans who have service-connected disabilities rated 60% or higher also qualify for additional monetary compensation under the Individual Unemployability program, sometimes referred to as Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU). 

Additionally, the spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents of qualifying veterans may also be entitled to receive certain types of disability compensation from the VA.

Other Benefits With 50 VA Disability or more

If your service-connected disability is at a rating of 50%, then you will receive a certain amount per month from the VA.

At a 50% service-connected disability rating, you are entitled to additional compensation from the VA and other benefits, including:

• An increase in your clothing allowance
• An increase in your aid and attendance/housebound allowance (when applicable)
• Additional dependents allowances for spouses, children, and parents (when applicable)

Are there any disadvantages?

While many veterans enjoy the benefits of a 50% or higher VA disability rating, there are some disadvantages you should know.

• You may have to regularly visit a VA hospital or clinic to retain your benefits. This can be inconvenient, particularly if you live far from the nearest facility.
• To keep receiving benefits, you will have to prove that your condition has not improved over time and that you still need treatment.
• If your disability rating is 70% or higher, you may be required to participate in vocational rehabilitation programs to earn back the skills lost due to injury. While this is beneficial for some veterans and can help them find new jobs after leaving service, it’s stressful for those who simply want their peace and quiet after leaving active duty.
• You will still be required to pay copayments for medical care at VA hospitals or clinics following a 20% VA disability rating increase.

Increase Your VA Disability Rating

Your VA disability rating is important—it determines the benefits you get for your service. When you’re looking for a new rating or want to upgrade your current one, you deserve an advocate who can help you get what you need.

That’s where Veteran Ratings can help. They have the experience and resources to help you get the ratings and benefits you deserve. They’re experts at getting veterans the rating they deserve, and we have helped hundreds of veterans increase their VA Disability Rating.

Get in touch with them today to learn more!