Free Resource · VA Benefits Ladder
VA Disability Rating 80%: What It Means and What Unlocks
What this rating means
An 80% rating sits in the higher compensation tiers. SMC — Special Monthly Compensation — is considered for serious additional losses.
What unlocks at this level
- Higher compensation tiers (check your pay with our calculator) VA.gov source
- SMC consideration for serious additional losses VA.gov source
What to check next
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does an 80% rating unlock?
The higher compensation tiers, plus Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) consideration for serious additional losses.
What is SMC?
Special Monthly Compensation — considered for serious additional losses, such as the loss of use of limbs or certain organs.
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