Glossary

VA rating terms, in clear language

The vocabulary a VA disability rating decision uses, each defined in plain language with a link to the federal rule behind it. These are educational definitions, not advice about your claim.

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Combined evaluation

Your total rating after individual ratings are combined by efficiency, not added.

Static

A rating VA does not expect to change, so no future examination is scheduled.

Deferred

A decision on a condition that VA has postponed, usually pending more evidence or an exam.

Routine future examination

A re-examination VA has scheduled to review a condition at a later date.

Effective date

The date a benefit is payable from.

Bilateral factor

An extra amount added when both left and right paired limbs are service-connected.

Pyramiding

The rule against rating the same symptom under two different diagnostic codes.

Service connection

VA's finding that a condition is linked to your military service.

Diagnostic code

The four-digit code VA uses to identify a condition and the criteria it is rated on.

C&P exam

A compensation and pension examination VA uses to evaluate a claimed condition.

Individual unemployability

A way VA can pay at the 100% rate when service-connected conditions prevent gainful work.

Special monthly compensation

An amount paid in addition to, or instead of, the regular rate for specific circumstances.

Protected rating

A long-standing rating that federal rules protect from reduction after set periods.

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