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Compensation

Prestabilization Ratings

A prestabilization rating is a temporary initial rating normally given to Veterans who were recently separated from service and have an unstable disability and are most likely in need and least likely to be self-sufficient. Pre-stabilization ratings may be granted at the 50% or 100% rate, depending on the severity of the disability. They continue for a 12-month period following discharge from service.

Eligibility Requirements

  • You must be a Veteran
  • You must have been separated from military service with an unstable, significantly disabling service-connected disability at the time of separation that will continue for an indefinite period.

Evidence Requirements

The evidence must show:

  • You separated from active military service, AND
  • You have an existing unstabilized condition stemming from any disease or injury that is service-connected (This will normally be part of a Service Treatment Record.), AND
  • Your disability has been significantly disabling at the time of separation and will continue for an indefinite period.

Example

A Veteran was diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease and received a medical discharge from service. The service treatment records (STRs) demonstrate that the disease is active because as of discharge the Veteran continued receiving treatment (e.g. chemotherapy) for her Hodgkin's disease. She was told to contact her local VA medical center for follow-up and any further treatment of her condition, if needed. The claim for compensation resulted in a pre-stabilization rating of 100% for one year from the date of discharge.

How to Apply

For more information on how to apply and for tips on making sure your claim is ready to be processed by VA, visit our How to Apply page.

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