Navigating the VA disability system with a 10% service-connected rating?
The 2024 Guide is designed to provide a clear understanding of the benefits available at this rating level, with an emphasis on compensation, additional benefits for dependents, and strategies to improve your rating.
In this article, you learn how to:
Compensation for 10% VA Disability Ratings Dependent Allowances for 10% VA Disability Ratings Primary Benefits of 10% VA Disability Ratings Social Security Considerations for 10% VA Disability Ratings Path to Off-Schedule TDIU for 10% Rating Veterans How to Increase Your VA Disability Rating from 10%
Let’s take a closer look at the details of the 10% VA disability benefit.
What is the compensation amount for a 10% VA disability rating?
In 2024, veterans with a 10 percent disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs can expect to receive $171.23 per month.
This rate reflects the latest adjustments to ensure veterans’ compensation is paid in line with the cost of living.
Are you considering increasing your rating?
Moving to the 50% rating could result in a significant increase in monthly benefits of more than $900.
Strategies to Increase VA Disability Rating by 10%
Want to improve your rating?
The options are:
Appeal: File an appeal within one year of the rating decision. File a new claim: Apply for an increased rating or additional conditions. Apply for TDIU: If your disability impairs your ability to work despite the 10% rating. Secondary Service-Connected: Apply for conditions that were caused or aggravated by your service-connected disability.
Main Benefits of the 10% VA Disability Rating
With a 10% rating, you will receive certain VA benefits, including:
Free medical care for service-connected disabilities (including mental health services and readjustment counseling). Your assignment to VA Health Care Priority Group 3 determines your out-of-pocket costs for hospitalization, outpatient care, and medications related to your service-connected illness. If you receive a rating of 10% or higher, you will have no out-of-pocket costs for hospitalization or outpatient care. Medication for the treatment of your service-connected disability is free. There may be a copayment for medications for non-service-connected illnesses. Transportation allowance for medical appointments related to your service-connected disability. Covers transportation costs such as plane tickets, mileage, train tickets, taxi or bus fares, and meals and lodging. Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Services. Provides job training, resume writing, job preparation assistance, and supportive rehabilitation services to veterans who have difficulty working due to their service-connected disability. VA Funding Fee Waiver on VA Home Loans. VA loans can save you money because they require no down payment and have favorable terms. VA Life Insurance (VALife) offers guaranteed acceptance of lifetime life insurance with up to $40,000 in coverage for veterans with service-connected disabilities. Federal Employment Preference Program gives you a 10-point preference on your federal job application, increasing your chances of being hired. Commissary Access allows tax-free shopping at on-base commissaries, potentially resulting in significant savings.
Click below to learn more about all the benefits you and your family are entitled to as a veteran.
10% Social Security with VA Disability Pension
If you’re rated at 10%, you may be eligible for Social Security benefits, but your eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) depends on your overall disability status and income.
10% VA Disability and Unplanned TDIU
Although a higher rating is usually required to directly qualify for TDIU, veterans with a 10% rating may be considered for TDIU off-schedule consideration if their service-connected disability specifically prevents employment.
TDIU gives veterans the opportunity to receive the maximum amount of disability compensation.
Click below for more information and learn more about how it can benefit your situation.
Click here to find out everything you need to know about IU benefits.
Cassandra Crosby, a Certified Agent and Claims Advocate with the Matthew Hill and Shelly Mark team, has reviewed the information provided in this post.