Free Resource · VA Benefits Ladder
VA Disability Rating 0%: What It Means and What Unlocks
What this rating means
A 0% rating means the VA has your service connection on record, but doesn't assign the condition a compensable level. There's no monthly pay, but the condition is documented — and increases and secondary claims build from it. The service-connected condition can also carry health care priority for that condition.
What unlocks at this level
- Service connection on record — no monthly pay, but the condition is documented VA.gov source
- Increases and secondary claims build from it VA.gov source
- Health care priority for that condition VA.gov source
What to check next
VA Disability Pay Calculator
Check your estimated pay at this level — no signup, nothing saved.
VA Math: why the VA doesn't add ratings
See how combined ratings actually work.
Secondary Service Connection
The condition your condition caused — chains that can support a secondary claim.
Rating Code Book
Look up diagnostic codes and their ratings criteria.
Take what you learned to a free accredited VSO.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does a 0% VA disability rating pay monthly compensation?
No. A 0% rating puts your service connection on record but pays no monthly compensation. The condition is documented, and increases and secondary claims build from it.
Can I increase a 0% rating later?
Yes. Increases and secondary claims build from the service connection already on record.
Does a 0% rating help with VA health care?
The service-connected condition can carry health care priority for that condition.
Veteran tools — all free
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Claims Preparation Guide
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Rating Code Book
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VSO Directory
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