Ten percent. That's how the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs rates vitiligo when it affects exposed skin. Zero percent when it doesn't. Simple enough on paper. But what does that actually mean for veterans living with vitiligo, and how do you navigate the VA system to get the benefits you may be entitled to?

In this episode of Deep Dive in Vitiligo, we take a practical look at VA disability benefits for vitiligo. We explain how the rating system works, walk through the main steps of filing a claim, and outline the medical records, supporting evidence, and paperwork that can help make your case. Along the way, we explore why the impact of vitiligo on military careers, mental health, and everyday life isn't always reflected in a disability percentage.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The 10% rule: How the VA rates vitiligo and what qualifies for compensation.
• Filing a claim: The main steps, eligibility requirements, and what to expect along the way.
• Getting your paperwork right: Medical records, service connection evidence, photographs, and other supporting documentation.
• Beyond the rating: What to consider when vitiligo affects mental health, work, or quality of life.

Whether you're preparing your first VA claim, trying to understand an existing rating, or simply wondering what support is available, this episode offers a clear starting point without drowning you in government jargon.

Because ten percent may be the number on the paperwork. It doesn't have to be the whole story.

Deep Dive in Vitiligo is produced by the Vitiligo Research Foundation to make research, healthcare policy, and patient experiences easier to understand. This episode is for educational purposes and does not constitute individual medical or legal advice.