What each rating level can unlock, from 0% to 100%

The situation

The monthly check is only part of what a rating means. Certain levels open doors to health care, hiring help, family benefits and more. These are the main thresholds; confirm each on VA.gov because some have extra conditions.

0% service-connected

• Establishes service connection, so a later worsening is an increase claim, not a new fight over the link.
• VA health care eligibility can follow service connection; priority group depends on your situation.
• Some protections and state benefits key off service connection itself.

10% and up

• VA home loan funding fee is waived for Veterans receiving compensation (VA.gov funding fee). See home loans and your rating.
• Compensable rating: 10-point federal hiring preference.
• VR&E can start at 10% with a serious employment handicap (20% is the usual threshold).

30% and 50%

• 30%: dependent add-ons begin; 30%+ also opens a special federal noncompetitive appointment authority.
• 50%: VA health care Priority Group 1 (priority groups), which generally means no copays.

70%

• Caregiver program (PCAFC): combined 70% or a single 70% condition, plus need for in-person personal care (VA.gov PCAFC).
• Long-term care and nursing home priority considerations at higher ratings.

100% permanent and total

• CHAMPVA for eligible family members.
• DEA (Chapter 35) education for spouse and children.
• Many state benefits: property tax relief, license plates, park passes. Rules vary by state.
• Commissary and exchange privileges.

Plan, don't chase numbers

File for what is real and documented. A higher rating needs evidence of real impairment. Use the calculator to see where you stand.

Related

Calculator · Va home loan rating · Federal jobs veterans preference

Get free help

You never have to pay to file an initial VA claim. Free help: a VSO such as DAV, VFW or the American Legion, or a VA-accredited representative.