VA Disability Ratings Explained: 5 Things Every Veteran Needs to Know
- bwelts3
- 2 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Navigating the VA disability system can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re trying to focus on your health, your family, and your next chapter after service. The truth is, understanding the VA rating process can make all the difference in getting the benefits you’ve earned.
At United Veteran, our mission is to guide veterans through this process with clarity, compassion, and expertise. Here are five things every veteran should know about how the VA determines disability ratings — and how to make sure you’re set up for success.
1. Your Rating Reflects the Severity of Your Conditions
The VA uses a percentage system — from 0% to 100% — to measure how much your service-connected conditions affect your ability to work and function daily. Each condition is assigned a specific rating, and those percentages combine (through what we all know as “VA math”) to create your overall disability rating. Even a 10% rating can open the door to benefits like healthcare and additional support — so don’t underestimate the value of starting your claim.
2. Evidence Is Everything
The VA bases its decisions on evidence. That means your service records, medical documentation, and any private treatment notes can make or break your claim. The more clearly your paperwork connects your condition to your service, the stronger your case. Our team reviews every detail to ensure your evidence tells the full story — not just what’s in your military record, but what’s in your medical reality.
3. The C&P Exam Can Make or Break Your Claim
The Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is a critical step in the process. It’s not a medical treatment — it’s an evaluation meant to determine how your condition affects your life today. Come prepared. Be honest and specific about your symptoms, even if it feels uncomfortable. This is your opportunity to make sure the examiner understands the true impact your service-connected conditions have on you.
4. You Can (and sometimes Should) Appeal a Decision
Many veterans receive an initial rating that doesn’t reflect the full extent of their disabilities. If that happens — don’t give up. You have options. Appeals can lead to higher ratings and back pay, but they require careful attention to timelines and documentation. That’s where expert guidance matters. Our team helps veterans navigate appeals strategically so they don’t leave any benefits on the table.
5. You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
The VA system isn’t easy to navigate — and you shouldn’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re filing your first claim, reopening a past one, or appealing a decision, professional support can make a real difference. At United Veteran, we help you understand the process, gather strong evidence, and advocate for the rating you deserve. Because when you’ve served your country, you deserve a team that serves you just as faithfully.
Final Thought: Getting the right VA disability rating isn’t just about numbers — it’s about your quality of life, your peace of mind, and your future stability. Don’t wait to get started. The sooner you begin, the sooner you can secure the benefits you’ve earned.