2026 VA Disability Pay Rates
| Rating | Veteran Alone | + Spouse | + Spouse & Child | Healthcare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 | $180.42 | $180.42 | PG 3 |
| 20% | $356.66 | $356.66 | $356.66 | PG 3 |
| 30% | $552.47 | $617.47 | $666.47 | PG 2 |
| 40% | $795.84 | $882.84 | $947.84 | PG 2 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 | $1,241.90 | $1,322.90 | PG 1 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 | $1,566.02 | $1,663.02 | PG 1 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 | $1,961.45 | $2,074.45 | PG 1 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 | $2,277.15 | $2,406.15 | PG 1 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 | $2,559.30 | $2,704.30 | PG 1 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 | $4,158.17 | $4,318.99 | PG 1 |
Rates for veteran alone and with spouse. Child adds $35–$103/mo depending on rating. Add'l children, A&A, housebound add more. Verify at VA.gov.
How VA Ratings and Pay Work
Ratings Are Cumulative, Not Additive
Multiple disabilities combine using the "whole person" method — they do not simply add up. A 70% rating and a 30% rating does not equal 100%. Use our combined rating calculator to see the math.
TDIU Can Give You 100% Pay at a Lower Rating
If your rating is 60%+ (single disability) or 70%+ combined (with one at 40%+) and your disabilities prevent employment, you may qualify for TDIU — which pays at the $3,938.58 rate even below 100% schedular.
Learn About TDIU →Dependent Add-Ons (30%+ Only)
Spouse add-on ranges from $62 at 30% to $219.59 at 100%. Each additional child adds $35.32–$103.55 depending on rating. Aid & Attendance for a dependent parent or spouse is additional. All tax-free.
COLA History: How Pay Has Grown
Frequently Asked Questions
When do 2026 VA disability pay rates take effect?
The 2026 rates (2.8% COLA) took effect December 1, 2025 — reflected on January 1, 2026 payments. VA disability compensation is paid on the first business day of each month for the prior month.
Are VA disability payments taxable?
No. VA disability compensation is completely tax-free under 26 USC §104. You do not report it on your federal or state income tax return. This distinguishes it from military retired pay, which is taxable (though some states exempt it).
What is the 2026 pay rate for a 70% disabled veteran with a spouse and two children?
At 70%, a veteran with a spouse earns $1,961.45/month. Each child adds $76.00, so two children add $152.00, totaling $2,113.45/month tax-free. Verify your exact amount with the VA's benefits estimator at VA.gov.
How is the COLA percentage determined?
The VA COLA mirrors the Social Security COLA, which is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). The Social Security Administration announces the COLA in October each year for the following December effective date.