Achieving a 100% VA disability rating is a significant milestone for many veterans, as it provides the highest level of monthly compensation and access to a wide range of additional benefits. However, veterans who reach this rating may not be fully aware of the special benefits and entitlements available to them. Moreover, for some veterans, even a 100% rating may not be enough to cover the full extent of their disabilities, making it important to explore options such as Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) and Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). This article explains how veterans can unlock additional benefits once they’ve achieved a 100% rating, and why some veterans may qualify for even more compensation.
What a 100% VA Disability Rating Means
A 100% VA disability rating represents the highest level of disability compensation the VA offers. Veterans who receive this rating have conditions that, combined, are considered fully disabling, preventing them from engaging in substantial gainful activity. Some of the benefits that come with a 100% rating include:
•Monthly compensation: Veterans with a 100% rating receive the maximum monthly payment.
•Healthcare benefits: Priority Group 1 access to VA healthcare, meaning free medical care and medications.
•Education benefits: Eligibility for programs such as Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA).
•Housing benefits: Access to the VA Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) program, which provides grants to modify or build a home to accommodate a veteran’s disabilities.
•Travel benefits: Eligibility for VA travel reimbursement for attending VA medical appointments.
•State and local benefits: Many states offer additional benefits to veterans rated at 100%, including tax breaks, free hunting and fishing licenses, and reduced tuition for dependents.
However, there are additional benefits available for veterans whose disabilities present more specific challenges, even beyond the 100% rating.
Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU)
For veterans who are not rated at 100% but whose disabilities prevent them from working, Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) is an alternative path to receiving full compensation. Veterans who qualify for TDIU receive compensation at the 100% disability rate, even if their combined rating is lower than 100%.
Veterans may qualify for TDIU if:
•They have one service-connected disability rated at 60% or higher, or
•They have multiple service-connected disabilities with a combined rating of 70% or higher, with one condition rated at least 40%.
To apply for TDIU, veterans need to show that their service-connected disabilities prevent them from securing or maintaining substantial gainful employment. Veterans Valor helps veterans gather the necessary evidence, such as medical records and employment history, to support their TDIU claims.
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
Once a veteran reaches a 100% disability rating, they may be eligible for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). SMC is an additional benefit the VA provides to veterans with certain disabilities that require special assistance or significantly impact their quality of life. SMC is often referred to as “aid and attendance” because it is available to veterans who require the aid of another person to perform daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
Veterans may qualify for SMC if they:
•Are housebound or require regular aid and attendance.
•Have the loss of use of specific limbs or organs, such as a hand, foot, or vision.
•Have multiple disabilities that each qualify for a 100% rating (e.g., paraplegia with the loss of bladder and bowel control).
There are multiple levels of SMC, and the amount of compensation increases depending on the severity of the veteran’s condition. For example, veterans who need full-time care may qualify for SMC (R2), one of the highest levels of compensation the VA offers.
Exploring Benefits Beyond the 100% Rating
Veterans who achieve a 100% rating should explore additional benefits that may apply to their specific needs. Some of these benefits include:
1. Dependents’ Benefits
Veterans with a 100% disability rating may be eligible to receive additional compensation for their dependents, including a spouse, children, and dependent parents. This can provide vital financial support for families of disabled veterans.
2. Dental Care
Veterans with a 100% rating are eligible for comprehensive VA dental care, which includes preventive, restorative, and emergency dental services. This is a significant benefit, as dental care is often excluded for veterans with lower disability ratings.
3. Concurrent Receipt of VA Disability and Military Retirement Pay
Veterans who are retired from the military and have a 100% disability rating may qualify for Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP), which allows them to receive both their full VA disability benefits and their military retirement pay without any offset.
4. Waiving the VA Funding Fee
Veterans with a 100% disability rating are exempt from paying the VA funding fee when using the VA loan program to buy or refinance a home. This can save veterans thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
5. Federal Employment Preferences
Veterans with a 100% disability rating are eligible for 10-point veterans’ preference in federal employment hiring, giving them a significant advantage when applying for federal jobs.
Maximizing the 100% Rating and Beyond
Veterans who are rated at 100% or believe they qualify for additional benefits beyond the standard 100% rating should consider the following strategies:
1. Stay Up-to-Date on Medical Conditions
It’s important to continue regular medical check-ups, even after receiving a 100% rating, as some conditions may worsen over time. Veterans may qualify for higher levels of SMC or other additional benefits if their disabilities progress.
2. File for Secondary Conditions
Many veterans develop secondary conditions as a result of their service-connected disabilities. For example, a veteran with a 100% rating for PTSD may later develop sleep apnea, which could qualify as a secondary condition. Filing secondary claims can help increase the overall compensation or lead to eligibility for additional benefits.
3. Request a Re-Evaluation When Necessary
If a veteran’s condition worsens, they should request a re-evaluation from the VA to update their disability rating and determine if additional benefits, such as SMC, apply. Veterans Valor can help veterans prepare for re-evaluations by ensuring all medical records and evidence are up to date.
Conclusion
A 100% VA disability rating is a significant achievement that unlocks a range of benefits designed to support veterans and their families. However, veterans should be aware that there are often additional benefits available beyond the basic 100% rating, especially if they have special needs or secondary conditions. Veterans Valor is committed to helping veterans maximize their benefits, whether through TDIU, SMC, or other opportunities for additional compensation. By understanding the full scope of benefits available, veterans can ensure they receive the support they deserve for their service.
