If you are a veteran with a 100% service-connected disability rating, you may be eligible for a VA permanent and total disability ID card.
This card can help you access various benefits and services from the VA and other organizations.
But how do you get one? And what are the advantages of having one? In this article, we will answer these questions and more.
What is a VA permanent and total disability ID card?
A VA permanent and total disability ID card is a form of photo identification that proves you have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA. This means that your disability is expected to last for the rest of your life and prevents you from working or earning a living.
The VA permanent and total disability ID card is different from other types of veteran ID cards, such as the:
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Department of Defense (DoD) Identification Card
The VHIC is used to check in to your appointments at VA medical centers, while the DoD card is used to show your military status and access military bases.
The VA permanent and total disability ID card does not replace these cards, but rather complements them.
How do you get a VA permanent and total disability ID card?
To get a VA permanent and total disability ID card, you need to meet the following criteria:
- You must have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA. This can be either a schedular rating based on the severity of your condition, or a total disability based on individual unemployability (TDIU) rating based on your inability to work.
- You must have a letter from the VA stating that your disability is permanent and total. You can request this letter by calling the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or by logging into your eBenefits account.
- You must have a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- You must have your discharge paper, such as a DD Form 214 or NGB Form 22.
Once you have these documents, you can apply for your VA permanent and total disability ID card at any Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System (RAPIDS) office.
These are the same offices that issue DoD cards. You can find the nearest RAPIDS office by using this locator tool.
You will need to fill out an Application for Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment (DD Form 1172-2) and present your documents to the RAPIDS agent. The agent will verify your eligibility and issue your card on the spot.
What are the benefits of having a VA permanent and total disability ID card?
Having a VA permanent and total disability ID card can help you access various benefits and services from the VA and other organizations. Some of these benefits include:
- A monthly tax-free compensation payment from the VA
- Free health care and prescriptions from the VA
- Dental care from the VA
- Vocational rehabilitation and employment services from the VA
- Education benefits from the VA
- Home loan guaranty from the VA
- Life insurance from the VA
- Burial and memorial benefits from the VA
- Dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) for your surviving spouse and children
- ChampVA health care for your spouse and children
- Commissary and exchange privileges on military bases
- Space-available travel on military aircraft
- Access to state veterans benefits, such as property tax exemptions, tuition waivers, license plates, etc.
- Discounts offered to veterans by many stores, businesses, and restaurants
Conclusion
A VA permanent and total disability ID card is a valuable document that can help you prove your status as a 100% disabled veteran and access various benefits and services.
To get one, you need to have a letter from the VA stating that your disability is permanent and total, along with other documents.
You can apply for your card at any RAPIDS office near you. Having this card can make your life easier and more comfortable as a disabled veteran.
If you enjoyed this article and want to learn more about the disability insurance, don’t forget to check out our website for more interesting and informative content.