Glossary
Disability Rating
A percentage (0–100%) VA assigns to each service-connected condition that determines compensation and, in part, VHA Priority Group.
Also known as: VA rating, combined rating
Quick answer
VA evaluates each service-connected condition on a scale from 0% to 100% in 10% increments. Multiple ratings are combined using VA math (not simple addition) into a single combined rating. The rating drives monthly disability compensation from VBA and influences VHA Priority Group placement.
Why it matters
Higher ratings mean higher monthly compensation and, in many cases, higher VHA Priority Group placement with lower copays.
Why this matters at age 65
Disability rating is independent of Medicare and TFL eligibility. But it can change VA pharmacy copays and access — affecting decisions about where to fill prescriptions after 65.
When you'll encounter it
VA claims, appeals, ratings reviews, and Priority Group recalculations.
Impact on Medicare
None.
Impact on TRICARE For Life
None.
VA Healthcare considerations
A 50% or higher combined rating typically places the veteran in Priority Group 1 (with TDIU) or Group 3 — and changes the no-copay benefits available.
Common misconceptions
- "My ratings add up directly." — VA uses combined-ratings math; a 50% + 30% rating combines to 65% rounded to 70%, not 80%.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not appealing a low rating when condition worsens.
- Forgetting to update VHA Priority Group after a rating increase.
What should I do?
- 1Review your combined rating in eBenefits or VA.gov annually.
- 2File for a rating increase when symptoms worsen.
- 3After any rating change, confirm with VA that your Priority Group has been recalculated.
Continue learning
— suggested by the knowledge graph- CHAMPVAA VA health benefit for certain spouses, children, and survivors of permanently and totally disabled or deceased veterans — separate from TRICARE and TFL.
- Emergency Care Outside the VAVA may reimburse emergency care at a non-VA facility under specific eligibility, timing, and notification rules — but coverage is never automatic.
- Foreign Medical Program (FMP)A VA program that reimburses veterans living or traveling abroad for medical care related to service-connected conditions.
- Non-VA CareAny care delivered outside a VA facility — whether through VA Community Care, Medicare + TFL, or an MA plan.
- VA BenefitsThe full set of benefits administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs — healthcare (VHA), disability compensation and pensions (VBA), and burial/memorial benefits (NCA).
- VA Community CareA VA program that pays approved non-VA providers to deliver care when VA cannot — under specific eligibility and pre-authorization rules.
- VA FacilityA medical facility operated by the Veterans Health Administration — VA medical centers, CBOCs, vet centers, and outpatient clinics.
- What are VA priority groups and which one am I in?Groups 1–8, ranked by service-connected disability rating, income, and special status. Group 1 (50%+ SC disability) has the best access and lowest costs; Group 8 has the most restrictions.
- Can I still use the VA after I have Medicare and TFL?Yes. VA is a separate system. Using VA doesn't end Medicare or TFL, and TFL doesn't pay VA bills. Many veterans use all three — VA for service-connected care, Medicare + TFL for civilian care.
- Should I use the VA pharmacy or TRICARE Pharmacy?You can use both. VA fills prescriptions written by VA providers; TRICARE Pharmacy fills prescriptions written by any provider. Use whichever is cheaper and more convenient for each medication.
- Doesn't VA healthcare replace my need for Medicare Part B?No. VA does not satisfy the Medicare Part B requirement for TFL, and VA does not pay for civilian care unless authorized through Community Care. Skipping Part B costs you TFL.
- Can I use VA and Medicare for the same condition?Yes, but not at the same visit. You can use VA for one visit and Medicare + TFL for another. The two systems don't share billing.
Related glossary terms
Related Official Resources
Continue learning straight from the source. Every link below goes to an official government or DoD resource.
Last reviewed January 2026 against the 2026 Medicare & You and TRICARE For Life handbooks.