VA Disability Pay Rates
VA Disability Pay Rates are the amount of money disabled veterans receive for their service-connected medical conditions each month. The exact amount of the VA Disability Pay Rates is determined by the veteran’s Total Combined Rating.
Each rating, 0% – 100%, receives a different monetary amount. No monetary benefits are given for a 0% rating (“noncompensable”), and a 100% rating receives the maximum amount, exceeded only by Special Monthly Compensation.
>>The current 2024 VA Disability Pay Rates can be found on our VA Disability Chart. <<
The same amount is given for every veteran, regardless of rank. The only factors that can adjust the amount a veteran receives are dependents, like spouses and children.
All VA Disability Pay Rates at NOT taxable!
For veterans with more extreme disabilities, higher VA Disability Pay Rates are given through Special Monthly Compensation. These rates can be found on our Special Monthly Compensation Rates page.
VA Disability Pay Rates are updated every few years or so by Congress to reflect the increase in the cost of living. Our current VA Disability Chart shows the rates that went into effect on December 1, 2023.
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VA Disability Pay Rates FAQs
What are the current VA Disability Pay Rates?
The current VA Disability Pay Rates went into effect on December 1, 2023 and can be found in our VA Disability Chart. These rates are the amount disabled veteran's receive monthly at the various combined rating percentages for their service-connected disabilities.
How are the rates determined?
Congress designed the rates to reflect the projected amount of lost income that results from a veteran's disability. The rating percentages reflect the severity of the condition, so a 30% rating (they should still be able to work) for a single veteran with no dependents means that $524.31 should cover the economic cost of the disability, while a 100% rating (highly unlikely that they can work) needs $3,737.85.
Do my dependents qualify for disability pay?
Dependents do not qualify for disability in their own right, however, they can increase YOUR overall disability payment since they are dependent on your income. The VA Disability Pay Rates factor in parents, spouses, and children that are legally considered dependents.
How do I know my rating percentage?
After the VA processes your disability claim, they will send you a Rating Decision letter that will detail each condition's individual rating and your Total Combined Rating. Your Total Combined Rating is the rating percentage used to find your payment rate in the chart.
How do I apply to receive my ratings?
To apply, submit a VA Disability Claim along with evidence of service-connection and all medical records regarding the conditions on the claim.
How long does it take to receive my disability benefits?
Brand new claims usually take 3-6 months to process. Once processed, you will start receiving payments in 1-3 months.
How does the VA assign the rating percentages?
The VA follows the rules of the VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD) to assign rating percentages to conditions. The VASRD gives rating rules for conditions based on their symptoms, treatment options, and the resulting level of disability they cause.
How can I qualify for a higher pay rate?
To qualify for a higher pay level, you have to have your individual condition ratings increased to increase your Total Combined Rating. If the VA assigned an incorrect rating to your conditions, you can appeal their rating decision, providing proof that you qualify for a higher rating. If your conditions have worsened since you last applied and now qualify for a higher rating, you can submit a new claim, checking the box for an increased evaluation.
