Glossary

an extra 10% boost when both arms or both legs have service-connected conditions.

the top VA-level appeals venue — a Veterans Law Judge reviews your case.

a lay statement from someone who witnessed your condition or the event that caused it.

Compensation & Pension exam — a VA-scheduled medical exam that evaluates your disability.

the VA document that proves your VA-loan entitlement to a lender.

the date your benefits start being counted from, usually when you filed.

a one-time fee on VA loans that funds the loan guaranty program — may be waived for some disabled veterans.

a senior VA reviewer looks at the same evidence again — no new documents allowed.

a placeholder that locks in your effective date up to a year before you file the full claim.

the medical link between your current condition and your military service.

Chapter 33 — up to 36 months of education benefits for post-9/11 service members.

a condition the VA automatically links to service for certain veterans — you don't have to prove the nexus.

one of 8 tiers that determines your VA healthcare copays and enrollment order.

a lump sum covering the time between your effective date and your award.

Special Monthly Compensation — extra pay on top of a regular rating for severe disabilities or combined conditions.

roughly, full-time work that pays above the federal poverty line.

a re-decision based on new and relevant evidence you add.

Total Disability Individual Unemployability — full compensation rate for veterans whose service-connected conditions prevent work, even below a 100% rating.

Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act — reemployment protections for reservists and guard members.

a federal hiring advantage — extra points on competitive eligibility lists.

Veteran Readiness & Employment, Chapter 31 — tuition + living stipend tied to an employability plan.