Key rating thresholds unlock benefits beyond the monthly check: 30% (dependents), 50% (no copays), 70% (TDIU eligibility, state property tax exemptions), 100%/P&T (CHAMPVA, Chapter 35 DEA, max state benefits). When near a threshold, prioritize claims with a path to the next bracket.
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What each rating level unlocks
Beyond the monthly check, certain rating thresholds unlock entirely separate benefits. Knowing where these thresholds are can change which claims you file first and how aggressively you appeal.
| Rating | What it unlocks |
|---|---|
| 0% | Service connection established. No monthly compensation, but VA health care priority increases. Future increases become easier. SMC-K may apply. |
| 10% | First monthly payment. VA home loan funding fee waiver. Priority Group 3 health care. |
| 30% | Eligible to add dependents (spouse, children, dependent parents). Compensation increases meaningfully. |
| 40–60% | Continued monthly increases. Some state benefits begin (varies by state). |
| 50% | VA health care Priority Group 1 — no copays for any VA medical care. |
| 70% | TDIU eligibility threshold if you cannot work. State property tax exemptions begin in many states. |
| 100% Schedular | Maximum monthly payment. CHAMPVA for dependents. Chapter 35 DEA for dependents’ education. Many state benefits. |
| 100% P&T | All 100% benefits PLUS no future re-exams, dependent benefits unlocked immediately, Specially Adapted Housing grants, automobile allowance eligibility. |
Strategy
If you are at 60% or 70% combined, the next single rating that pushes you to 80% or 100% is worth more than the dollar increase alone — it unlocks CHAMPVA, Chapter 35, state tax exemptions, and other dependent benefits. Prioritize claims that have a realistic path to a 30%+ individual rating when you are near a threshold.
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