20% VA Disability Ratings and Benefits Explained

Your VA disability rating determines the benefits you will receive–both the amount of your monthly monetary benefit and the types of benefits you are eligible for. That’s one reason it’s important to work with an experienced VA disability benefits advocate when you file a claim. A knowledgeable advocate can help ensure that you provide the documentation the VA will need to assign you the right rating.

A veteran’s disability rating may be as low as 0%, or as high as 100%. However, VA disability ratings are only assigned in multiples of 10.

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Benefits at a 20% VA Disability Rating

Monetary Benefits

In 2024, a veteran rated 20% disabled receives $338.49/month in monetary benefits. At this level, the veteran is not entitled to any additional compensation for dependents. However, in certain limited circumstances they may be eligible for special monthly compensation (SMC) in addition to the regular monthly benefit.

Healthcare Benefits

A veteran with a VA disability rating of 20%–or any other rating of at least 0% but less than 50%–receives VA healthcare services for the service-connected condition or conditions. Broader healthcare services are available at or above a 50% rating. Some lower-income veterans may be eligible for more comprehensive medical care even at lower disability ratings.

Other Benefits for Disabled Veterans

However, A veteran with a 20% VA disability rating is also eligible for a variety of other benefits. These include:

Hiring preference for many federal jobs
Career and job training services through the VA’s Vocational Readiness & Employment program
Burial and plot allowance
Waiver of the VA funding fee for a home loan
Commissary and Exchange privileges

Call 1-888-373-4722 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

Can a VA Disability Rating Change?

VA disability ratings can change. For example, the VA may review your condition and determine that you have improved or worsened, meaning that your rating would be adjusted to match your current circumstances. A veteran may also seek a higher disability rating by:

Appealing the VA’s disability rating determination
Requesting an increased rating if the condition has worsened
File a claim for an additional or secondary service-connected condition

In some cases, a veteran may also pursue a classification of totally disabled due to individual unemployment (TDIU). However, it is unusual for this classification to be assigned to a veteran with a 20% disability rating–the standard process requires a rating of at least 60% for a single condition or a combined rating of at least 70%.

Get Help With Your VA Disability Claim

The best and most efficient way to get the VA disability rating you deserve is to submit the strongest, best-documented claim possible. An experienced disability benefits advocate can be your best resource. To learn more, call 888-373-4722 right now or fill out our contact form.

Call 1-888-373-4722 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form