VA Disability Compensation Explained

VA disability compensation is a monthly tax-free payment for a condition that was caused by your service, or that service made worse. It covers physical conditions and mental health conditions alike, including PTSD.

What you're paid depends on your combined rating, in 10% steps. For a veteran with no dependents, at rates effective December 1, 2025:

  • 10% — $180.42 a month
  • 30% — $552.47
  • 50% — $1,132.90
  • 70% — $1,808.45
  • 100% — $3,938.58

From 30% upward, dependents increase the payment, so the figures above are a floor rather than the whole picture.

Two things worth knowing. It's not means-tested — earnings and savings make no difference. And there's no deadline to file, though an earlier claim usually means an earlier effective date, which is what decides back pay.

Who is eligible?

You need a current diagnosed condition, service that could have caused or aggravated it, and a medical link between the two. That link — the "nexus" — is what most claims turn on.

The condition can have started before, during or after service. A pre-existing condition that service made worse can be compensated for the worsening.

Some conditions are presumptive, meaning the VA accepts the service connection without you having to prove the nexus — certain exposures and certain deployment locations carry presumptions. Checking whether yours is on a presumptive list is the highest-value thing you can do before filing.

A rating also unlocks other things: VR&E at 10%, and a VA home loan funding-fee exemption if you're receiving compensation.

How do I apply?

  • Check the presumptive lists first: If your condition is presumptive for your service, you don't have to prove the nexus, which changes the whole shape of the claim.
  • Gather your evidence: Service treatment records, current medical records, and anything linking the two. Buddy statements can help where records are thin.
  • File on VA.gov: Start at va.gov/disability. Filing an intent to file can preserve an earlier effective date while you assemble evidence.
  • Expect a C&P exam: The VA usually schedules a Compensation and Pension examination. Attending it matters — a missed exam can mean a denial on the evidence available.
  • Get free accredited help: VSOs — the VFW, DAV, American Legion and your state's veteran affairs office — are accredited to help at no cost. You never need to pay a percentage of back pay to file an initial claim.
  • Appeal if it's wrong: There are several review lanes with their own deadlines. A denial is not the end of it.

Common questions

How much is VA disability compensation a month?

For a veteran with no dependents, $180.42 at 10%, $552.47 at 30%, $1,132.90 at 50%, $1,808.45 at 70% and $3,938.58 at 100%, on rates effective December 1, 2025. Dependents increase it from 30% up.

When do VA disability rates change?

Rates are updated annually, and the current table took effect on December 1, 2025. The increase follows the Social Security COLA announced each October.

Do dependents increase your VA disability payment?

Only from 30% upward. Below 30% the rate tables do not vary by dependents at all.

What is the difference between your rating and your payment?

Your payment follows your combined rounded rating, not the individual ratings added together. A 73 combined rounds to 70% and pays the 70% rate.

Do you have to pay someone to file a VA claim?

No. Accredited VSOs help at no cost, and you should never pay a share of back pay for an initial claim.

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