Free Resource · VA Benefits
What Unlocks at Each Rating Level
Non-monetary milestones only. For pay questions at any level, check the VA Disability Pay Calculator. Every tier also has its own page in the benefits-by-rating ladder.
| Rating level | What unlocks (non-monetary) |
|---|---|
| 0% | Service connection on record — no monthly pay, but the condition is documented; increases and secondary claims build from it; health care priority for that condition. |
| 10% / 20% | Basic monthly compensation (calculator); VA health care enrollment; 10% tier includes no dependents allowance. |
| 30% | Dependents can be added to compensation; VetSuccess employment services access. |
| 40% | Increased dependents rates. |
| 50% | The military-retiree crossover — Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay generally requires 50%+ for full concurrent receipt (CRDP); VR&E eligibility instead of GI Bill for retraining. |
| 60% | Travel pay for VA medical appointments. |
| 70% | Priority Group 1-3 healthcare banding; Aid & Attendance eligibility begins (with qualifying dependency status); commissary/exchange eligibility for qualified vets and caregivers (per current DoD policy — verify). |
| 80% / 90% | Higher compensation tiers; SMC consideration for serious additional losses. |
| 100% | Maximum compensation (calculator) + CHAMPVA for family (if not TRICARE-eligible); dental priority; property tax exemptions in many states; education/registration fee waivers in many states; national parks lifetime access pass. |
| 100% P&T | Permanence protections + dependent education programs (Ch. 35 DEA). |
| TDIU | TDIU pays the 100% rate for eligible veterans whose service-connected conditions prevent substantially gainful work — regardless of combined math. |
Verification note: every row cites its source page at VA.gov (or the responsible agency, such as DoD/DFAS for CRDP) on the linked tier page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this page show pay amounts?
No. Milestones list non-monetary unlocks only — for pay questions at any level, check the VA Disability Pay Calculator.
What unlocks at a 50% rating?
The military-retiree crossover: Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay generally requires 50%+ for full concurrent receipt, and VR&E eligibility can fund retraining instead of the GI Bill.
What is TDIU?
A different door to the 100% rate for eligible veterans whose service-connected conditions prevent substantially gainful work — regardless of combined math.
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