Priority group
A priority group is the VA's enrollment tier — 1 through 8 — assigned after you enroll, based on service-connected disability, income, and special authorities. It affects how soon you're enrolled in care and what you pay: Group 1 pays nothing, Group 8 pays the full copay schedule.
The tier behind every VA bill
Assignment runs on service history, disability rating, income, Medicaid eligibility, and other VA benefits — and if you qualify for several groups, you get the highest. Group 1 (50%+ service-connected, or unemployable) pays $0; Group 8 pays $15/$50 visits and the rest of the 2026 schedule; Group 6 — the PACT Act's landing zone — splits the difference, free for special-authority care and standard otherwise.
Groups move: new ratings, lower income (Form 10-10EZR), and new special authorities all promote you. Your group also frames every Medicare comparison on this site — $0 VA costs and full copays argue for very different civilian-side setups.
You earned these benefits. Make them work together.
Whether you keep exactly what you have or add Medicare coverage alongside it, the right answer depends on your health, budget, and how you like to get care.
No cost, no obligation. You can also get help from Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048), or your local SHIP office.