VA Disability Rating & Homeownership in 2025: Unlocking Your Benefits
After returning home, many veterans rated 70% disabled discover that their VA disability rating does far more than offer monthly compensation. It can unlock homeownership, eliminate thousands in upfront fees, and serve as a foundation for building lasting financial security.
If you're a veteran with any rating—from 10% to 100%—you may be eligible for powerful benefits that remain widely underutilized.
Key Takeaways:
- A VA disability rating as low as 10% can waive certain VA loan fees and open doors to financial benefits.
- Ratings of 70%+ may qualify veterans for housing grants like SAH and SHA.
- The VA loan program allows $0 down home purchases—even at lower disability ratings.
Understanding the Financial Value of Your Disability Rating
Each disability rating level provides access to different tiers of financial and housing benefits. Here's a general breakdown:
Rates sourced from the VA Disability Compensation Rates 2025.
Key Benefits by Rating
30% Disability Rating:
- Additional compensation for eligible dependents (spouse, children)
50% Disability Rating:
- Full VA healthcare benefits
- Priority for claims processing
70% Disability Rating:
- Eligibility for Individual Unemployability (IU)
- Access to Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grants
100% Disability Rating:
- Property tax exemptions (vary by state)
- Full exemption from VA funding fee
- Education stipends
- Priority health care and veteran programs
Housing Benefits & the VA Home Loan Advantage
Many veterans don’t realize how impactful their VA disability rating can be when purchasing a home. A rating of 10% or higher may unlock perks such as:
- $0 down payment VA home loan
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Easier qualification standards
- Potential waiver of VA funding fee at 10%+
Despite this, over 60% of eligible veterans never apply for a VA home loan, according to VA.gov. That’s often due to confusion, misinformation, or working with lenders unfamiliar with the VA loan process.
How to Maximize Your Benefits with the Right VA Lender?
Be My Neighbour (NMLS ID #1743790) is a veteran-focused VA loan specialist platform that connects you to VA-approved lenders who understand the system—without charging hidden fees.
Marcus, the veteran we mentioned earlier, used Be My Neighbour to purchase a $400,000 home with:
- $0 down payment
- No funding fee
- No lender junk fees
✅ Learn more about home loan eligibility at BeMyNeighbor.Mortgage
Commission-Free Home Buying with reAlpha
If you're buying a home, don't waste thousands on real estate agent commissions. reAlpha offers a modern, commission-free way to purchase a home—perfect for veterans who want more buying power and less stress.
Why reAlpha?
- 100% commission-free buyer representation
- Personalized support from licensed agents
- Streamlined digital home search experience
- Veteran-friendly guidance at every step.
FAQs: What Veterans Ask Most
Can I get a VA loan if my disability rating is under 100%?
Yes. Even a 10% rating can lead to partial funding fee waivers. VA loan approval is primarily based on income, credit, and DTI—not disability percentage.
Do VA ratings expire or change?
Ratings can be re-evaluated. However, they often become "protected" after 5-20 years, depending on the situation.
Can my spouse use my rating for VA benefits?
Yes. Surviving spouses of veterans with 100% permanent disability may qualify for VA loan benefits.
When do I qualify for housing grants?
Typically at 70%+ if the disability involves mobility or independence limitations.
Final Thoughts: Use What You’ve Earned
Your VA disability rating is more than a number—it’s a gateway to opportunity. Whether you’re seeking homeownership or long-term wealth-building strategies, make sure you're tapping into every available resource.
You served. Now let your benefits serve you.
Disclosure: Be My Neighbour and reAlpha are affiliated entities offering VA-focused and commission-free services for veterans. No compensation is exchanged for referrals between these entities. All services are offered in compliance with RESPA and other applicable federal regulations.
