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Increased disability rating for time in a hospital

If you spent time in a VA hospital or a VA-approved hospital for a disability related to your military service, you may be able to get a temporary 100% disability rating. With this increased rating, you may get added compensation for the time you spent in the hospital. Keep reading to find out if you may be eligible. 

Am I eligible for a temporary 100% rating from VA?

You may be eligible for a temporary 100% rating if you meet one of the requirements listed here.

One of these must be true:

  • You spent more than 21 days in a VA hospital or other approved hospital for a service-connected disability, or
  • You were under hospital observation for more than 21 days at our expense for a service-connected disability

What kind of disability benefits can I get?

You may be able to get a temporary increase in compensation for the time you spent in the hospital.

Example: A Veteran with a 40% service-connected disability rating for diabetes had to stay in a VA hospital after going into a diabetic coma. He needed to stay in the hospital for 25 days because of the coma and related infections. We raised his rating to 100% during his hospital stay. After he got out of the hospital, his disability rating went back to 40%.

How do I get these benefits?

You can file a claim online now to get a temporary 100% rating. You can also file by mail, in person, or with the help of a trained professional. 

Note: If you weren’t in a VA hospital, you’ll need to submit your hospital discharge summary when you file your claim. The hospital discharge summary must show the length and cause of your hospital stay.

File for disability compensation online

Learn about other ways to file a disability compensation claim

What if I have questions about these benefits?

You can call us at 800-827-1000. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET.