If you’re a veteran exploring your benefits, you’ve probably come across the term VA disability rating — but what does it really mean, and why is it so important?
Your disability rating isn’t just a number. It’s the foundation of your benefits — affecting your monthly payments, your access to additional resources, and even healthcare eligibility. Let’s break it down in plain terms.
VA Disability Rating: A Quick Definition
A VA disability rating is a percentage assigned by the Department of Veterans Affairs based on how much a service-connected condition impacts your ability to function in daily life.
Ratings are awarded in 10% increments — from 0% (acknowledgement, but no compensation) to 100% (total disability).
The higher your rating, the more monthly compensation you receive — and the more benefits you may unlock.
How Ratings Are Determined
The VA evaluates medical evidence and your service records to determine whether a condition is:
- Service-connected (caused or worsened by military service)
- Diagnosed and documented
- Significantly impairing your quality of life or ability to work
Each condition is assigned a percentage based on how severe it is. For example:
- Hearing loss might receive a 10% rating
- PTSD may be rated 30%, 50%, 70%, or higher depending on symptoms
- Severe back injuries could be rated 20%–40% or more
💡 It’s not just what you have — it’s how much it affects your functionality.
Combined Ratings (Why It’s Not Just Simple Math)
If you have multiple service-connected conditions, you might assume your ratings add up:
30% + 20% = 50%, right?
Not with the VA.
The VA uses a “whole person” formula that calculates your rating based on how each new condition affects your remaining functionality. This often results in a combined rating that’s lower than expected — a 30% and a 20% condition might only result in a 44% combined rating, which rounds down to 40%.
To help with this, you can use the VA Disability Calculator — a free tool built by veterans to show how ratings stack and what you may qualify for.
What Your Rating Unlocks
Beyond monthly payments, your disability rating impacts:
- Healthcare access (some services require a 50%+ rating)
- Spouse and dependent benefits
- Housing and education programs
- Vocational rehabilitation
For example:
- A 10% rating gets you a basic monthly check (approx. $171/month in 2025)
- A 50% rating opens up broader healthcare and family support
- A 70%+ rating may qualify you for Individual Unemployability or expedited benefits
Even a small change in your rating can significantly increase your support.
Can You Challenge or Change Your Rating?
Absolutely. Many veterans:
- File for increases when conditions worsen
- Add new claims for newly diagnosed issues
- Appeal decisions if they believe the rating is too low
If you’re unsure about your current rating — or think it should be higher — Woobie can help. You can start with the VA Disability Benefits Guide to understand the process, or speak with a guide who’s walked this road before.
You Earned This — Now Let’s Make It Clear
Your rating is a reflection of your service and sacrifice. It’s not charity — it’s recognition. And understanding how it works puts you in a stronger position to make informed choices about your future.
Whether you’re starting fresh or considering an increase, clarity is the first step. Use the tools. Ask questions. And don’t be afraid to seek support.
Because the truth is: you’re not alone — and you’re not stuck.