If you were injured or became seriously ill while serving in the military, you may be eligible for certain veterans benefits, including VA disability compensation, which is a benefit paid to certain military veterans based on illnesses or injuries received while serving on active duty. Certain veterans may also be eligible for VA health care benefits.
There are many factors which go into determining compensation eligibility and levels, most of which are outside the scope of this article. Treat this article as a primer for VA disability benefits as we show you the VA’s definition of a service-connected disability, where to apply for benefits, and the current VA disability compensation rate tables, as provided by the VA.
Find the updated VA Disability Compensation Benefits Pay Rates
What is a Service Connected Disability?
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Disability Compensation is:
a benefit paid to a veteran because of injuries or diseases that happened while on active duty, or were made worse by active military service. It is also paid to certain veterans disabled from VA health care. The benefits are tax-free. Source.
If you are considered to have a service-connected disability, then you may be eligible to receive a monthly compensation payment, and under certain circumstances, you may be eligible to receive additional compensation, usually if you have a service-connected rating of 30% or higher and have dependents (spouse, children, and/or parents under your care), if you have missing limbs, or if you have a severely disabled spouse.
Applying for VA Compensation Benefits
Detailed instructions for applying for VA disability benefits are outside the scope of this article, but in general, it is best to supply as much supporting information as possible, including how the injury or illness occurred, any medical treatment you received, current health status, and how your life has been affected by the injury or illness. You will need to fill out VA Form 21-526, Veterans Application for Compensation and/or Pension or apply online using VONAPP. Also be sure to have a copy of your DD Form 214.
A Change in Your Family Status Can Change Your VA Disability Payment
Remember to contact the VA whenever you have a change in family status as your rates may change as well. If you have a 30% disability rating or higher and you are also supporting qualified dependents such as a spouse, child, or parent, you may be eligible to receive a higher VA disability payment. If your disability rating is 20% or lower, changes in your family status should not affect your VA disability payment rates.
The VA will not know when there is a change in your family status, so you will need to inform them immediately when something changes – such as a birth, wedding, a parent moving in with you, divorce, child coming of age, or the death of a qualified dependent. It is always best to inform the VA of a change as soon as possible, however, in some cases you won’t be able to do so until you have more information (such as when a child is born, as you can’t do anything with the VA until your child has received his or her Social Security Number). Keep in mind that the VA will sometimes backdate payments to make up for any shortfalls, or in the case of the loss of an eligible dependent, your payment may decrease. Be sure to contact the VA disability center for more information.
Receive your disability check faster. When you file your disability claim, be sure to give the VA the routing number to your bank so you can enroll in direct deposits. This is faster and more secure – and a requirement as of March 1, 2013. I recommend using a high yield savings account so you can earn more money on any interest that your money earns.
Current VA Disability Compensation Pay Rates
The 2013 VA Disability rates went up on December 1, 2012. If you receive disability payments from the VA, you likely saw a small raise in your monthly check. You can view the current VA Disability rates here, but for your convenience, we have included them in this article as well.
VA Disability Rating: 10% – 20% (No Dependents)
| Percentage | Rate |
|---|---|
| 10% | $129 |
| 20% | $255 |
VA Disability Rating: 30% – 60% Without Children
| Dependent Status | 30% | 40% | 50% | 60% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veteran Alone | $395 | $569 | $810 | $1026 |
| Veteran with Spouse Only | $442 | $631 | $888 | $1120 |
| Veteran with Spouse & One Parent | $479 | $681 | $951 | $1195 |
| Veteran with Spouse and Two Parents | $516 | $731 | $1014 | $1270 |
| Veteran with One Parent | $432 | $619 | $873 | $1101 |
| Veteran with Two Parents | $469 | $669 | $936 | $1176 |
| Additional for A/A spouse (see footnote b) | $43 | $58 | $72 | $86 |
VA Disability Rating: 70% – 100% Without Children
| Dependent Status | 70% | 80% | 90% | 100% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veteran Alone | $1,293 | $1,503 | $1,689 | $2,816 |
| Veteran with Spouse Only | $1,402 | $1,628 | $1,830 | $2,973 |
| Veteran with Spouse & One Parent | $1,490 | $1,728 | $1,943 | $3,099 |
| Veteran with Spouse and Two Parents | $1,578 | $1,828 | $2,056 | $3,225 |
| Veteran with One Parent | $1,381 | $1,603 | $1,802 | $2,942 |
| Veteran with Two Parents | $1,469 | $1,703 | $1,915 | $3,068 |
| Additional for A/A spouse (see footnote b) | $101 | $115 | $129 | $144 |
VA Disability Rating: 30% – 60% With Children
| Dependent Status | 30% | 40% | 50% | 60% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veteran with Spouse & Child | $476 | $677 | $946 | $1,189 |
| Veteran with Child Only | $426 | $611 | $862 | $1,089 |
| Veteran with Spouse, One Parent and Child | $513 | $727 | $1,009 | $1,264 |
| Veteran with Spouse, Two Parents and Child | $550 | $777 | $1,072 | $1,339 |
| Veteran with One Parent and Child | $463 | $661 | $925 | $1,164 |
| Veteran with Two Parents and Child | $500 | $711 | $988 | $1,239 |
| Add for Each Additional Child Under Age 18 | $23 | $31 | $39 | $46 |
| Each Additional Schoolchild Over Age 18 (see footnote a) | $75 | $100 | $126 | $151 |
| Additional for A/A spouse (see footnote b) | $43 | $58 | $72 | $86 |
VA Disability Rating: 70% – 100% With Children
| Dependent Status | 70% | 80% | 90% | 100% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veteran with Spouse & Child | $1,483 | $1,720 | $1,933 | $3,088 |
| Veteran with Child Only | $1,366 | $1,587 | $1,783 | $2,921 |
| Veteran with Spouse, One Parent and Child | $1,571 | $1,820 | $2,046 | $3,214 |
| Veteran with Spouse, Two Parents and Child | $1,659 | $1,920 | $2,159 | $3,340 |
| Veteran with One Parent and Child | $1,454 | $1,687 | $1,896 | $3,047 |
| Veteran with Two Parents and Child | $1,542 | $1,787 | $2,009 | $3,173 |
| Add for Each Additional Child Under Age 18 | $54 | $62 | $70 | $78 |
| Each Additional Schoolchild Over Age 18 (see footnote a) | $176 | $201 | $226 | $252 |
| Additional for A/A spouse (see footnote b) | $101 | $115 | $129 | $144 |
If you have specific VA benefits related questions, it is always best to call or visit your regional VA medical center, as they will be able to access your file and answer your specific questions.
Comments
I receive my VA compensation check as Veteran alone. I am a Veteran with spouse only. How can I get that changed. We are celebrating our 38th wedding anniversary. I don’t know how this oversite happened, but would you please correct this for me.
Thank You Wayne.
You have to be 30% or higher to get the dependents benefit.
I have another post below that includes the math for your % rating.
If you have dependents and provided all the information on your initial claim, it would make sense that they would adjudicate that information with your claim, right?
The VA knows that if you did not submit a separate dependency claim, that nobody bothered to tell you about, it would prolong and I imagine in some cases, where the person is not paying attention, eliminate the extra payment to your compensation completely.
If you do not file all forms , ie. dependency, IU, etc. within 1 year of your initial decision, they only have to go back to the date of the late claim, otherwise, they have to go back to the date you initially filed your claim.
My advice, read all the VA blogs and comments & procedures you can find, because in this instance, what you don’t know could devastate you financially.
BE AWARE of the facts you need!!
See your Veteran Service Officer. He/she are required to help you and also help fill out all forms you need to get this corrected.
George, you will need to fill out VA Form 21-686c – Declaration of Status of Dependents and send it in to your regional VA Center. You can download the form online.
I was living out of the USA until Oct 31, 2009, then moved back. I’m a 100% service-connected disabled veteran. Can I still claim the $250 or is it too late?
I need to get a loan of 20 to 25, ooo dollars for my house. I need it bad, my husband was has been sick many years and I have let the house go, now that he died last sept. I want to fix it up but when I fill a app. out with every they say my credit is bad, of course it is, II didnt pay much WE didnt have it, he spent 20 yrs in the Navy and died of AGENT ORANGE AND HEART PROBLEMS, THE MILITARY OWNS HIM THAT AND ME TO SINCE i took care of him. JUATtell me how to get the money without been turned down.
As a disabled vet and a one time military spouse, in my observation these “Women” serve our country as much and sometimes more than the soldiers that I worked alongside. Due to necessity, they are often required to work minimum wage jobs to help make ends meet and forgo any type of career planning. They have to pick their families up and move every couple of years and find another job. If you read her post, it is obvious that her husband is a Vietnam Era Veteran which would make her in her 60s at least. So she has spent what should be her golden years taking care of an aging sick Veteran and kept the faith of her marriage and the military code of never leaving a man behind. Why don’t either of you tell me what you have done even once for a veteran since you left the service.
Barbara,
Contact a Veteran’s Advocate from the American Legion, AMVETS, or Disabled American Veterans. You should be able to find their numbers in your local phone directory. They can advise and assist you with benefits available to you as a spouse of a disabled deceased Veteran. I want to thank you and your husband for your service to our country and extend my condolences to you on his passing.
It’s good to see those rates rise! Not only because of inflation – but because the veterans deserve it!
Hello, Ryan,
I am desperate for help. Over 5 yrs. ago, I requested benefits for PTSDMST. I’ve been denied numerous times, although I have that very diagnosis from the VA & have undergone all the therapy I could get, including meds. Mind you, this occurred over 30 yrs. ago.
I am being told to request a Congressional Inquiry because its been over a yr. since I (with the help of the DAV) requested to have a hearing in St. Petersburg, FL via Skype. My next step for fighting the denials is my last….in Washington, DC. Can you give me any information as to where or who I can turn to? I don’t want to die waiting for an answer & this seems to be dragging on much more so than it should. Thank you for any help you can give me.
But George you will also need a certified copy of the marriage license, copy of her driver’s license and social security card as well as the form of the corrections
Robin,
Write a letter to your Senator about your situation in detail..Supply all records of your applications, denial letters and appeals. You also need to retain a Federal Attorney to help you with your case. Alot of us fellow Vets have been having this problem because in all of the wars including those of us who went to Iraq the first time and on TDY orders, these conditions will not be in our medical nor TDY files. I have tried too many times at the Jacksonville and Tampa, Florida offices and turned down because of the same reasons and because I was female.
I moved to Charleston, SC and the VA center/hospital/ER are awesome. When I was really sick, my Aunt took me down to the VA with my DD-214. I went to the office and was approved for everything but dental..Then went straight to the ER. They told me it would take like 8 weeks to get my VA medical card with picture.
I set up an appointment after leaving the ER and scheduled an appointment for a regular Dr. They asked if I needed to see a Psychiatrist the same day and I told him yes because I need to get back on my meds. The Psychiatrist asked a bunch of questions and said I had PTSD. She also stated she was in the military as well, she also said the military didn’t have a computer to put our medical information so it would be in our files. She also said now they do so everything can be noted in all military soldiers files. Trust me, I wrote a book when I filed for mine on March 8th, I also stated what the Psychiatrist stated about no computers were there so nothing got put into our files. And also gave me a number to call to get my VA benefits check, she said I was entitled to a check. I then was given a number to call and set an appointment to see a Psychiatrist Supervisor. He gave me a questionnaire, asked more questions as well as my Aunt..He then diagnosed me with severe PTSD. They have scheduled an appointment to have a permanent Case Manager, he is assigning me to a Psychiatrist under him/on his team. He said he will continue to be involved with my case. So never give up like I did for so many years….GET YOUR STATE SENATOR INVOLVED AND HIRE A FEDERAL ATTORNEY, the Federal Attorney isn’t cheap but worth it..GOOD LUCK AND I WILL PRAY FOR YOU ON THE LONG JOURNEY THAT YOU ARE FIXING TO GO THROUGH. At VA and any representative you speak to get their names and which VA they work for and their operator ID#. I hope this helps.
Thanks for all the info Leah. I just now saw your msg., so sorry for the delay in my response. I’ve been under psych care at the VA for the past 5 yrs. & have undergone intensive therapy, group & social work guidance. I am represented by the DAV & have been for over 30 yrs. My problem is that my records are not great because I served in the late 70′s. There is no way I can afford a federal attorney! I’m retired, on a fixed income. Again, thank you for the prayers. I will pray for you as well in your long journey to recovery from these issues that plague us.
I guess the bottom line is that I really do needget my senator involved.
If you haven’t done so, I would get in touch with SWAN – Service Women Action Network http://servicewomen.org/
They are very active in changing rules and helping women in the military that have experienced MST
I am receiving disability pay and they also forgot (or didn’t) include my wife. I have filled out the necessary paperwork and it now going through the process. Can you tell me approximately how long this will take? I took the VA nearly six years to approve my initial request.
Thank you,
Gerald
Gerald, it depends on your disability rating. For example, you typically need to ha ve a 30% of higher disability rating to receive an additional monthly payment foe a dependent. After that, you need to send supporting documentation, then it usually takes a couple months before they make the adjustment. It shouldn’t take more than 2 or 3 months, but each case is unique. If it takes longer than that, call the VA and ask if they have any updates.
Ryan,
Iv been rated 150% disabled but there paying me 90% i was told it would be hard to get my SS because im 28 and also hard to get the last 10% to be able to work .There’s no way i can make it on 2800 with a kid. I was told i could make up to 24k with 4 people in my house hold if i appd for unemployed nowshould i wait for the last 10% or file?
Thanks
Tj
TJ, Thanks for contacting us. To be honest, I don’t have a firm answer for you here. I’m familiar with the basics when it comes to VA Disability claims, but I’m not familiar with all of the strategies when it comes to 100% disability, Social Security Disability payments/qualifications, and how working will affect these benefits.
As far as unemployment benefits go, you may be eligible for them. However, I don’t know if they affect your ability to claim certain other benefits, such as Social Security disability benefits.
I recommend meeting with a counselor who specializes in these benefits plans to help you better understand all the options available to you. You may be able to find a qualified counselor at your local VA center, or through a veteran’s organization such as the VFW, American Legion, or similar groups.
I applied for Social Security. I went through the whole process all the way to the Judge. She told me if I got my VA claim then I would get it but that’s a lie because they do go by your age…And I think what they do is see how much money we get from VA to determine if we are entitled even they use it as income coming in besides how many is in the household.
It took me one and a half years to be told no…Good Luck
Thank you.
TJ,
You cannot take all of your ratings and combine them. That is not how it works. What you need to do is to look at the rating criteria found within the code of federal regulations. Search for VA Rating Criteria. Problem is that some items actually combined prevent you from getting 100%. Also, there is a lot of misinformation on this page.
First, being 100% disabled does not mean you are unemployable. You have to get that specific rating. You can be marked and permanantly and totally disabled but still hold a full time job. You have to know which of these you are.
I am a 100% disabled vet and I have a very good job working within my limited abilities. Get with your local DAV and have them sit down with you and explain these items to you.
Secondly,
Please understand that you are not automatically granted special permissions as a 100% disabled Vet, you need to do your research, ask educated questions and not assume that anyone “owes you” anything! The VA helps people who understand the processes.
Look up CFR 38 and search for your rating items. I cannot suggest any more than this, you have to do some work yourself…
Hope this helps.
Are you seriously telling me as a soldier you cant find any job at all to help you pay your bills at 2800 dollars a month? That is like collecting interest on a million dollars! get child support from the other parent get a room mate . Just because you are 150 disabled does not mean VA is going to pay you 100% disability they still feel your 7% capable of holding employment in the real world. So get a job. ask your family Veterans like you make the rest of us look bad 9 years army 3 years Iraq PTSD, nerve damage in right hand and lower back injuries for my disability. I still work 40 hours a week…
For Benjamin it’s great that you are able to work 40 hrs a week Good for you! I am just confused why you would bash a fellow soldier when you don’t know their situation. Are you a psychologist or do you think that your an expert because of your situation everyone is different. and working 40 hrs a week makes you no better than the rest of us that served and saw real tragedy. My advice don’t give advice if it is condescending.
I Concur. Let’s be respectful.
@Ryan, if you are currently rated 90% and being paid 100% you are considered “Permanently disabled” by the VA. Therefore, you cannot work at all. If you work, you must report it and you should be sent a form yearly indicating if you are working or not(I hope you are not). As for the 2,800 dollars you recieve each month… MY GOD that is a ton of money. You are very very fortunate to have that amount of money coming in each month (gauranteed). Be greatful and try to conserve your money. There are a lot of people that are so much worse off than you and I at the moment. As for @Benjamin, it sounds like you are holding a lot of hostility for others. I am sorry that you are still having to work, having a bad back and nerve damage is terribly painful(I know, I have it as well). Please try to respect others and don’t point so quickly… I believe anyone can make it on that amount of money if they just conserve and live a normal life. Don’t live a Champagne lifestyle with a beer budget. 2,800 is more than I made working in the IT industry in 2000. Trust me that is more than enough to raise a family if you watch how you spend your money… enough said. BTW, happy Veterans Day to all my brothers!
150% disability rating is impossible using VA math!
He is probably adding all his disability. I am 285% if i add all my disability ratings. But i also only got 90% after being in the hospital 6 months and fighting with the VA and using the DAV for over 2 years.
Just for info about VA comp math, the formula I have is, for example, if you’re 70%+20%+20%+20%+20%, you might say that you are 150% disabled, but the VA does not do it that way.
The VA considers you 30%*80%*80%*80%*80% ENABLED and that equates to 12% enabled. Subtract that from 100% and the result will be 88% disabled which rounds up to 90% disabled.
Now on another note, if you have dependents and provided all the information on your initial claim, it would make sense that they would adjudicate that information with your claim, right?
The VA knows that if you did not submit a separate dependency claim, that nobody bothered to tell you about, it would prolong and I imagine in some cases, where the person is not paying attention, eliminate the extra payment to your compensation completely.
If you do not file all forms , ie. dependency, IU, etc. within 1 year of your initial decision, they only have to go back to the date of the late claim, otherwise, they have to go back to the date you initially filed your claim.
My advice, read all the VA blogs and comments & procedures you can find, because in this instance, what you don’t know could devastate you financially.
BE AWARE of the facts you need!!
Hay Tj. Give me a call man. I got lots of good info for you. Here’s my number. Feel free to call me any time. I would like to speak with you and get your specificsd so i can give you the best option and answer possible.
(360) 771-6104. That is my cell call any time.
Todd Fahn
SSG US ARMY
Retired.
I have a longer post below that includes other filing information.
Just for info about VA comp math, the formula I have is, for example, if you’re 70%+20%+20%+20%+20%, you might say that you are 150% disabled, but the VA does not do it that way.
The VA considers you 30%*80%*80%*80%*80% ENABLED and that equates to 12% enabled. Subtract that from 100% and the result will be 88% disabled which rounds up to 90% disabled.
Hope that helps.
my wife and i are both disabled vet. we are having a in Aug. we were told we can use our 5 years of free health care to pay for some of the medical expenses along with my work health care but cannot find out any information on where to apply or if it is a real thing.
Hello Jerrod, I am not sure the details of the benefit you are referring to. I recommend contacting the VA for more specific information and to see if this applies to your situation. Best of luck, and thanks for your service!
are u asking for the women benefits when you are pregnant?
yes the VA will pay for one pregnancy, I when true it and they were great, I got to pick my own civilian doctor, hospital and the VA gave me all the medication I needed like the vitamins. I just went to women’s clinic in the VA and they did a pregnancy test and then they did the rest. They sent me a letter and I had to show that letter as my insurance card to whatever doctor and hospital I pick. They pay for everything, I did not have to pay anything. Thank you VA
P.S. make sure you have insurance line up for your baby the VA only for 7 days of benefits for the baby after the seven days your insurance has to kick in or is coming out of your pocket.
Where do I go for help with my PTSD/MST claim? I filed over 5 yrs. ago & am not getting anywhere! I have gone through hell & back. I’m represented by the DAV, & am now awaiting an in-person/skype review with the VA for 2 yrs. I am told to get a congressional inquiry. My psychiatrist is incredulous & so am I!!! Can you help me with any advice? Thank you so very much.
I have a question we have just had my parents move in with us due to financial hard ship. They comibne get 800.00 in social security a month my mom is 30% disabled NOT thru the VA but with social security. They are on several medications and has medicare with humana supplement. We want to add them to us so they can recieve medical insurance I know there is a way I have read people have done it but I just dont know how to do this. My husband is 100% disabled and we have ChampVA.
I was speaking to a fellow veteran about disability rates and found out his compensation was more than mine… (both 80% with spouse and 3 children).. The paperwork has now been filed and am waiting for the adjustment, I am aware of only being paid 1 year back and so on…
What I also noticed is that up to the current month (july 2012), I am still being paid at the 2010 compensation rates… Whats going on with that?
Sorry to clarify, they were not paying me for my spouse…. only the children.
Tim, You will need to contact the VA. Here is some information You may find helpful: How to Add or Remove a Dependent from VA Compensation Benefits, and How to appeal your VA Claim.
You will likely need to show proof of marriage, such as a marriage certificate.
I don’t know why the compensation rates would still be at 2010 levels, but your VA rep should be able to answer your question.
Best of luck, and thanks for your service!
If you have been rated 20%, can they ever lower your rating down the road?
Do you recieve the same amount no matter which state you live in or does it depend on where you are?
VA Disability rates are set at a national level. They payments don’t vary by location.
Recently received 100% disibility from VA. Formerly I had a 50% disability from the army. 52-year marriage became intolerable 17-years ago. Because of 20/20/20 ruling, if my legal wife and I divorced she would lose her military benefits, primarily the Tricare benefit which is very important for a 75-year old. Now that I have been given 100% as opposed to 50% previously, is there some kind of exception/waiver for me?
James, I don’t have a god answer for you here. I recommend contacting the VA or a lawyer who specializes with VA disability cases, or with military divorces. I wish you the best of luck with your situation, and thanks for your service.
My ex-boyfriend and I recently broke up. He is a veteran and receives non- service connected pension checks. He is trying to claim our unborn baby as a dependent. I’m going to be supporting our baby because he wants nothing to do with us anymore. Question is can he claim the baby as a dependent wothout my permission?
Daunishia:
Yes, he can, as long as he has all the necessary documents, i.e., SSN, birth certificate, etc. of the child.
Daunishia,
It really depends on the state you live in. But if he doesn’t pay child support to the child and pay for at least half of the child care costs (you both will need proof of support) he cant according to IRS tax law. Look up the IRS website for the specifics.
i have recently had my rating raised from 70% to 100% perm and stationary. I am wondering if I should now apply for SS since I am no longer able to work. Can anyone tell me the pro’s and con’s of applying/collecting SS in conjunction with 100% VA disability?
PS – I am still employable but because of my disabilities it’s not a viable thing to do for me
Hay,
Well first thing. Has the VA told u u have to stop working?? Do you enjoy your job?? Then if u said no to likeing ur job quit fill for ssd. Its ur money you earned it. If u are app for ssd u can still work but only part time. Look upvwhat the rules are in your state. But its going to take some time to get threw and approved. I am also 100% i had to get a lawer. I would post the whole story but it would take to long. So my advice file asap. Enjoy your 100%
I am getting paid 80%. I was not married when my claim was approved. I was married this year in august. Can I now claim my wife on my disability and if so what steps do I need to take.
Yes you can now claim your wife or any children. You need to go on to your Ebenefits web site and you can go to apply for benefits or you can go to your local VA office and apply. Make sure you have her SSN and everything.
Frank, please see this article: How to Add or Remove a Dependent from VA Compensation Benefits.
It gives instructions for adding dependents to your VA claim. Best of luck, and thanks for your service!
Thanks for the reply Todd fahn:
I am permanent and stationary 100% but can still work per the VA…but one of my conditions reeks havoc with my balance and I don’t feel safe working now. The VA Doctors told me they can “probably” repair some of my balance issues with surgery, but I also have a service connected profound bi lateral hearing loss and the surgery to correct the balance issues will, without a doubt cause me to loose the little bit of hearing I do have left so I’m not going to have the surgery.
1st Q: My real question is this, if you do apply and get social security disability will that lower the amount you receive from the VA?
2nd Q: If I am receiving only the 100% disability from the VA and nothing from the Army any longer will the VA compensation always be considered disability or at some point or some age does the disability become a pension or retirement payment?
Thanks again for the assistance!!
OK question 1. The amount you receive from the VA will never go down because of any other benefit you receive. VA disability is a completely different entity from the government SSD. Now for Nevada you can not collect SS Income due to the amount you make on VA Disability. Even tho your VA disability is NON TAXABLE!!! Just like your paycheck when u were in a combat zone.
Question 2: if you could not tell from question one. No your VA DISABILITY will never become a pension or ever become a retirement plan. Your disability will always stay your disability. If you want a retirement plan it is on you to save the money or take the money and build one.
Thanks again for the info, I’m A okay with it staying “disability” for the rest of my life. Someone had told me at a specific age it automatically changes over to a pension instead of disability. I will do some investigating to see how CA and SS income is set up for disabled vets too…
Have a Great New Years all!!
I would appreciate some advice. I receive 20% disability for my knees. The last year or so my knees have gotten worse. I want to know how to go about getting my knees looked at and receive more disability.
is it true that if you get over a 70% rating your family gets health care?
Zachary, I haven’t heard of this before and I wasn’t able to find anything about this online. The only dependent health care that I am aware of is for retirees, survivors of deceased military members (the military member generally had to die while on active duty), and other limited circumstances. However, the health care is not usually provided through the VA, which generally only provides health care for the veteran. TRICARE, TRICARE for Life, and CHAMPVA are some of the health care programs dependents may be eligible to use. For more information, I recommend contacting your local VA hospital or clinic, or a veterans service organization.
If your a Chapter 61, forced medically retired veteran, be aware! The “Disabled Veterans Tax”, also called “Concurrent Receipt” will tax your retirement if you were force-out prior to serving 20 years of active service. The Disabled Veterans Tax -is paid on a $1-for-$1 ratio. For every dollar you receive from Disability Compensation, you must pay a dollar from your medical retirement. I served 19 years, 4 months, and 26 days of active service. Because I did not serve 20 years and am 100% disabled, my retirement pay is automatically forwarded to the Disabled Veteran Tax. I lost all of my retirement because of the “Disabled Veterans Tax”, also called “Concurrent Receipt”. For 11 years, I figured I lost over $200,000 in medical retirement as my punishment for becoming disabled prior to serving 20 years of active service.
i have a question that nobody (even the va) has been able to help me with. i am service connected for 30%, and my wife is service connected for 100%. her monthly amount reflects the “veteran plus spouse” amount, however mine only shows the “veteran only” amount.
my question is, can i also qualify for the “veteran plus spouse amount”? i ask this because i clearly indicated i was married when i filed my paperwork.
my fear is that either or both of our amounts will be changed if i start “rocking the boat” on this, because we have both been wronged by the va on multiple occasions.
is it worth even fighting yet another battle with them on this?
thanks.
I have been fighting the VA for almost 7 years. I was finally rated at 50% in March of 2011 with a rating date of July 2010. I appealed and got a rating date of March 2009. I’m appealing again because it should be November 2006.
My issue is with the deferred payments. Obviously, at least to me, when the rating date changes they owe me money. To my way of thinking they should have given me back everything they had been taking out of my retirement pay and then made up the difference betwwn the 40% and the 50% rating pay. Does anyone know where I can find out how it was and is all calculated?
I’m tired of all the snifling and whining. I left some dead young friends in Vietnam some forty years ago who will never smell the roses. All of this money has made you all weak from your wounds thinking someone owns you something. Yeah you made a sacrifice but not the altemate one. If you’re still feeling something, even the pain, then relax. No one owes you anything, you own it to yourself to live no matter what.
I find your comments disrespectful and judgemental. Many of us here lost friends in the service and some of us lost family as well. Some veterans depend on their disability money to care for their family. But wether we do or not is not the point. This is a benefit we earned, for me it was through 23 years of service. Many of us need sites like this one to get information and updates that should be provided by the VA. However, the VA is focused more on getting us to give up on seeking information rather than help us as promised. I’ve been places and done things that would scare the crap out of most people, so please don’t judge me or any other veteran.
I am receiving 80% disp. applied for 100% for Vietnam injuries my VA doctor gave me a letter that I am 100% unable to work. What other paper work do I need — PTSD -heart attack – diabetes I filed in Nov.2012 in St, Pete.
John, You will need to work directly with the VA about your rating. You may find it helpful to contact a service organization such as the DAV (Disabled American Veterans), VFW, American Legion, or another veteran’s organization that has trained members who can help you with your disability claim. Best of luck, and thanks for your service!
I receive 60% for service connected (29 yrs in the USAF)). The Dayton VA has been very good to me and my family. I appreciate it and want to say thanks!
Retired Msgt. Gregory A. Noval
USAF 10.5 Yrs, USAFR 12.5 Yrs and Ohio Air Guard 6 yrs.
If someone who gets va pay can u lose it if you start getting bettrr
Prior US Army Infantry SGT. I had recently received 30% for my back and 10% for knee so in total 40%. My question is I had gone and received a Back surgery L5S1 but during my medical operation a screw went through my nerve canal L5 and I have lost feeling to my right side from Knee to foot and was wondering since I went for corrective surgery on my back with proper guidance from 3 different doctors and now I have paralysis on my right side and will be again evaluated by a VA doc would my percentage change since Its now not combat related, and would VA help with proving malpractice or should I do that privately. Thank you for your time
Monty, The injury doesn’t have to be combat related to qualify for VA compensation. The reason you had the injury was because you were injured while in the military, so subsequent injuries related to the initial injury may qualify for additional or upgraded benefits. You will need to contact the VA for more specific information. Best of luck, and thanks for your service.
Thank you so much for such a fast response to my question.
Mr. Ryan Guina
To all May God bless us all, Thank you for serving. Bobby& Debra, ( Andy Poo) Ft Campbell 73-74 Germany 74-75 ft lost in the woods 76 2nd eng camp castal, 77-79 ft carson, Germany 79-82 16th eng ft Lee va 82-84, Germany 84-87. Ft jackson SC 1972, Jump school Ft Benning Ga, 72-73.
Hello, I’ve been out of the military since Aug 22nd 2011. Sometime between then and July of 2012 I’ve been receiving my qtc exams in a different state, I got the address changed and finally got an appointment this past December 5th 2012. What time frame should I expect to hear my percentage? Also would I receive back pay from the day I etsd? Because that’s around the time I filed. Thank you, and God bless.
I only have two questions, 1st is, I myself am a 70% disabled vet that claims my husband, 2 children under 18 years of age as well as a son that attends college over the age of 18, now my husband whom has served 27 years is now retiring in April, and he will either be 100% or very close to it, so what happens as far as dependents go??? Do I keep them or does he get them? 2nd Question, Can re receive VA disability, SSI, and Retirement at the same time?
Thank you,
Janet
Hello Janet, it is possible to receive VA-disability and military retirement at the same time. However, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) requires a means test for eligibility. So it depends upon income. It is, however, possible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) along with the other mentioned benefits. SSDI pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you are “insured,” meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. (source: http://www.ssa.gov/disability/)
My recommendation is to meet with a Social Security agent and work with them to help file the claim. You will want to do this as soon as your husband retires from the military.
Regarding both of you receiving VA disability benefits with dependents: I was not able to find any information about this situation and whether or not you will both receive the “with dependents” rate. My recommendation is to contact the VA and ask them how the process works.
Is there a site or a place to go to find accurate information on other benefits that come alongside a rating of 30%, 50%, 80%? I have heard all sorts of talk from children will receive free tuition to special DMV rates, even house loans. I recently just got notice my claim was completed and I want to be sure to make the most of what the VA rated me. (Wont know what that is until package arrives) thank you for your time.
Chris V
Gainesville, FL
That is a great question, but to be honest, I am not aware of a site that lists benefits in that fashion. In many cases, the benefits depend on the nature of the disability. For example, certain disabled veterans are eligible for home improvements if they are required for wheelchair accessibility or related improvements. Other veterans may be eligible for a clothing allowance if they have disabilities that require prosthesis or skin creams that damage their clothing. So most of these benefits come on a case by case basis. Each state may have unique benefits as well, so it helps to check with your state veterans affairs office (examples include disabled veteran license plates, homestead tax exemptions, and more).
Very good information. I have several questions. This is my husbands case. He was on the temporary list with the 5 years ID card. After that,now he is 90% disabled thru VA. I’m confused about knowing of people medically retired with 30% and have all the benefits but we didn’t get any. All my husband get is VA medical benefits. Why we can’t get an ID to use benefits such as commissary and so forth? Also, I see on this website about claiming children in college. Our daughter is in college and we were told that they don’t count once they reach 18 years, so his check is only based on both of us. Please help me understand this. Right now he lost his job and I’m the only one bringing the bacon home. Just been able to use the commissary would be a great help. Thanks again.
Rally, There is a difference from being medically retired from the military and have a service-connected disability from the VA. Those who are medically retired reached a certain point in their service and were no longer able to continue serving due to a medical issue. Because of this, the military gave them a medical retirement. A service-connected disability is given by the VA, not the military.
Regarding your college age daughter – children no longer count once they reach age 18 unless they are attending college. You should contact the VA and ask them what you need to do to prove she is still attending college so you can add her back to your claim.
I was initially given 20% when I retired on 1 Jul 2007! 4 appeals later on May of 2012 the VA agreed and said they had made a mistake with 2 different areas where the agreed and gave me 10% for each of them! So May 2012 they upped me to 40% which rounds down to 34% which rounds down to 30%! It is now Feb 2013 and they have still not updated me being with dependents! What steps should I take if any with that decision?
My second question is I was approved but given 0% on many other things, Is there a way to get my entire case reviewed again with someone other than person who has worked my case from the beginning? Really irritated! I feel I’ve been ******* over from the beginning, I recently had an old troop retire last Aug and he told me he’s getting 80% and his entire claim is finished! This guy is in way better shape than I am!!! And I’ve been dealing with this since Jul 2007! If I could please have a reply on what to do/if I can get my entire process reviewed from start to finish, I do feel there has been some major wrong decisions, especially when after the 4th appeal they admitted as such!! Thanks!! Again thanks very much!!!
Richard, I recommend contacting someone from the DAV (Disabled American Veterans), VFW, American Legion, or another service organization. They all have knowledgeable individuals who can help you with your specific requests.
VA awarded me 20% decision after my claim was initiated on 1 Feb. 12, it took nearly 12 months to process the claim. My question is will I receive any retro backpay for those months I waited?
Mark, You should receive retro back pay from the date you filed your initial VA claim, provided 1) you were already separated from the military at the time and 2) the items you are receiving compensation for were on your initial claim (example: if your medical examinations revealed any new disabilities, then you wouldn’t receive compensation for them until the date you added them to your claim).
Ryan,
My Father is a Silver Star Vet. and lived most of his life with less than 30% disability. A few years ago he was reevaulated and recieved 90% disablity. My question is since I am in graduate school is there any assistance for me. I cannot tell you if it is service connected or not.
I am a disabled veteran: my name is Rigoberto Flores: and I have a question will my bennefits effect me in any way if I get married!
It was interesting reading the comments on this sight. My husband was in the the Air Guard for 36 and was an Air technition for the Air National Guard for 34 years at least. He had to work around jet engines with out hearing protection for about ten years. His hearing has been bad for a long time. He finally had his ears checked by an audiologist who said he has severe hearing loss. He needs two stong hearing aids. they cost about 4700 dollars. We don’t have that kind of money. Is there some way he can get help. He had his ears checked regularly while in the guard but not since he has been out which is about 11 years.
Jane, your husband should contact the nearest VA medical center or clinic and inquire about filing a VA claim. It is possible he may be awarded a service-connected disability rating based on his hearing loss. If his claim is approved, the VA would likely assist with the cost of the hearing aids. It can take some time for claims to be approved, so I recommend he file his claim as soon as possible.
I separated from the Air Force in 1985. I was given a separation bonus and was awarded disability at 10%. I have not seen one disability check, I have called my local VA for answers. I spoke with several people and got different responses. One of which was that I was double dipping from the military. I was told that I couldn’t receive my disability checks until the separation bonus was paid off. I would really like to get clarification, can you help? I need to know who I need to talk to. I don’t think that I have been contacting the correct people. Thanks for your help.
Hello Tina, My understanding is the same as what they told you – when you receive a separation check for a disability, the disability compensation checks won’t be sent until the initial amount has been paid off. It is possible the information was never sent to the VA or it otherwise got lost in the shuffle. My recommendation is to find all copies of the paperwork you have received and use this to help with your claim. You may find it helpful to contact a veterans service organization for assistance. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV), VFW, and several other organizations offer free support for these kinds of claims.
question for anyone out there with somewhat similar circumstance. im recently rated at 70% with a child. plan to get married soon, my fiance has a daughter of her own from previous marrage. she has full custody of her daughter with no help from her ex husband. my question is once we get married can i claim her daughter and an additional dependant? question 2 is my mother is on social security income as a widow. what would i have to do to add her as a dependant also? or are these both impossible givin the circumstances? anybody out there know anything about these issues? and imput would be greatly appreciated? thank you brothers!
Ryan,
I’ve been 40% service connected for years (20/10/10/10). My condition has worsened and I filed a new claim. Today I received my decision letter from a filing over a year ago.
While they did concur and add a 20% and a 10% for the new claim, at the same time they took away two of my 10% claims.
Have you heard of the VA taking away previous ratings? The letter states that 2 of my previous claims are “Reinstated” and then adds the new claim. But the letter does not mention at all the two ratings they took away.
Have you heard of this before? The two missing ratings are not related to any of the others. Could it be an oversight or is this how it works?
Thanks,
Adam, Yes, I have heard that the VA can reduce or remove disability ratings, but that it is rare. Unfortunately, I don’t have much information about how this works. I recommend contacting a veterans service organization such as the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) to see if they can have one of their experts help you better understand your claim.
My husband was recently increased from 60% to 80%. At what point are myself and our children allowed medical benefits? How do I get these? Also our payment doesn’t match up with the above chart. Could they have made a mistake in the amount of dependents? My husband is under the impression that we can’t get family coverage until he is at 100%.
I believe the program you are referring to is CHAMPVA which is available to dependents of veterans who are listed as totally and permanently disabled by a VA regional office.
Just a little tip. Try filing for compensation for your symptoms and not illnesses. The VA can’t deny that those symptoms didn’t take place on active duty if they are in your records. Diagnosis are very tought to get compensation for. So instead let them diagnose you at the VA and keep being seen for their diagnoses but only file a claim for the symptoms. Just a little hint.
hello im 60% disable and my rep. is trying to increase my PTSD also i was denied for my knee that i can barely lean on. i had various surgery but the main one i was on active duty on leave when i was rush to the ER and they had to do acl and minecus repair . when i got out of service they couldn’t find any records because it was done at a local civilian hospital. i also have sleep disoder and sleep apnea which is not even been claim for.
I was involved in some missions that some how where not documented and suffer various injuries, they gave me PTSD because of partial documents but haven’t given me anything else including purple heart which my therapist says i deserve. was shot various times, crash in a helo and was also bomb twice in the middle east one time loosing my hearing. can i claim disability for things that magically disapear?
thank you
Hi, I am Trent. I served in the operation iraqi freedom. I got out of the Marine Corps in 2003 right after i got back from iraq. During my time in the service i injured my right ankle several times. I have it documented in my medical records. All throughout my time in the Corps i have had lower back pain. I did not complain about it or go to BAS due to everyone else complaining about their back pain. I talked to a corpsman about one time and he said that his back hurt as well and that everyone else’s was. So i never went to have it evaluated because of fear of being called out over it. About five years after i got out i finally got fed up with it and went to the VA hospital and the Doctor confirmed that my pain was from a degenerating disc in my L5. Since serving in the war i have noticed over time that i have had symptoms of PTSD that have lasted a long time. I went and talked to the representive at the DAV today and he told me that my back could very well be degerating due to my right ankle. My ankle is really jacked believe me. I finally made my claim today using the DAV. My questions are: If i have not received any treatment for PSTD but when i take a test for it, it comes back positive, how hard will it be for me to make a claim on it? I mean, what is the process for that? I know i am not 100% disabled from it. I can still function, but i know that i am not like the average person. If i don’t have any documention about my back while i was in the service, how hard will it be for me to prove that it could be related to my ankle injuries?
I am definitely not trying to get as much as i can from the VA. I will appreciate what ever percentage they give me. Any help from anyone’s experience would be greatly appreciated on my end. Thanks alot for helping?
Trent