If you’re a U.S. veteran dealing with a service-connected disability, VA disability benefits are designed to support you. In 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs is rolling out increased compensation rates and enhanced benefits, making it a good time to review your eligibility or file a new claim. This guide walks you through everything from the new 2025 payment amounts to how to apply and appeal decisions if needed.
Overview
The VA’s disability compensation is a monthly, tax-free benefit for veterans with physical or mental health conditions tied to their military service. In 2025, thanks to an 8.7% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), those payments are going up—offering some financial relief in a time of rising living costs.
Compensation
Here’s what monthly compensation looks like in 2025, depending on your disability rating and the number of dependents:
2025 VA Disability
| Disability Rating | No Dependents | 1 Dependent | 2 Dependents | 3 Dependents | 4 Dependents |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100% | $3,900.33 | $4,104.33 | $4,308.33 | $4,512.33 | $4,716.33 |
| 90% | $2,693.75 | $2,898.75 | $3,102.75 | $3,306.75 | $3,510.75 |
| 80% | $1,917.53 | $2,121.53 | $2,325.53 | $2,529.53 | $2,733.53 |
| 70% | $1,518.74 | $1,722.74 | $1,926.74 | $2,130.74 | $2,334.74 |
| 60% | $1,365.48 | $1,569.48 | $1,773.48 | $1,977.48 | $2,181.48 |
| 50% | $1,191.53 | $1,395.53 | $1,599.53 | $1,803.53 | $2,007.53 |
| 40% | $1,065.12 | $1,269.12 | $1,473.12 | $1,677.12 | $1,881.12 |
| 30% | $950.04 | $1,154.04 | $1,358.04 | $1,562.04 | $1,766.04 |
| 20% | $703.94 | $907.94 | $1,111.94 | $1,315.94 | $1,519.94 |
| 10% | $165.92 | $369.92 | $573.92 | $777.92 | $981.92 |
These numbers reflect base monthly amounts. If you need daily care or have additional severe disabilities, your compensation may be even higher.
Ratings
The VA assigns a disability rating from 0% to 100%, which reflects the severity of your condition. This rating determines your compensation level.
Ratings are based on:
- Medical exams and records
- The impact of your condition on work and daily life
- How multiple conditions interact
The VA uses a special combined rating formula—so two 50% ratings don’t equal 100%. Instead, the VA uses a whole-person approach to calculate your total rating.
Apply
Want to apply for disability compensation? Follow these steps:
Step 1
You’ll need:
- DD214 (discharge papers)
- Medical records (VA and private providers)
- Service treatment records or proof of incident during service
Step 2
Choose one of these methods:
- Online: At VA.gov
- Mail: Send to the VA regional office
- In Person: Visit a VA office for help
Step 3
After applying, you may be asked to complete a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. This helps the VA understand the severity of your condition.
Step 4
Once reviewed, you’ll receive an approval or denial. If approved, you’ll start getting payments. If denied, you have the right to appeal.
Step 5
If you disagree with the VA’s decision, you can request:
- Higher-level review
- Supplemental claim
- Board appeal hearing
Programs
If you have more serious disabilities, these VA programs offer extra support:
- Special Monthly Compensation (SMC): For veterans with extreme disabilities (loss of limbs, blindness, etc.)
- Aid and Attendance (A&A): For those needing help with daily living (bathing, dressing, eating)
These benefits are added on top of your base compensation.
Dependents
If your disability rating is 30% or higher, your spouse, children, and dependent parents may also qualify for extra monthly compensation. Survivors of deceased veterans may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), which provides monthly support for spouses and dependents.
Applying for these benefits is similar to the standard VA claim, but you’ll need to provide marriage, birth, or adoption certificates depending on who you’re claiming as a dependent.
VA disability benefits are more than a monthly check—they’re a way to help veterans and their families live better, more stable lives. With increased 2025 rates, new tools, and extra help for severely disabled vets, now is a great time to check your eligibility or file an appeal if you’ve been denied in the past.
FAQs
How much is 100% VA disability in 2025?
$3,900.33 per month without dependents.
What is the 2025 VA COLA increase?
An 8.7% increase over 2024 rates.
Can I apply for VA benefits online?
Yes, visit VA.gov to file your disability claim.
What if my claim is denied?
You can appeal through a higher-level review or board hearing.
Do dependents affect my VA pay?
Yes, more dependents mean higher monthly compensation.
