Veterans across the U.S. rely on monthly disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These payments reflect your service, sacrifice, and current quality of life. With new 2025 rates effective December 1, 2024, it’s critical to understand exactly how much you should receive, especially if you have dependents.
This article breaks down everything—from base rates to dependent payments—so you can ensure your VA compensation is accurate and complete.
How VA Disability Ratings Impact Monthly Compensation
Your disability rating, assigned by the VA, represents how much your service-connected conditions affect your daily life and ability to work. Ratings range from 10% to 100%, increasing in 10% increments.
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- Higher ratings = higher monthly compensation
- Ratings 30% and above qualify for dependent-related compensation
2025 Monthly Payment Rates for 10% to 20% Disability Ratings
Veterans with a 10% or 20% rating receive standardized payments, regardless of marital or family status:
- 10% rating: \$171.23/month
- 20% rating: \$338.49/month
No additional compensation is granted for dependents at these levels.
Monthly Compensation for Ratings 30% to 100% (With Dependents)
Once you reach a 30% rating, you’re eligible for extra benefits if you have qualifying dependents. Your base monthly amount rises, and additional children or dependent parents increase your final payment.
Here are the 2025 base rates by rating and family status:
| Disability Rating | Veteran Only | With Spouse | With Spouse + 1 Child |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30% | \$508.05 | \$601.42 | \$651.42 |
| 40% | \$731.86 | \$848.89 | \$908.89 |
| 50% | \$1,041.82 | \$1,181.75 | \$1,251.75 |
| 60% | \$1,319.65 | \$1,486.68 | \$1,566.68 |
| 70% | \$1,663.06 | \$1,858.09 | \$1,938.09 |
| 80% | \$1,933.15 | \$2,161.18 | \$2,251.18 |
| 90% | \$2,172.39 | \$2,433.42 | \$2,533.42 |
| 100% | \$3,737.85 | \$3,946.25 | \$4,056.25 |
Who Qualifies as a Dependent?
The VA recognizes the following individuals as eligible dependents:
- Spouse (including same-sex marriages)
- Children under 18
- Children 18–23 in school full-time
- Disabled adult children
- Dependent parents with limited income
Additional payments are available for each qualifying dependent beyond the first.
Real Example: How to Calculate Your VA Monthly Compensation
Let’s say you’re a veteran with an 80% disability rating, married, with three children under 18, and your spouse qualifies for Aid and Attendance.
Breakdown:
- Base payment (spouse + 1 child): \$2,251.18
- Second child: +\$74.00
- Third child: +\$74.00
- Spouse Aid and Attendance: +\$137.00
- Total monthly compensation: \$2,536.18
Additional Benefits: Aid and Attendance (A\&A) for Spouses
If your spouse requires assistance due to their own health condition, you may qualify for Aid and Attendance additions to your monthly compensation. Here’s the breakdown:
| Disability Rating | Monthly A\&A Add-on |
|---|---|
| 30% – 40% | \$63.00 |
| 50% – 60% | \$85.00 |
| 70% – 90% | \$137.00 |
| 100% | \$171.00 |
These amounts are added on top of your base and dependent payments.
Why Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) Matter
Every year, the VA applies a COLA increase to match Social Security adjustments. This helps your compensation keep pace with inflation.
- 2025 rates include the latest COLA
- Future adjustments occur each December
How to Accurately Calculate Your Total Payment
Use this simple 4-step process:
- Check your base rate from the compensation table
- Add amounts for any additional children or dependent parents
- Include Aid and Attendance if eligible
- Verify your VA statement matches your calculated total
Life Events That Can Change Your Compensation
Your VA benefits may increase or decrease based on major life changes:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Children aging out of dependent status
- Spouse’s eligibility for A\&A changes
- Updated disability rating
Always report these changes promptly to avoid overpayments or benefit delays.
Keeping Your VA Records Accurate
To ensure you’re receiving the correct payment:
- Log in to your VA.gov account
- Check your dependents list
- Submit documentation for any updates
- Save a copy of your monthly award letter
Timely updates help prevent issues and ensure that you’re paid the full amount you’re entitled to.
Why Understanding VA Rates Matters
These benefits are more than just monthly income—they are a recognition of your service and commitment. Being informed empowers you to protect your rights, support your family, and plan long-term.
The 2025 updates offer higher payments and expanded support—but only if you know what you’re eligible for.
FAQs
Q1: Do I automatically receive higher payments if I get married?
A: No. You must notify the VA and submit marriage documentation to add your spouse as a dependent.
Q2: When do children lose dependent status?
A: At age 18, unless they are enrolled full-time in school (up to age 23) or are permanently disabled.
Q3: How often do VA disability rates change?
A: Rates are reviewed annually and usually updated each December based on COLA.
Q4: Can I claim a dependent parent?
A: Yes, if your parent has limited income and is financially dependent on you.
Q5: What happens if I forget to report a dependent change?
A: You may receive overpayments or underpayments. In some cases, you’ll have to repay excess funds, so always keep your information current.