February 4, 2026
8 minutes
A 70% disability rating from the VA is more than just a compensation number - it can open doors to expanded healthcare, education opportunities, and potential homeownership benefits through the VA loan program. In 2025, a single veteran at 70% earns $1,819.06/month tax-free. Add dependents and your compensation increases substantially.
Key Takeaways:
- Veterans with a 70% VA disability rating receive $1,819/month tax-free in 2025 - more with dependents.
- Many qualify for higher benefits through TDIU (Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability).
- VA loan funding fee exemptions may apply, potentially saving thousands on home purchases.
- Homeownership is possible with $0 down and no buyer-side commission costs on some platforms.
- State and federal perks span healthcare, education, property tax relief, and more.
How Does the VA Loan Work with 70% Disability?
If you’re rated 70% disabled by the VA, you're in a powerful position to secure a home loan with unbeatable terms.
Here’s what you qualify for:
- No VA funding fee – Save up to $15,000
- $0 down payment – No need to drain savings
- No PMI – More savings monthly
- Easier approval – Credit-flexible underwriting
Want a smarter way to buy?
Explore VA home loan benefits or pre-qualify.
Is It Worth Using a VA Loan with 70% Disability?
Yes. If you’re exempt from the funding fee, your total lifetime savings can exceed $20,000, especially in high-cost areas. Learn more about VA loan vs conventional loan.
Get Pre-Qualified and Save Up to 1.5% at Closing with reAlpha
Save up to 1.5% at closing when you combine real estate and mortgage services with reAlpha.
Pros and Cons of TDIU vs. Full 100% Rating
TDIU Pros:
- Easier to qualify based on employability
- Pays 100% rate
TDIU Cons:
- Doesn’t count as a true 100% rating
- May limit other benefit eligibility
2025 VA Compensation at 70%
- Veteran only: $1,819.06/month
- With spouse: $1,954.06/month
- With spouse + child: $2,081.06/month Payments are tax-free and protected from garnishment (source: VA.gov)
Path to 100% Through TDIU
Veterans who are unable to maintain substantially gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities may qualify for TDIU, which pays at the 100% rate without changing the actual rating. This can increase both compensation and benefit access.
Healthcare, Education & Career Perks
- Priority Group 1 VA healthcare (low or no cost)
- Free prescriptions and mental health support
- DEA (Chapter 35) education benefits for dependents
- Vocational rehabilitation (VR&E) for retraining and job support
VA Home Loan Advantage - Funding Fee Exemption
Veterans with a 70% disability rating may be exempt from the VA funding fee - a savings of up to $15,000.
VA Loan Benefits:
- $0 down payment required†
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Competitive fixed-rate options
- Easier qualification criteria than conventional loans
Subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will qualify. Interest rates vary. APR will be disclosed with specific loan terms through reAlpha Mortgage.
Your 70% Rating Is a Powerful Starting Point
Buying your dream home doesn’t have to drain your savings. With reAlpha Mortgage, you can save thousands at closing with up to 1.5% of your buyer agent’s commission rebated back to you. Here’s how:
- Get 0.5% just by using a reAlpha agent
- Bundle your loan with reAlpha Mortgage to reach 1%
That’s real money back - to fund your inspections, moving costs, or home upgrades.
Explore how much you can save with your VA benefits at reAlpha Mortgage.
Veterans Can Save Up to 1.5% at Closing with reAlpha
Save up to 1.5% on your purchase price by using reAlpha Realty and Mortgage together
FAQs
Will the VA disability compensation increase in 2025?
Yes, VA disability rates rose in 2025 due to the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). A 70% rating now earns you $1,819.06/month if single - more with dependents.
Can I go from 70% to 100% VA disability?
Absolutely. You can:
- File new claims if conditions worsen
- Apply for TDIU if you're unemployable
- Combine multiple ratings for a higher total
TDIU gives 100% pay even without a 100% rating.
Is 70% PTSD a permanent VA disability?
Not always. The VA may schedule reevaluations if improvement is possible. If your PTSD is chronic and unlikely to improve, your rating may be deemed Permanent & Total (P&T).
Is it hard to get 100% VA disability?
It’s challenging but very possible. To qualify:
- You must show severe limitations on daily life or work
- OR prove you’re unemployable (TDIU)
Getting VA-accredited help makes a big difference.
What are the home loan perks for 70% disabled veterans?
- $0 down with a VA loan
- No funding fee (saves thousands)
- No PMI, flexible credit
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Article by
Rocky Billore is a mortgage industry leader and Chief Sales Officer with over two decades of experience across residential and commercial lending. Since entering the industry in 2004, he has been directly involved in funding more than $1.4 billion in loans. A recognized expert in VA and government lending, Rocky combines deep program knowledge with a data driven, relationship-first leadership style. His work focuses on building scalable sales organizations, developing high performing teams, and aligning technology with real world lending outcomes to improve the homeownership experience.