Glossary
Plain-language definitions for every term you will encounter. Browse by letter or filter by category.
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1
A
Aggravation
The permanent worsening of a pre-existing condition due to military service or a service-connected disability.
Disability ClaimsAid and Attendance
An additional monthly benefit for veterans or survivors who need help with daily activities like bathing, eating, or dressing.
VA BenefitsAgent Orange
A toxic herbicide used during the Vietnam War linked to presumptive conditions including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Disability ClaimsAccredited Agent
An individual approved by the VA to help veterans prepare and file claims, usually for a fee after a successful outcome.
VA BenefitsApportionment
A portion of a veteran's VA compensation redirected to a dependent spouse or child who is not living with the veteran.
VA BenefitsAppeals Modernization Act
The 2019 law that replaced the legacy appeals system with three review lanes: supplemental claim, HLR, and board appeal.
Appeals ProcessAccredited Attorney
A lawyer authorized by the VA to represent veterans in claims and appeals, typically charging fees after a successful outcome.
VA BenefitsAnxiety Disorder
A mental health condition rated under the same criteria as PTSD based on occupational and social impairment levels.
Disability ClaimsAnalogous Rating
A rating assigned using a closely related diagnostic code when a veteran's condition does not have its own specific code.
Disability ClaimsAccrued Benefits
Unpaid VA benefits owed to a veteran at the time of death, which may be paid to eligible survivors.
VA BenefitsAdaptive Equipment
Devices and modifications provided by the VA to help disabled veterans drive vehicles or perform daily activities.
VA BenefitsAutomobile Grant
A one-time VA grant helping veterans with qualifying disabilities purchase or modify a vehicle for accessibility.
VA BenefitsActive Duty for Training
A period of training for Guard and Reserve members that can establish service connection for injuries but not diseases.
VA BenefitsAmerican Legion
A major VSO providing free claims filing assistance, transition support, and advocacy for veterans and their families.
VA BenefitsAMVETS
American Veterans, a VSO that provides free claims assistance, career services, and community support to all veterans.
VA BenefitsApprenticeship
A GI Bill benefit covering veteran participation in registered apprenticeship programs with decreasing monthly payments.
Education BenefitsAncillary Benefits
Additional benefits that flow from a disability rating, such as CHAMPVA, DEA, property tax exemptions, and commissary access.
VA BenefitsAnkle Condition
Ankle injuries evaluated based on range of motion limitation, rated from 0% to 40% depending on severity.
Disability ClaimsB
Bilateral Factor
An additional 10% boost applied when a veteran has disabilities affecting both arms, both legs, or paired skeletal muscles.
Disability ClaimsBuddy Letter
A written statement from a fellow service member, family member, or friend supporting a veteran's disability claim.
Disability ClaimsBenefit of the Doubt
A legal standard requiring the VA to rule in the veteran's favor when evidence for and against a claim is roughly equal.
Disability ClaimsBoard Appeal
An appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals where a Veterans Law Judge reviews the claim and issues a decision.
Appeals ProcessBoard of Veterans' Appeals
The VA body composed of Veterans Law Judges who review appealed claims and issue binding decisions.
Appeals ProcessBurn Pit Exposure
Toxic smoke exposure from open-air waste burning at military bases, now linked to respiratory illness and cancers under the PACT Act.
Disability ClaimsBack Condition
Lumbosacral strain or degenerative disc disease rated primarily on limitation of range of motion and pain.
Disability ClaimsBasic Allowance for Housing
A monthly housing stipend paid to Post-9/11 GI Bill students based on the ZIP code of their school campus.
Education BenefitsBurial Benefits
VA benefits covering burial expenses, headstones, and national cemetery interment for eligible veterans and some dependents.
VA BenefitsBladder Cancer
A cancer added to the Agent Orange presumptive list under the PACT Act for veterans with qualifying service.
Disability ClaimsBackpay
A lump-sum payment covering compensation owed from the effective date to the date the VA processed the decision.
VA BenefitsC
Combined Rating
The overall disability percentage calculated using VA math when a veteran has multiple service-connected conditions.
Disability ClaimsC&P Exam
A Compensation and Pension examination ordered by the VA to evaluate the nature and severity of a claimed disability.
Disability ClaimsClear and Unmistakable Error
A rare legal challenge asserting that a prior VA decision contained an obvious factual or legal error that changed the outcome.
Appeals ProcessCourt of Appeals for Veterans Claims
A federal court that reviews BVA decisions and can reverse, remand, or affirm the Board's findings.
Appeals ProcessCHAMPVA
A health insurance program for spouses and dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled or deceased.
VA HealthcareCertificate of Eligibility
A document from the VA confirming that a veteran meets the service requirements for a VA-backed home loan.
VA HousingCamp Lejeune
A Marine Corps base where contaminated water caused diseases now eligible for VA benefits and federal tort claims.
Disability ClaimsCurrent Diagnosis
A medical professional's confirmation that a veteran presently has the condition being claimed, required for service connection.
Disability ClaimsClaims Processor
A VA employee called a Rating Veterans Service Representative who reviews evidence and assigns disability ratings.
VA BenefitsChronic Fatigue Syndrome
A condition of persistent exhaustion recognized as a Gulf War presumptive illness and rated based on functional limitation.
Disability ClaimsCBOC
Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, a smaller VA facility providing primary care and mental health services closer to veterans.
VA HealthcareCommunity Care
VA-authorized care from private providers when the VA cannot provide timely or geographically accessible treatment.
VA HealthcareCaregiver Support
VA programs providing training, stipends, and respite care for family members caring for seriously injured veterans.
VA HealthcareConcession
The VA's acknowledgment that an in-service event or stressor occurred, which satisfies one element of service connection.
Disability ClaimsCombat Veteran
A veteran who engaged in combat with the enemy, receiving relaxed evidentiary standards for claims related to combat events.
Disability ClaimsCombat Action Badge
A military decoration that can serve as evidence of combat service to support PTSD and other disability claims.
Disability ClaimsClaim Development
The phase where the VA gathers evidence including service records, medical records, and exam results before making a decision.
Disability ClaimsClothing Allowance
An annual VA payment for veterans whose service-connected conditions or prosthetics cause unusual wear or damage to clothing.
VA BenefitsCopay Waiver
Exemption from VA healthcare copayments granted to veterans with service-connected conditions rated at 50% or higher.
VA HealthcareCharacter of Discharge
The type of military discharge a veteran received, which determines eligibility for most VA benefits and services.
VA BenefitsCompetency Determination
The VA's assessment of whether a veteran can manage their own financial affairs, affecting how benefits are paid.
VA BenefitsCommissary and Exchange
Shopping privileges at military stores available to veterans with service-connected disabilities or retired status.
VA BenefitsCHAMPVA Supplemental
Additional insurance that covers costs not paid by CHAMPVA, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for eligible dependents.
VA HealthcareCamp Lejeune Justice Act
Part of the PACT Act allowing people exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to file federal tort claims.
Disability ClaimsCervical Spine
Neck conditions rated based on range of motion, with additional ratings possible for associated nerve problems.
Disability ClaimsChapter 35 Benefits
Another name for DEA benefits providing education assistance to dependents of permanently and totally disabled veterans.
Education BenefitsConcurrent Retirement and Disability Pay
A program allowing military retirees with 50% or higher VA disability to receive both full retirement and disability pay.
VA BenefitsCombat Related Special Compensation
Tax-free payments for military retirees whose disabilities are combat-related, available at any qualifying disability level.
VA BenefitsD
Disability Rating
A percentage assigned by the VA that reflects the severity of a service-connected condition, ranging from 0% to 100%.
Disability ClaimsDuty to Assist
The VA's legal obligation to help veterans gather evidence needed to support their claims before making a decision.
Disability ClaimsDecision Review Officer
A senior VA employee who conducts higher-level reviews and can overturn prior rating decisions based on existing evidence.
Appeals ProcessDiagnostic Code
A four-digit code in the VASRD that identifies a specific condition and the rating criteria used to evaluate it.
Disability ClaimsDEA
Dependents' Educational Assistance provides education benefits to dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled.
Education BenefitsDIC
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation is a tax-free monthly payment to surviving spouses and dependents of deceased veterans.
VA BenefitsDD-214
The Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, the key document proving military service for all VA benefits.
VA BenefitsDisability Benefits Questionnaire
A standardized medical form that documents the severity of a condition and can be completed by a private physician.
Disability ClaimsDirect Review
A Board appeal docket where a Veterans Law Judge reviews existing evidence without a hearing or new evidence submission.
Appeals ProcessDuty MOS
Military Occupational Specialty code that identifies a service member's job, often used to establish in-service events for claims.
Disability ClaimsDeferred Rating
A temporary status indicating the VA needs more evidence or development before deciding on a specific claimed condition.
Disability ClaimsDuty to Notify
The VA's obligation to inform veterans about what evidence is needed and what the VA will obtain on their behalf.
Disability ClaimsDirect Service Connection
A claim based on evidence that a condition began during service or was directly caused by a specific in-service event.
Disability ClaimsDiabetes Mellitus Type 2
A metabolic disease presumptively connected to Agent Orange exposure, rated based on treatment requirements and complications.
Disability ClaimsDecision Notification
The final phase where the VA sends the veteran a letter explaining the rating decision, effective date, and payment amount.
Disability ClaimsDependency Claim
A request to add a spouse, child, or dependent parent to a veteran's compensation for additional monthly payments.
VA BenefitsDischarge Upgrade
A review process where veterans can request a change to an other-than-honorable discharge to qualify for VA benefits.
VA BenefitsDeLuca Factors
Additional functional limitations from pain, fatigue, weakness, and flare-ups that must be considered when rating joint conditions.
Disability ClaimsDAV
Disabled American Veterans, a major VSO that provides free claims assistance and advocacy for disabled veterans.
VA BenefitsDuty Station
The military base or location where a service member was assigned, relevant for establishing location-based exposures.
Disability ClaimsE
Effective Date
The date from which the VA begins paying compensation, typically the date of the claim or the day after separation.
Disability ClaimseBenefits
A legacy VA web portal being phased out where veterans could view disability ratings, payment history, and manage benefits.
VA BenefitsExtraschedular Rating
A rating above the schedular maximum granted when a condition causes impairment not adequately captured by standard criteria.
Disability ClaimsEvidence Submission
A Board appeal docket allowing veterans to submit additional evidence within 90 days without a hearing.
Appeals ProcessEdith Nourse Rogers Scholarship
The official name of the STEM Scholarship providing up to nine additional months of GI Bill benefits for STEM students.
Education BenefitsEmployer Verification
VA Form 21-4192 sent to past employers to verify a veteran's work history and reasons for leaving as part of a TDIU claim.
Veteran EmploymentErectile Dysfunction
A condition commonly claimed as secondary to medications or conditions like PTSD and diabetes, rated at 0% with SMC-K.
Disability ClaimsF
Fully Developed Claim
A claim submitted with all supporting evidence included upfront, which typically results in faster processing by the VA.
Disability ClaimsFunding Fee
A one-time fee charged on VA home loans that helps offset the cost of the program to taxpayers, waived for disabled veterans.
VA HousingFiduciary
A person or entity appointed by the VA to manage benefits payments for a veteran who is unable to handle their own finances.
VA BenefitsFavorable Findings
Established facts from a prior VA decision that cannot be reversed in a subsequent review, protecting granted elements.
Appeals ProcessFibromyalgia
A chronic pain condition with widespread musculoskeletal symptoms recognized as a Gulf War presumptive illness.
Disability ClaimsFlat Feet
Pes planus is a common foot condition among veterans rated based on severity of symptoms and functional impairment.
Disability ClaimsFlare-Up
A temporary worsening of symptoms that must be documented and considered during C&P exams for accurate disability ratings.
Disability ClaimsFederal Register
The official publication where proposed and final VA rating changes and new presumptive conditions are announced.
Disability ClaimsForeign Medical Program
A VA program that reimburses veterans living abroad for treatment of their service-connected conditions.
VA HealthcareFry Scholarship
Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for children and spouses of service members who died in the line of duty after September 10, 2001.
Education BenefitsG
GI Bill
A broad term for federal education benefits that help veterans and eligible dependents pay for college, training, or certifications.
Education BenefitsGulf War Illness
A group of chronic unexplained symptoms affecting veterans who served in the Southwest Asia theater of operations.
Disability ClaimsGERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease frequently claimed as secondary to medications taken for other service-connected conditions.
Disability ClaimsGeneral Discharge
A discharge under honorable conditions that still qualifies the veteran for most VA benefits including healthcare and compensation.
VA BenefitsGuard and Reserve Benefits
VA benefits available to National Guard and Reserve members based on qualifying periods of active duty service.
VA BenefitsGeriatric Care
VA programs providing specialized medical care, adult day care, and home-based services for aging veterans.
VA HealthcareH
Higher Level Review
A review by a senior VA adjudicator who examines the existing evidence for errors without accepting new evidence.
Appeals ProcessHousebound
An added benefit for veterans who are substantially confined to their home due to permanent service-connected disabilities.
VA BenefitsHearing Request
A Board appeal docket where the veteran can present testimony and new evidence before a Veterans Law Judge.
Appeals ProcessHearing Loss
Diminished hearing ability often caused by military noise exposure, rated using puretone audiometry and speech discrimination scores.
Disability ClaimsHerbicide Exposure
Contact with tactical herbicides like Agent Orange during service, which triggers presumptive service connection for listed diseases.
Disability ClaimsHypertension
High blood pressure added as a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure under the PACT Act.
Disability ClaimsHonorable Discharge
The highest level of discharge that qualifies a veteran for the full range of VA benefits and services.
VA BenefitsHUD-VASH
A program combining Housing and Urban Development vouchers with VA case management to house homeless veterans.
VA HousingI
Intent to File
A notification to the VA that preserves an earlier effective date, giving the veteran up to one year to submit the full claim.
Disability ClaimsIRRRL
The Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan lets veterans refinance an existing VA loan to get a lower interest rate quickly.
VA HousingIndependent Medical Opinion
A detailed medical report from a qualified doctor providing an expert opinion on the link between a condition and service.
Disability ClaimsIn-Service Event
An injury, illness, or incident that occurred during military service and serves as the basis for a disability claim.
Disability ClaimsIncrease Claim
A request for a higher disability rating when a service-connected condition has worsened since the last evaluation.
Disability ClaimsInformal Conference
A phone call with a senior reviewer during a Higher-Level Review where the veteran can highlight errors in the decision.
Appeals ProcessIrritable Bowel Syndrome
A digestive disorder recognized as a Gulf War presumptive condition, rated at 0%, 10%, or 30% based on symptom severity.
Disability ClaimsIschemic Heart Disease
A heart condition presumptively linked to Agent Orange exposure, covering coronary artery disease and related diagnoses.
Disability ClaimsIndividual Unemployability
Another name for TDIU, the benefit paying at the 100% rate when disabilities prevent a veteran from holding a job.
Veteran EmploymentInactive Duty for Training
Weekend drill periods for Guard and Reserve members that only establish service connection for injuries, not diseases.
VA BenefitsJ
K
L
Lay Evidence
Non-expert testimony or statements from the veteran or others describing symptoms, events, or observations related to a claim.
Disability ClaimsLegacy Appeal
The older VA appeals process used before February 2019, which involved longer wait times and fewer options for review.
Appeals ProcessM
Montgomery GI Bill
An older education benefit requiring a $1,200 pay reduction during service that provides a fixed monthly payment for schooling.
Education BenefitsMilitary Sexual Trauma
Sexual assault or harassment experienced during military service that can form the basis of a VA disability claim.
Disability ClaimsMarginal Employment
Employment earning below the poverty threshold, which does not disqualify a veteran from receiving TDIU benefits.
Veteran EmploymentMigraines
Recurring severe headaches rated at 0%, 10%, 30%, or 50% based on frequency and severity of prostrating attacks.
Disability ClaimsMajor Depressive Disorder
A mood disorder rated under the general mental health rating formula based on severity of occupational and social impairment.
Disability ClaimsMental Health Rating
All mental health conditions use the same rating criteria with levels at 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100%.
Disability ClaimsMISSION Act
The 2018 law expanding veterans' access to community care providers when VA wait times or distances exceed set standards.
VA HealthcareMonoclonal Gammopathy
A blood condition added to the Agent Orange presumptive list under the PACT Act for exposed veterans.
Disability ClaimsMedal of Honor Pension
A special monthly pension paid to recipients of the Medal of Honor in addition to any other VA or military benefits.
VA BenefitsN
Nexus Letter
A medical opinion from a qualified professional linking a veteran's current condition to their military service.
Disability ClaimsNotice of Disagreement
A formal filing that initiates the appeals process after a veteran receives an unfavorable rating decision from the VA.
Appeals ProcessNative American Direct Loan
A VA loan program providing direct home loans to Native American veterans buying homes on federal trust land.
VA HousingNational Cemetery
A federal cemetery where eligible veterans and dependents can be buried at no cost with military honors.
VA BenefitsNehmer Class Member
A Vietnam veteran or survivor eligible for retroactive benefits under the Nehmer settlement for Agent Orange presumptive diseases.
Disability ClaimsNet Worth Limit
The maximum asset threshold a veteran can have to qualify for VA pension benefits, adjusted annually for inflation.
VA BenefitsO
Other Than Honorable Discharge
A discharge that may bar VA benefits unless the veteran obtains a character of discharge determination or upgrade.
VA BenefitsOn-the-Job Training
A GI Bill benefit that pays veterans while they learn a trade through hands-on work experience with an approved employer.
Education BenefitsP
Presumptive Condition
A condition the VA automatically links to service based on when and where a veteran served, bypassing the need for a nexus.
Disability ClaimsPost-9/11 GI Bill
Education benefits for veterans who served after September 10, 2001, covering tuition, housing, and a book stipend.
Education BenefitsPACT Act
The 2022 law expanding VA benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances during service.
Disability ClaimsPTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition caused by traumatic events and one of the most common VA claims.
Disability ClaimsProtected Rating
A disability rating that cannot be reduced because it has been in effect for 20 or more continuous years.
Disability ClaimsProposed Reduction
A formal notice giving the veteran 60 days to submit evidence or request a hearing before the VA reduces a rating.
Disability ClaimsPower of Attorney
A designation granting a VSO, agent, or attorney permission to act on a veteran's behalf in VA claims matters.
VA BenefitsPeripheral Neuropathy
Nerve damage in the hands or feet that is a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure and diabetes.
Disability ClaimsPyramiding
The prohibited practice of rating the same symptoms under multiple diagnostic codes, which the VA does not allow.
Disability ClaimsPresumptive Service Connection
Automatic service connection granted based on when and where a veteran served, without requiring individual proof of nexus.
Disability ClaimsPriority Group
One of eight categories that determine a veteran's eligibility for VA healthcare and any copay requirements.
VA HealthcarePresidential Memorial Certificate
A certificate signed by the President honoring the memory of a deceased veteran, available to eligible family members.
VA BenefitsProstate Cancer
A cancer presumptively linked to Agent Orange exposure, rated at 100% during active treatment and re-evaluated after.
Disability ClaimsPersonal Assault PTSD
A PTSD claim based on in-service personal assault, which has relaxed evidentiary standards and accepts behavioral markers.
Disability ClaimsPurple Heart
A military decoration awarded for wounds sustained in combat, which provides presumptive evidence of in-service injury.
Disability ClaimsPreparation for Decision
The claim status phase indicating all evidence has been gathered and the claim is being reviewed for a final decision.
Disability ClaimsProsthetics
Artificial limbs and other assistive devices provided by the VA at no cost to veterans with service-connected needs.
VA HealthcareProperty Tax Exemption
A state-level benefit reducing or eliminating property taxes for veterans with qualifying disability ratings.
VA HousingPresumption of Soundness
The legal principle that a veteran was in sound condition at enlistment unless a condition was noted on the entrance exam.
Disability ClaimsPre-existing Condition
A medical condition that existed before military service, which can still be compensated if aggravated beyond natural progression.
Disability ClaimsPlantar Fasciitis
Heel pain from inflammation of the plantar fascia, commonly claimed by veterans due to military boots and marching.
Disability ClaimsR
Rating Decision
The official VA document that grants or denies service connection and assigns a disability percentage for each claimed condition.
Appeals ProcessRemand
A decision by the BVA or CAVC sending a claim back to a lower level for additional development or correction of errors.
Appeals ProcessRating Reduction
A decrease in disability percentage proposed by the VA when medical evidence suggests a condition has improved.
Disability ClaimsRegional Office
A local VA office responsible for processing disability claims, conducting hearings, and administering benefits in its area.
VA BenefitsRVSR
Rating Veterans Service Representative, the VA adjudicator who evaluates medical evidence and assigns disability percentages.
VA BenefitsRadiculopathy
Nerve pain radiating from the spine into extremities, often claimed as secondary to a service-connected back condition.
Disability ClaimsRadiation Exposure
Exposure to ionizing radiation during military service that creates presumptive eligibility for certain cancers and conditions.
Disability ClaimsRestoration of Entitlement
The process of restoring VA loan entitlement after a previous VA loan has been paid off and the property sold.
VA HousingRange of Motion
A measurement of joint flexibility used during C&P exams to determine ratings for musculoskeletal conditions.
Disability ClaimsRespite Care
Temporary relief care provided by the VA so that a veteran's primary caregiver can take a break.
VA HealthcareRhinitis
Inflammation of the nasal passages frequently claimed as secondary to sinusitis or due to environmental exposures.
Disability ClaimsS
Service Connection
The VA's determination that a disability is related to military service, which is required before any compensation can be paid.
Disability ClaimsSpecial Monthly Compensation
Additional compensation paid to veterans with severe disabilities such as loss of use of a limb or need for regular aid and attendance.
Disability ClaimsSecondary Condition
A disability caused or worsened by an already service-connected condition, which can also receive compensation.
Disability ClaimsSupplemental Claim
A review lane under AMA where veterans submit new and relevant evidence to support a previously denied claim.
Appeals ProcessStatement of the Case
A document issued by the VA that explains the evidence, laws, and reasoning behind a denial under the legacy appeals system.
Appeals ProcessStaged Rating
Different disability percentages assigned for distinct time periods when the severity of a condition has changed over time.
Disability ClaimsSAH Grant
The Specially Adapted Housing grant provides funds to build or modify a home for veterans with certain severe disabilities.
VA HousingSGLI
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance provides low-cost life insurance coverage to active duty and reserve service members.
VA BenefitsService Treatment Records
Medical records created during military service that document injuries, illnesses, and treatments received while on active duty.
Disability ClaimsSF-180
The form used to request military service records, including medical records, from the National Personnel Records Center.
VA BenefitsSchedular Rating
A disability rating assigned based on the standard criteria listed in the VASRD for a specific diagnostic code.
Disability ClaimsSheltered Employment
A work environment with special accommodations for disability, which does not count against TDIU eligibility.
Veteran EmploymentSleep Apnea
A condition causing interrupted breathing during sleep, rated at 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100% depending on treatment and severity.
Disability ClaimsSTEM Scholarship
An extension of Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for veterans pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or math.
Education BenefitsSpecially Adapted Housing
Grants to help veterans with severe service-connected disabilities purchase or modify homes for accessibility.
VA HousingSpecial Housing Adaptation
A grant for veterans with specific disabilities like blindness or loss of hands to modify an existing home.
VA HousingSurvivors Pension
A needs-based benefit for unremarried surviving spouses and dependent children of deceased wartime veterans with limited income.
VA BenefitsSubstitution
The process allowing an eligible survivor to continue a deceased veteran's pending claim or appeal to completion.
Appeals ProcessStressor Letter
A veteran's written account of traumatic events during service used to support a PTSD or mental health claim.
Disability ClaimsScars Rating
Disability ratings for scars based on size, location, stability, pain, and whether they limit function of the affected area.
Disability ClaimsSpecial Adapted Housing Grant
A VA grant of up to $109,986 for veterans with specific service-connected disabilities to build an accessible home.
VA HousingState Veterans Benefits
Additional benefits provided by individual states including property tax exemptions, education waivers, and license plates.
VA BenefitsSSVF
Supportive Services for Veteran Families provides rapid re-housing and prevention services to low-income veteran families.
VA HousingSMC-K
Special Monthly Compensation level K for loss of use of a creative organ, one hand, one foot, or both buttocks.
Disability ClaimsSMC-S
Special Monthly Compensation level S for a single 100% rated condition plus additional conditions totaling 60% or more.
Disability ClaimsSMC-L
Special Monthly Compensation level L for veterans needing regular aid and attendance of another person due to disability.
Disability ClaimsSpace-A Travel
Free or low-cost flights on military aircraft available to eligible veterans on a space-available basis.
VA BenefitsSinusitis
Chronic inflammation of the sinuses commonly claimed by veterans exposed to burn pits and other airborne hazards.
Disability ClaimsShoulder Condition
Shoulder injuries rated based on range of motion limitation, with ratings differing for dominant and non-dominant arms.
Disability ClaimsT
TDIU
Allows veterans rated below 100% to get full compensation when unable to work due to service-connected disabilities.
Disability ClaimsTotal Disability Based on Individual Unemployability
The full name for TDIU, which pays at the 100% rate when service-connected disabilities prevent gainful employment.
Disability ClaimsTinnitus
Ringing or buzzing in the ears commonly caused by noise exposure during military service, rated at a maximum of 10%.
Disability ClaimsTraumatic Brain Injury
Brain damage from a blow or jolt to the head during service, evaluated across multiple areas of cognitive and physical function.
Disability ClaimsTelehealth
Virtual healthcare services offered by the VA allowing veterans to attend medical appointments from home via video or phone.
VA HealthcareTransfer of GI Bill
The ability of service members to transfer unused Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to a spouse or dependent children.
Education BenefitsTemporary Residence Adaptation
A grant allowing eligible veterans to modify a family member's home where they are temporarily residing.
VA HousingTSGLI
Traumatic Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance provides payments for severe injuries like amputations and traumatic brain injuries.
VA BenefitsToxic Exposure Screening
A required screening during VA healthcare visits under the PACT Act to identify veterans with potential toxic exposures.
VA HealthcareTravel Reimbursement
VA payment covering mileage costs for veterans traveling to VA medical appointments when they meet eligibility criteria.
VA HealthcareTransition Assistance Program
A mandatory program helping service members prepare for civilian life with job training, resume writing, and VA enrollment.
Veteran EmploymentToxic Exposure Fund
Funding established by the PACT Act to cover the cost of healthcare and benefits for toxic-exposed veterans.
VA BenefitsU
V
VA Form 21-526EZ
The primary application form used to file for disability compensation or increase an existing disability rating with the VA.
Disability ClaimsVASRD
The VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities, a regulatory table that maps medical conditions to specific disability percentages.
Disability ClaimsVA.gov
The primary VA website where veterans can file claims, check status, manage healthcare, and access all VA services online.
VA BenefitsVR&E
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, now called VET TEC, helps disabled veterans prepare for and find suitable jobs.
Veteran EmploymentVA Home Loan
A mortgage benefit allowing eligible veterans to buy a home with no down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates.
VA HousingVGLI
Veterans' Group Life Insurance allows veterans to convert their SGLI coverage to a renewable term policy after leaving service.
VA BenefitsVeterans Pension
A needs-based monthly benefit for wartime veterans who have limited income and are age 65 or older or permanently disabled.
VA BenefitsVeterans Service Organization
Nonprofit organizations like the DAV, VFW, and American Legion that provide free claims assistance to veterans.
VA BenefitsVA Math
The method the VA uses to calculate combined ratings, which considers remaining efficient body rather than simple addition.
Disability ClaimsVA Form 21-0966
The official form used to file an Intent to File, preserving an effective date while allowing time to gather evidence.
Disability ClaimsVA Form 20-0995
The Decision Review Request form used to file a Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence.
Appeals ProcessVA Form 20-0996
The Decision Review Request form used to file a Higher-Level Review requesting a senior reviewer examine the record.
Appeals ProcessVA Form 10182
The Decision Review Request form used to appeal a decision to the Board of Veterans' Appeals.
Appeals ProcessVCAA Notice
A letter the VA sends explaining the evidence needed under the Veterans Claims Assistance Act before deciding a claim.
Disability ClaimsVARO
VA Regional Office, the local facility where claims are processed and regional staff manage veterans' benefits.
VA BenefitsVA Form 21-22
The form used to appoint a Veterans Service Organization as the veteran's representative for claims and appeals.
VA BenefitsVA Form 21-22a
The form used to appoint an accredited agent or attorney as the veteran's representative for claims and appeals.
VA BenefitsVA Healthcare
A system of medical centers and clinics providing health services to enrolled veterans based on priority group eligibility.
VA HealthcareVA Medical Center
A full-service VA hospital providing inpatient, outpatient, and specialty medical care to eligible veterans.
VA HealthcareVet Center
Community-based counseling centers providing readjustment services, including counseling for PTSD, MST, and bereavement.
VA HealthcareVocational Rehabilitation
A VA program helping service-connected disabled veterans prepare for, find, and maintain suitable employment.
Veteran EmploymentVET TEC
A VA program that pairs veterans with approved training providers to gain experience in high-tech fields at no cost.
Education BenefitsVA Work Study
A program allowing student veterans to earn money by working part-time at VA facilities or approved organizations.
Veteran EmploymentVeteran Readiness and Employment
The current name for the VR&E program that helps disabled veterans find suitable careers through training and support.
Veteran EmploymentVA Cash-Out Refinance
A VA loan option that lets veterans refinance a mortgage and take cash from their home equity at competitive rates.
VA HousingVA Loan Entitlement
The amount the VA guarantees on a home loan, which determines how much a veteran can borrow without a down payment.
VA HousingVA Claim Timeline
The typical processing period for a VA claim, which varies from a few months for simple claims to over a year for complex ones.
Disability ClaimsVA Form 21-686c
The form used to add or remove dependents from a veteran's disability compensation record for additional payments.
VA BenefitsVA Form 21-8940
The application form for TDIU that documents a veteran's employment history and how disabilities prevent working.
Veteran EmploymentVeteran ID Card
A photo identification card issued by the VA proving veteran status for retail discounts and recognition purposes.
VA BenefitsVA Dental Benefits
Limited dental care provided to veterans based on service-connected dental conditions, former POW status, or 100% disability.
VA HealthcareVA Vision Benefits
Eye care and eyeglasses provided by the VA to veterans with service-connected eye conditions or enrolled in VA healthcare.
VA HealthcareVA Mental Health Services
Counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care provided by the VA for conditions like PTSD, depression, and substance abuse.
VA HealthcareVeterans Crisis Line
A 24/7 hotline at 988 (press 1) providing crisis intervention and support for veterans in emotional distress.
VA HealthcareVFW
Veterans of Foreign Wars, a VSO offering free claims assistance, community support, and legislative advocacy for veterans.
VA BenefitsVeteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses
A VA program covering tuition for high-tech training programs while veterans receive a housing allowance.
Education BenefitsVeteran Preference
A hiring advantage given to eligible veterans applying for federal government jobs, adding points to examination scores.
Veteran EmploymentVEVRAA
Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act requiring federal contractors to take affirmative action to hire veterans.
Veteran EmploymentVA Homeless Programs
VA initiatives including HUD-VASH, SSVF, and GPD that provide housing and support to homeless and at-risk veterans.
VA HealthcareVA Caregiver Stipend
A monthly payment to designated caregivers of seriously injured post-9/11 veterans who need personal care services.
VA HealthcareVA Pension with Aid and Attendance
An enhanced pension rate for wartime veterans who need help with daily activities and meet income and net worth limits.
VA Benefits