Good Career After Getting Rated

Yes, you can and should pursue this career; your VA disability benefits are separate from employment income, and federal law protects your right to work while receiving compensation, regardless of your rating percentage. The primary legal protection is the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), which safeguards your employment and reemployment rights, but for disability-related accommodations, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies, requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations for your medical appointments and conditions, which is directly relevant to your employer giving you "a hard time." Regarding VA benefits, only Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) has restrictive income limits for protected or marginal employment; a schedular 100% rating or any lower rating has no legal income restrictions per 38 CFR 3.343 and 38 CFR 4.16. Your actionable next steps are: 1) **Document Everything**: Keep records of all appointment notices and any negative responses from your employer. 2) **Formally Request Accommodations**: Under the ADA, submit a written request for a flexible schedule or leave for VA appointments as a reasonable accommodation; your employer is legally obligated to engage in this interactive process. 3) **Seek Assistance**: Contact the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) for USERRA issues or the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) for ADA guidance. 4) **Consider Vocational Rehabilitation**: If your service-connected disabilities make this job difficult, explore Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) for potential retraining or employment support. *This information is for educational purposes and is not legal or medical advice; for specific guidance, consult a VA-accredited attorney or claims agent.*