Teresa Asked,
If I’m rated at 100% disability does this mean that I’m totally and permanently disabled?
Hey Teresa,
The short answer to your question that I found from a lawyer group who has a ton of information on this topic is yes and no.
Yes, you are considered totally disabled when you reach 100% disability rating through the VA since you cannot be rated any higher than 100 on their scale.
No, you are not considered permanently disabled unless the VA determines that your disability is a permanent condition. In cases where the disability is not considered permanent the VA will conduct reviews to lower your rating.
To ready the full list of how each case differs in forms of disability rating and compensation please consider viewing the article: CCK Law “Types of VA Disabilities”. A small popup window will open asking if you’d like help, clicking “Yes” will put you in contact with a service representative, clicking “No” will minimize the window so you can read the article.
A few key takeaways are:
- If your 100% rating lasts for 20 years the VA will make a decision on whether your condition can be considered permanent if it cannot be subjected to reduction except in cases where they believe fraud occurred.
- If you 100% disability rating is less than 20 years the VA can reduce your rating if your condition is showing improvement.
There is a much more extensive list of details on their website including a link to a VA disability calculator, other benefits available to 100% disabled veterans, and more. I would recommend giving them a look even though the article might be a little outdated since it mentions being able to use the Exchange as a benefit but that was opened to all Veterans a couple of years ago.
Hope that helps,
-Specialist Carroll-
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