The Playbook › Step 7 of 7: Raise and protect your rating
“Permanent and Total,” usually shortened to P&T, describes a VA rating that is both total, meaning 100% or paid at the 100% rate through TDIU, and permanent, meaning VA does not expect the disability to improve. It is a status, not a separate benefit you are paid for. But it brings stability for you and significant benefits for your family.
The short version
- Total = rated 100%, or receiving TDIU.
- Permanent = VA finds improvement is not reasonably expected, so it schedules no future exams.
- A 100% rating is not automatically permanent.
- Permanent and total opens CHAMPVA health coverage and Chapter 35 education benefits for dependents.
- Your benefit summary letter on VA.gov states whether you are permanent and total.
On this page
Total is not the same as permanent
| Status | What it means |
|---|---|
| 100% schedular, not permanent | Paid at 100%, but VA may re-examine and could propose a reduction if you improve |
| TDIU, not permanent | Paid at 100% because you cannot work; VA may review |
| 100% or TDIU, permanent | P&T. No routine future exams. |
| Temporary 100% | For hospitalization or surgical recovery. Ends on a set date. |
How to tell whether you are permanent and total
Check any of these:
- Your benefit summary letter. Download it from VA.gov. Look for a line saying you are considered totally and permanently disabled due to your service-connected disabilities.
- Your decision letter. Look for the sentence “Basic eligibility to Dependents’ Educational Assistance is established.” VA grants that only when the total disability is permanent.
- Your decision letter again. A statement that no future examinations are scheduled.
- Call VA at 800-827-1000 and ask.
How VA decides permanence
VA considers whether the disability is reasonably certain to continue for life. Factors that point toward permanence:
- The condition is static or degenerative by nature, such as an amputation or advanced arthritis
- It has persisted for years without improvement despite treatment
- Medical evidence says improvement is unlikely
- Your age. VA generally does not schedule re-examinations for veterans over 55, except in unusual cases.
How to request P&T status
If you are at 100% or on TDIU but not marked permanent, you can ask.
- Get a statement from your doctor explaining that your conditions are chronic and not expected to improve, and why.
- Send VA a written request for a finding of permanence, with that statement and supporting records. You can do this through a claim on VA.gov or through your representative.
Think before you ask. A request can prompt VA to look at your current condition. If your disabilities have clearly not improved, that is not a concern. If there is evidence of improvement, talk to an accredited representative first. See rating reductions.
What permanent and total status opens up
For your family
- CHAMPVA. Health coverage for your spouse and dependent children, provided they are not eligible for TRICARE.
- Chapter 35, Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance. A monthly education payment for your spouse and children for college, vocational training, or apprenticeships.
- Dependency and Indemnity Compensation eligibility for your survivors in certain circumstances, including if you were rated totally disabled for at least ten years before death. See DIC.
For you
- No routine re-examinations, and the peace of mind that goes with it
- Federal student loan discharge. Veterans with a total and permanent service-connected disability can have federal student loans discharged.
- VA health care in the highest priority group, with no copays for care
- Commissary, exchange, and recreation access, and space-available military flights within the United States
- VA dental care
State and local benefits
These vary widely and can be very valuable. Many states offer:
- Property tax exemptions or reductions
- Free or reduced vehicle registration and license plates
- Free hunting and fishing licenses
- Tuition waivers at state colleges for dependents
- State income tax advantages
Check with your state department of veterans affairs or your county veterans service office. Our state veteran benefits page links to the official agency for every state. The rules, and the rating required, differ in every state.
Can a P&T rating ever be reduced?
It is rare, but permanent does not mean untouchable in every case.
- VA can act if it finds fraud.
- If you file a new claim, VA may review related conditions.
- For veterans on TDIU, sustained gainful employment can lead to a review. See working while on VA disability.
Ratings in place for 20 years or more have additional legal protection. See rating protections.
Should you file new claims once you are P&T?
There can be good reasons to, such as Special Monthly Compensation or a new secondary condition that matters for survivors’ benefits. There is also some risk whenever VA reopens your file. Get advice from an accredited representative before filing anything new. See who can help.
Free printable checklist. Everything to gather before you file, what to bring to your C&P exam, and what to check in your decision, on two pages.
Last reviewed October 2026. This guide is general educational information, not legal or medical advice, and this site is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Rules and rates change. Confirm details on VA.gov or with an accredited representative. See our disclaimer and editorial policy.