As of August 2023, over 1.1 million Veterans are 100% disabled. Having 100% VA disability means that these brave men and women gave everything they had to serve our country. Now, it is our country’s turn to serve them.
Those with a 100% VA disability rating are eligible for benefits besides monetary compensation – ranging from health care to pursuing a new career.
It is important to note that not all of these benefits are exclusive to Veterans with 100% VA Disability. If questions arise about any of the following benefits, they can be answered by the expert staff at Veteran Ratings. They stay on top of all things relating to Veterans, so Veterans can focus on what matters to them.
Compensation Benefits
1. Veterans with a 100% VA disability rating receive a tax-free monthly compensation of $3,737.85. This financial support aims to provide them with a stable income. The VA does not dictate how the money should be used. The amount of money remains constant regardless of whether the Veteran is employed.
For more information about the compensation for each disability rating, click here to use the Veteran Ratings disability calculator. This free-to-use calculator can provide each rating level and projected income level.
2. Another well-known benefit for Veterans is additional compensation for dependents under the Veteran’s care. This means that if a Veteran has a disability claim and takes care of their children, spouse, or parents, they are entitled to extra compensation. Please visit this website for the full breakdown of what the VA qualifies as a dependent.
Health Care Benefits
3. One of the most significant benefits to Veterans with 100% VA Disability is access to no-cost health care. This covers a wide range of medical services, ensuring the Veteran receives the care needed without the financial burden. For a more general breakdown of how the VA handles health care for Veterans, please visit their website here.
4. While the VA differentiates health care and dental care into two separate care plans, it should be known that dental care is at no cost as well. More information about the VA’s dental plan can be found on the VA’s website.
5. Veterans are also eligible for a travel allowance for scheduled medical appointments. This allowance helps cover traveling costs to doctors, hospitals, or physical therapy appointments. A more detailed view of the medical Travel Allowance offered by the VA can be found here.
Financial Benefits
6. When Veterans apply for a VA home loan, they will receive a waiver for the funding fee. The VA funding fee is a one-time payment that a Veteran would pay on a VA-backed or VA-direct home loan. Receiving disability compensation means the Veteran will receive a waiver for the total funding fee amount.
7. Veterans can concurrently receive VA disability compensation and retirement pay. This benefit ensures Veterans receive the financial support they earned through their service. For more information on the qualifications for this benefit, please visit this DFAS website.
8. In the unfortunate event of a Veteran’s passing, their family can receive a burial and plot allowance from the VA. This financial aid helps cover funeral costs, easing the burden on loved ones during that challenging time.
Employment Opportunities
9. Veterans with a 100% VA disability rating receive a 10-point hiring preference for federal jobs. This gives you a competitive edge when applying for government positions. Veterans can learn more about the 10-point hiring process by visiting this website.
10. Another employment benefit offered is Direct Hire Authority (DHA). With DHA, Veterans don’t need to compete for specific federal jobs, allowing them to skip the interview process. This is offered at federal and non-federal employment, and the employer does NOT require it. Visit this website for more information about DHA.
11. The last employment benefit offered is Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31 or VR&E). The VA understands that service-connected conditions can create a barrier between Veterans and employment.
This program helps those with service-connected conditions jump-start into a new career. It offers training, supplies, and much more to ensure that Veterans have all the tools to successfully transition into their previous line of work or start a new career.
Additional Benefits
12. Veterans can receive a Uniformed Services ID, which acts like a CAC. This ID grants general military base access, including commissary, PX/MCX/NCX, and other base amenities. For more information about how to get a uniformed services ID, please visit this VA website.
Exclusive Benefits for 100% Permanent and Total Disability
The following benefits are only offered to those that are rated at 100% Permanent and Total.
13. The Dependent’s Educational Assistance program, referred to as Chapter 35, is offered to provide academic assistance to a Veteran’s dependents. This program allows them to pursue higher education without the added stress of financial strain. To learn more about the qualifications of DEA, please visit here.
14. The last benefit to Veterans is also provided to the spouses of Veterans who are 100% P&T. This program covers the partial cost of some health care services and supplies through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA).
More information and qualifications about CHAMPVA can be found here.
Conclusion
Navigating the benefits available to Veterans with a 100% VA disability rating can be overwhelming. However, understanding these benefits can greatly improve the quality of life of both Veterans and their family. From compensation to health care and employment opportunities, these benefits are designed to support Veterans in various aspects of life.
If you still need to file a claim, now is the time. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help navigating these benefits. Your service deserves to be honored; these benefits are a way to recognize your sacrifice.
FAQ
How do I receive a 100% VA disability rating?
Those who receive a 100% disability rating are ones whose service-connected injuries or conditions severely limit their ability to work and acclimate back into the civilian world. If you do not have a disability rating or a rating that accurately represents your service-connected conditions, contact Veteran Ratings today for a risk-free consultation.
Is the monthly compensation I receive taxable?
No, your monthly compensation for your 100% VA disability rating is tax-free.
What is the process for getting a travel allowance for medical appointments?
To receive a veteran’s travel allowance, you need to file a claim with the VA Travel Office, which is usually located within your VA medical facility. Keep records of your travel for documentation.
How do I apply for these benefits?
You can apply for benefits yourself directly through the VA, however, this can lead to confusion and often resulting in an inaccurate claim. Another option is to go through a service like Veteran Ratings that will help you navigate every step of the way.
Can my disability rating change over time?
Yes, your disability rating can change. The VA reserves the right to reevaluate the rating at any time to ensure it reflects the current severity of a veteran’s condition. This helps reduce false claims and those utilizing the system for personal gain.
Are my benefits affected if I move to another state?
Most benefits for veterans with a 100% VA disability rating are federally administered and consistent across states. However, some benefits, like state-specific tax exemptions or other local rewards, may vary.
For a detailed list of benefits per state, visit the Veteran Ratings state benefits guide. This free-to-use tool allows you to see every state-specific benefit offered by every state.
