Understanding the Difference Between Static and Permanent & Total (P&T) VA Ratings

Understanding the Difference Between Static and Permanent & Total (P&T) VA Ratings

 

 

Many veterans reach out with a familiar question: What’s the difference between a static rating and a Permanent & Total (P&T) rating?

You might wonder:

  • Why doesn’t my benefit letter say P&T even if I have static conditions?

  • How do I know if my rating is protected from future reviews?

This article breaks it all down—so if you’ve been confused, you’re not alone.

What Does “Static” Really Mean?

When the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) labels a condition as static, it means they believe it’s unlikely to improve over time. But here’s what that does not mean:

  • It does not mean the rating is permanent.

  • It does not mean the rating is protected from future review.

For example, let’s say you have a 30% rating for migraines. If the VA marks it as static, they’re saying they don’t plan on scheduling future exams—for now. But if you file for an increase or new medical evidence appears suggesting improvement, they can reexamine and potentially reduce your rating.

🔍 Key takeaway: Static = Not expected to improve. But it’s not locked in.

Permanent and Total Ratings (P&T) Explained

A Permanent and Total (P&T) rating is when the VA concludes that:

  1. Your service-connected conditions are unlikely to improve.

  2. Your combined rating is 100% (either schedular or via Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU)).

  3. The VA has no plans for future exams.

P&T status provides strong protections and benefits, such as:

Static vs. P&T: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to assume that if your condition is labeled static, you’re P&T. But that’s not always the case.

The VA only marks you as P&T in your VA Benefit Summary Letter if:

  • You’re 100% schedular OR

  • You’re receiving TDIU

For example:

You have 70% PTSD (static) and 20% for a back injury (not static). Your total rating is 80%. Your summary letter won’t say P&T—because your combined rating isn’t 100%, even if your PTSD is static.

🛑 Important: A static condition means “no planned reexams right now.” It does not mean your entire disability rating is protected, nor does it qualify you for P&T benefits.

How to Check If You’re Static or P&T

You have three reliable ways to check your rating status:

1. Review Your VA Decision Letters

Look for language like:

  • “No future exams scheduled”

  • “Condition is static”

    These phrases indicate a static condition, but not necessarily P&T.

2. Check Your VA Benefit Summary Letter

Visit VA.gov and sign into your VA.gov account to download your benefit summary letter.

If it says you are Permanent and Total, and your combined rating is 100%, then you’re officially P&T.

3. Request Your VA Code Sheet

This internal document shows:

  • All your rated conditions

  • Which ones are static

  • Whether you’re officially marked P&T

You can request this by:

  • Submitting a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request

  • Visiting your VA Regional Office

  • Asking a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) with VBMS access if they can pull it up

📝 Some veterans say it can pop out from a printer behind the scenes—so it never hurts to ask!

Why Knowing the Difference Matters

Understanding the difference between static and P&T is critical.

  • A static rating can still be reexamined.

  • A P&T rating is protected from reduction and comes with major added benefits.

And with recent reports from the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) showing inappropriate reexaminations, it’s more important than ever to verify your status. Don’t get blindsided by a surprise review.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Let’s recap:

  • Static = Condition not expected to improve, but not fully protected.

  • P&T = 100% protected, with no future exams, and additional state and federal benefits.

If your benefit letter doesn’t say “Permanent and Total,” and you’re not rated 100% (or on TDIU), then you’re likely not P&T—even if some conditions are static.

🛡️ Stay informed. Double-check your status. Knowing where you stand can prevent headaches and help you fight back if the VA gets it wrong.

📌 Additional Resources:

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Veterans should consult directly with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO), or a qualified attorney for personalized assistance regarding their VA claims and rating status. Information may change and should be verified with official VA resources.