With the summer of 2024 in view, quite a number of the retirement and social security benefits interested members are in search of sources of income. For veterans facing a VA disability rating of 70%, it is possible to boost the earnings to 10% with the proper approach to attaining a generalized % VA disability rating of 100%. It is time to explain more about VA disability ratings and find out what tactics are available for veterans to boost their awards.
Understanding VA Disability Ratings
VA disability ratings are central to the veterans. These disability ratings define the compensation a veteran is eligible for within the Department of Veterans Affairs, depending on his or her service-connected disabilities.
Every disability claimed is given a percentage number ranging between 0% and 100% by the VA in order to show the level of disability and its effects on the life of a disabled person. For many veterans, the disability rings true to an average of five and may even bear a likelihood of experiencing two or more reconciled disabilities—seven conditions per veteran.
The veterans with a 70 percent VA disability rating are paid $1,716.28 monthly, those with an 85-89% rating receive about $3,628 monthly, and those with a 100% rating receive much more at $3,737.85 on average.
Thus, based on such a significant discrepancy, the veterans who have a 70 percent rating, for instance, may try to pursue means to raise the rating, which will consequently contribute to the enhancement of their monthly compensation and overall income. Further, veterans receiving special monthly compensation (SMC) or having dependents will be able to receive checks even bigger.
Strategies to Increase Your VA Disability Rating
The following keys could help you to receive more money:
- Adding Additional Conditions: In the following section, veterans can easily increase their VA disability rating by adding other conditions to their claim. Secondary claims can also be made, especially as veterans grow old and as they acquire other illnesses that are service-related. However, it is relatively tricky to secure a combined rating of 100% through additional conditions alone because the weight of each condition progressively decreases with its level.
- Appealing Current Ratings: Veterans unsatisfied with their current ratings can seek reconsideration through options such as requesting a review from the higher rating officials, filing a supplemental claim, or appealing to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. A VA-accredited disability attorney can assist in consulting and deciding the best appeals process.
- Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU): Veterans with a 70% rating are eligible for TDIU if they cannot work competitively because of their disabilities. TDIU is equal to a 100 percent evaluation, and it can fill the gap of 70 percent to 100 percent without listing additional conditions.
The Impact on Social Security Benefits
It is relevant to elevate VA disability benefits since they may affect the retirees’ income generally, including Social Security ones. If there is a possibility that VA disability benefits will be raised to up to 10% more, then it would mean that retirees will be able to acquire a pretty good income after retirement, thus ensuring that they can quickly meet all their basic needs and wants.
Fiscally, a jump from a VA disability rating of 70% to 100% often means an even more significant boost in benefits percentage to the veteran. Decisions that should be considered include increasing the conditions, appealing current ratings, or examining the chances for TDIU benefits, in which case veterans may see an increase in their income by up to 10% and even more. It could be a good idea to start planning on how to elevate your VA disability rating and be able to get improved Social Security benefits as one prepares for this summer to look forward to a more enjoyable retirement era.
