VA Compensation Calculator
Estimate your monthly VA disability compensation based on your combined rating and dependent status.
Last updated: 2026-07-06
Your monthly compensation depends on two things: your combined rating and your dependent status. This calculator applies the current base rates and dependent add-ons so you can see a realistic monthly and annual estimate before a decision letter arrives.
Why Dependents Only Add Pay at 30% and Above
The VA's rate tables specifically exclude dependent add-ons for ratings under 30% — a veteran rated 20% with a spouse and children receives the same base payment as a single veteran at 20%. Once you cross into the 30% tier and above, a spouse, each dependent child under 18 (or under 23 if in school), and dependent parents each add a specific amount on top of the base rate.
Waiting on a decision? See what retroactive back pay could look like.
Estimate Your Back PayWhy the Exact Number Changes Every Year
Compensation rates adjust annually with the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), tied to the same index used for Social Security. This calculator uses the most recent base rates available, but always cross-check against the VA's current published rate tables before making financial decisions, since a rate table can shift meaningfully between annual updates.
Conclusion
This monthly figure is also the building block for back pay — once you know your rate, the back pay calculator applies it across the months your claim has been pending.
Waiting on a decision? See what retroactive back pay could look like.
Estimate Your Back Pay