Topics on this page

• What is Veterans Disability Compensation?
• Eligibility
• Income Eligibility
• Asset Eligibility
• Applying
• Appeals
• Sources of Law

What is Veterans Disability Compensation?

VA disability payments offer a monthly tax-free payment to Veterans who got sick or injured while serving in the military and to Veterans whose service made an existing condition worse. Injuries can be physical or mental and can be developed before, during, or after service.

The amount of veterans disability compensation that a veteran is entitled to is based on the veteran’s percent disability and number of dependents.  For a veteran with no dependents, benefits range from $142/month for a 10% disability to $3,106/month for a 100% disability (as of December 1, 2019).  For 30% disability and higher, the amount increases if you have dependents.

To view a full list of list of rates, see the VA Compensation Rate Table.

Eligibility

You must be at least 10% disabled from a condition which is "service connected," and you may not have received a dishonorable discharge.

There is no specific duration of service required for you to be eligible for this Benefit.

For more information see the Department of Veterans Affairs Compensation Fact Sheet.

Income Eligibility

No income limits

Asset Eligibility

No asset limits

Applying

• You can apply on the VA's website.
• You can also apply by mail or in person by completing an Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits (VA Form 21P-526EZ).

Appeals

The Board of Veterans Appeals hears appeals from VA decisions. See the Board's "How do I Appeal" pamphlet for a description of the process.

Sources of Law

• Federal Law: 38 United States Code, Chapter 11 - Compensation for Service Connected Disability or Death
• Federal Regulations: 38 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 3