What percent service connection is the minimum needed for benefits from CRDP?

To qualify for benefits from Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP), a veteran must have a service-connected disability rating of at least 50 percent. This minimum percentage is established to ensure that the benefits are directed towards those veterans who have a significant disability that impacts their ability to engage in typical civilian employment or daily activities. The goal of CRDP is to restore the retirement pay that is offset due to the veteran's disability compensation. Veterans rated below 50 percent do not meet the threshold needed to receive these specific benefits, as the program is designed for individuals with more substantial service-related impairments. Thus, the correct answer highlights the importance of having a notable service connection to access CRDP benefits.