Disability Ratings

Once a veteran's present-day medical condition has been "service connected" - that is linked to the veteran's military service - the VA evaluates the veteran's medical condition to determine its degree of disability. More often as not, this is done by a VA examination. [If the evaluation is for an original claim, which is previously not "service connected', the veteran's VA examination(s) will include a "nexus" examination to see if the present-day medical condition is caused by or aggravated by an event which happened while the veteran was on active military duty. If the claim is for an increase in the % of a previously "service connected" disability, the medical examination will solely focus on a disability evaluation since a nexus has already been established.]

The percentage of disability is awarded as a % of 100. The amount of money benefits paid monthly to the veteran is determined by the % of disability awarded to the veteran for a "service connected" medical disability. Generally, the monthly payments are based on % of disability, and not the type of medical condition. That is, a person who is 100% disabled due to PTSD receives the same dollar amount each month as someone who is 100% disabled for heart disease.

The general range of money benefits extends upwards from $123.00 (10%) to $2673.00 (100% combined rating) each month. Generally, these benefits are tax free, and not subject to garnishment or attachment except for nonpayment of federal income taxes, or overpayment of VA or other federal benefits and assistance.

There are several exceptions which may trigger additional / larger payments. Some medical conditions such as the loss of limbs, or the suffering from an extremely disabling medical condition(s) which limit a veteran's employability, can trigger additional / larger benefits. Additionally, a seriously disabled spouse may entitle the veteran to additional benefits.

Additionally, a veteran who is determined to be 30% or greater disabled is entitled to additional compensation for his or her dependents. Dependents include children, a spouse, and even the veteran's parents depending on the circumstances.

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The Berry Law Firm is a nationwide veterans disability benefits practice, serving veterans in every state, including Nebraska, Florida, California, Texas, Missouri, Illinois, Arizona, Virginia, Ohio and Georgia.