Question 1

What counts as a service-connected disability?

Accepted Answer

A service-connected disability is a physical or mental condition that was caused or worsened by military service. It must be officially rated by the VA or DoD. Conditions range from physical injuries (loss of limb, hearing loss, vision impairment) to mental health conditions (PTSD, TBI). Pre-existing conditions that were aggravated beyond their natural progression during service also qualify. The disability must be documented in service records and confirmed through a formal determination.

Question 2

Who qualifies as a service-disabled veteran for SDVOSB purposes?

Accepted Answer

A service-disabled veteran is a veteran with a disability that was incurred or aggravated in the line of duty during active service in the U.S. military, Naval, or Air Service. The disability must be documented through a disability rating from the VA or a determination from DoD. There is no minimum disability percentage required for most federal SDVOSB programs — even a 0% rating qualifies — though VA's Veterans First program requires confirmation from VA records.

Question 3

Is a minimum disability rating required to qualify as an SDVOSB?

Accepted Answer

For SBA's VetCert program and most civilian agency SDVOSB set-asides, there is no minimum disability percentage required. Even a 0% service-connected disability rating qualifies. However, the VA's Veterans First Contracting Program requires verification through the VA's records. The disability must be officially documented — a pending claim is not sufficient until a rating determination is issued.

What counts as a service-connected disability?

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