Different Types of 100% VA Disability Ratings

If you’re applying for or already receiving veterans disability benefits, you likely know that a 100% disability rating offers the most comprehensive benefits. A veteran with a 100% disability rating receives full monthly disability pay (in 2023, $3,621.95/month for the veteran alone, and more with qualifying dependents). In addition, veterans with a 100% disability rating are entitled to broader non-monetary benefits, including no-cost medical care, a travel allowance for medical treatment, the right to concurrently receive VA disability benefits and military retired pay (if eligible for both), and healthcare and educational benefits for dependents. 

What you may not know is that there are multiple ways to qualify for 100% disability benefits–some even if your numerical rating is lower. 

How to Qualify for a 100% VA Disability Rating

The first and best-known way to receive full veterans disability benefits is to be rated 100% disabled. This may mean being assigned a 100% disability rating for a single service-connected disability or reaching 100% disability through a combination of two or more service-connected conditions. You may hear this described as a 100% schedular rating. 

Unlike Social Security disability and most other types of disability benefits, veterans disability benefits may be available even if you are working–no matter how much money you earn. That’s because the disability rating is based on your limitations, not specifically on your ability or inability to engage in substantial gainful activity. 

TDIU Benefits – Another Route to Benefits at the 100% Level

If the VA finds that a veteran is unemployable due to service-connected disabilities, they may be deemed individually unemployable. In that case, the veteran may be entitled to VA disability benefits at the 100% level if either: 

• They have a disability rating of at least 60% for a single condition, or
• They have a disability rating of at least 70% based on combined conditions, with at least one condition rated at 40% or higher

Since this status is granted only to those who the VA has determined are unable to work due to their service-connected conditions, 

Permanent and Total Disability (P&T)

A 100% VA disability rating is generally subject to change. The veteran will receive full benefits, but the VA may reassess their condition and adjust their rating if they have improved. However, when a veteran is deemed totally and permanently disabled, that 100% rating is locked in and can not be reduced. Certain conditions, such as loss of sight in both eyes or loss of the use of both hands or both feet constitute total permanent disability under the regulations. Others are assessed based on the likelihood of improvement. 

Talk to a VA Disability Benefits Advocate

The path to the maximum veterans disability benefits you deserve is complicated, and your success may depend on how clear and thorough your claim is. At Veterans Help Group, we’ve helped thousands of disabled veterans apply for benefits and/or appeal denials or disability ratings.

We know what type of evidence the VA is looking for to establish a claim, and can help you submit the most effective claim or appeal possible. To learn more, call 855-855-8992 or click here to contact us for a free consultation.