VA Claims Glossary

Common terms used in VA disability claims, decision reviews, and benefits. Each definition is sourced from official VA.gov pages.

Note: These are general definitions. Your specific situation may involve additional factors. For personalized guidance, contact an accredited representative.

14 more terms are off the page while we re-check the wording against VA.gov.

Disability Rating

A percentage (from 0% to 100%, in 10% increments) that VA assigns to represent how severe your service-connected disability is. Higher ratings generally mean higher monthly compensation. If you have multiple disabilities, VA uses a combined rating formula (not simple addition).

Official source: VA disability rating

"We assign you a disability rating based on the severity of your service-connected condition."

https://www.va.gov/disability/about-disability-ratings/
Verified: 2026-11-07