VA Disability Compensation Guide
Complete guide to VA disability compensation - current rates, eligibility requirements, and how to understand your benefits for service-connected conditions.
What is VA Disability Compensation?
VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment made to veterans who were injured or became ill due to their military service. The amount depends on your disability rating, which reflects how much your service-connected condition affects your ability to work and perform daily activities.
2026 Rate Increase
VA disability compensation rates increased by 2.8% effective December 1, 2025, due to the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
2026 Compensation Rates
These rates are effective December 1, 2025. The "With Spouse" column shows a veteran with a spouse and no parents or children. VA pays additional amounts for dependents only at 30% and above. For rates covering children or dependent parents, see the full tables on VA.gov.
| Disability Rating | Monthly Payment (No Dependents) | With Spouse |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 | $617.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 | $882.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 | $1,241.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 | $1,566.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 | $1,961.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 | $2,277.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 | $2,559.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 | $4,158.17 |
Eligibility Requirements
Key Benefits
Tax-Free Payments
Monthly compensation is not taxed at federal or state level
Healthcare Access
May affect VA health care enrollment priority. Eligibility and any copays depend on additional factors.
Additional Benefits
Vocational rehab, home loans, and job support programs
Dependent Benefits
Additional Compensation for Dependents
Veterans with disability ratings of 30% or higher receive additional monthly compensation for qualifying dependents:
Spouse
Additional monthly payment varies by disability rating
Children
Each child under 18 (or 23 if in school)
Dependent Parents
If they depend on you for support
Special Monthly Compensation
For severe disabilities requiring aid and attendance
How Ratings Are Determined
Medical Examination
VA may schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam if additional medical information is needed, to evaluate your condition and determine the severity of your disability.
Rating Schedule
VA uses the Schedule for Rating Disabilities to assign percentage ratings from 0% to 100% in 10% increments.
Combined Ratings
Multiple disabilities are combined using VA math, not simple addition. A 50% and 30% rating doesn't equal 80%.
Important Notes
- • Ratings can be increased if your condition worsens
- • You can file for additional conditions at any time
- • VA assigns an effective date according to federal law and the type and circumstances of the claim. It is not always the date the claim was filed.
- • Consider supplemental disability insurance for additional protection
How to Apply
Online Application
File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov for fastest processing and automatic status updates.
Get Help
Work with a VA-accredited representative or Veterans Service Organization for assistance.
Last reviewed for accuracy: August 2026
Primary source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs