This question is about VA benefits, i was recently evaluated at 30% service connected and at still in the national guard.is there a cut off

2015-12-15T10:30:49-05:00

Can I keep both checks, people i speak to have different opinions, some say 30% is the magic number is this true?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 10:39 AM

2015-12-15T10:39:35-05:00

30% is the number to start receiving benefits, below 30% you will not receive anything or get a separation pay I believe

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Dec 15 at 2015 10:42 AM

2015-12-15T10:42:05-05:00

I concur with MAJ Private RallyPoint Member. 30% service connected disability is the minimum level to receive disability compensation. You probably should talk to a JAG officer about whether you can be active in ARNG and drawing pay because of your service while still collecting VA disability compensation.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2015 10:56 AM

2015-12-15T10:56:15-05:00

This is a question for SFC Private RallyPoint Member!

Response by SGT Mark Stevens made Dec 15 at 2015 10:57 AM

2015-12-15T10:57:58-05:00

Actually, you can receive a disability payment in the 10% rating level as well. As your rating goes up 10, 20, 30% and on various benefits open up for you. You can be in the guard and receive disability payments however if you go over your regular drill weekend time you must report it to the VA so they can adjust your pay accordingly. If you get activated, the VA can put your disability payments on hold and suspend them until your an "M" day soldier again. You don't lose your rating and you don't have to re-establish your claim. You just give them a copy of your newest DD214. Hope this helps.

Response by SSG Robert Smith made Dec 16 at 2015 12:33 AM

2015-12-16T00:33:52-05:00

This is my experience with disability compensation. You'll get payment starting at 10% At 30% you'll also get payments for your dependents. That's what is meant by the magic number.
Concerning National Guard if you are a traditional soldier you can get both but at the end of the fiscal year your drill will be reported to the VA by dfas and you can either have your compensation stopped to pay back your drill time or drill without pay. If you're AGR you won't get compensation because you are active status. I'm 60% and I still drill.