2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates

Effective December 1, 2025. Reflects the 2.5% COLA increase for 2026.

💡 These rates are for a single veteran with no dependents. Rates increase with dependents (spouse, children, dependent parents). Veterans rated 30%+ receive additional dependent allowances.
RatingMonthly (Veteran Alone)Annual
10%$171.23$2,054.76
20%$338.49$4,061.88
30%$524.31$6,291.72
40%$755.28$9,063.36
50%$1,075.16$12,901.92
60%$1,361.88$16,342.56
70%$1,716.28$20,595.36
80%$1,995.01$23,940.12
90%$2,241.91$26,902.92
100%$3,737.85$44,854.20

Understanding VA Disability Pay

VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment to veterans with service-connected disabilities. The amount depends on your combined disability rating and number of dependents.

2026 COLA Increase

The 2026 rates reflect a 2.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), effective December 1, 2025. This increase is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI-W).

How Ratings Work

The VA assigns disability ratings in 10% increments from 0% to 100%. Your combined rating is calculated using VA math (not simple addition). Use our VA Disability Calculator to see your combined rating.

100% P&T (Permanent & Total)

Veterans rated 100% Permanent & Total receive the maximum monthly compensation plus eligibility for additional benefits: CHAMPVA healthcare for dependents, Chapter 35 education benefits, property tax exemptions (varies by state), and commissary/exchange access.

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)

Veterans with certain severe disabilities may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation above the 100% rate. SMC levels range from SMC-K ($139.67/mo additional) to SMC-R ($10,964.75/mo).

Concurrent Retirement & Disability Pay (CRDP)

Military retirees with 50%+ VA disability can receive both full military retired pay and full VA disability compensation without offset.

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