Many Veterans may not realize they are eligible for life-changing benefits earned through their service to our country. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides disability compensation a monthly, tax-free payment to Veterans who became sick or injured during military service or whose service made an existing condition worse.
If you served, you may be entitled to monthly payments, health care, and other valuable VA benefits. This guide explains what VA disability compensation is, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Overview: VA Disability Compensation at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Type | Monthly, tax-free compensation |
| Purpose | To support Veterans with service-connected disabilities |
| Disability Rating Range | 10% to 100% |
| Payment Amounts (2024–2025) | $180 to over $4,000 per month (depending on rating and dependents) |
| Health Benefits | Free or low-cost VA health care for rated Veterans |
| Eligibility | Illness or injury caused or worsened by military service |
| How to Apply | Online, by mail, in person, or through an accredited representative |
| Official Website | VA.gov/disability |
| Support Line | 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411) |
What Is VA Disability Compensation?
VA disability compensation is a monthly tax-free payment for Veterans who got sick or injured during their time in service or whose service aggravated an existing condition.
You may also qualify if you develop certain illnesses or mental health conditions after service, as long as the VA determines the connection to your military experience.
Conditions That May Qualify
VA covers a wide range of physical and mental health conditions that are service-related. These may include (but aren’t limited to):
Physical Conditions
- Chronic (long-lasting) back pain resulting in a diagnosed disability
- Breathing problems caused by lung disease or exposure
- Severe hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Loss of range of motion (problems moving your body)
- Ulcers or digestive issues
- Cancers or illnesses linked to toxic exposures (such as Agent Orange, burn pits, or radiation)
Mental Health Conditions
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety or panic disorders
- Depression
- Conditions related to Military Sexual Trauma (MST)
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
“If your condition began during service, worsened because of service, or developed due to service-related exposure, you may be entitled to compensation,” says Lisa Moran, a VA-accredited claims representative. “Even if you’ve been out of the military for years, it’s not too late to file.”
Understanding Disability Ratings and Payments
VA assigns each service-connected condition a disability rating between 0% and 100%, reflecting how much it impacts your ability to work and function daily.
- A 10% rating or higher qualifies you for monthly tax-free compensation.
- Veterans with ratings 30% and above may receive additional pay for dependents (spouse, children, or parents).
- Those with multiple conditions receive a combined rating using a special VA formula.
In 2025–2026, monthly payments range from about $180 (10%) to more than $4,000 (100%), depending on your rating and dependent status.
Additionally, Veterans with a 10% rating or higher are eligible for free or reduced-cost VA health care.
Mythbuster: Filing for New Conditions Will Not Affect Your Current Rating
Already have a disability rating? Many Veterans hesitate to apply for new benefits out of concern that their existing rating might be reduced.
Fact: Filing for another ratable condition (for example, back pain or tinnitus) will not automatically put your current rating at risk.
Each claim is evaluated independently, meaning a veteran with a hearing loss rating can safely file for a back condition or PTSD without affecting their existing benefits.
“The biggest mistake we see is Veterans waiting years to file because they think they’ll lose what they already have,” says John Keller, a retired VA rater. “That’s simply not true don’t wait to get the benefits you deserve.”
Applying for VA Disability Compensation
You can apply for VA disability compensation at any time, regardless of how long it’s been since you left the military. There are four easy ways to file:
1. Apply Online
Visit VA.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction to file securely online.
2. Apply by Mail
Download, print, and complete VA Form 21-526EZ.
Mail it to:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
P.O. Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
3. Apply In Person
Bring your completed claim to your nearest VA regional office for personal assistance.
4. Get Professional Help
Work with an accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), claims agent, or attorney who can guide you through the process for free.
Find help at VA.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation.
Eligibility
You may qualify for VA disability compensation if:
- You have a current illness or injury affecting your mind or body, and
- Your condition was caused or worsened by your active-duty service, and
- You were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
Important: Your Benefits Don’t Take Away from Others
VA funding for disability compensation does not come from a limited pool meaning your claim does not reduce what other Veterans receive.
Every qualified Veteran is entitled to full benefits under law.
“The VA system was built to serve all who served,” emphasizes Dr. Raymond Keane (Ret.), a Veterans advocate. “You’re not taking from anyone you’re simply claiming what you’ve earned.”
Don’t Wait—File Now
You can apply for disability benefits at any time, even decades after separating from service. The sooner you file, the sooner you can access your earned compensation, health care, and other VA benefits.
If you’re unsure where to start:
- Visit VA.gov/disability
- Call 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411)
- Or speak with a VA-accredited representative near you
Final Thought
VA disability compensation is more than a payment it’s a recognition of your service and sacrifice. Whether you served recently or decades ago, these benefits are here to help you live with dignity, stability, and peace of mind.
“You earned these benefits the day you took your oath,” says Veterans advocate Maria Reynolds. “Don’t leave what’s yours on the table apply today.”
Visit VA.gov/disability or call 1-800-MyVA411 to start your claim today.
FAQs
Who is eligible to apply?
You’re eligible if:
You have a current physical or mental health condition,
Your condition is linked to military service, and
You were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
What kinds of conditions are covered?
Both physical and mental health conditions may qualify including PTSD, hearing loss, back pain, cancers linked to toxic exposure, depression, or injuries from combat and training.
How are VA disability ratings determined?
VA assigns a percentage (10%–100%) based on how much your disability impacts your ability to work and perform daily tasks. Ratings are determined through medical evidence, service records, and Compensation & Pension (C&P) exams.
How much can I receive each month?
Payments range from about $180 (10% rating) to over $4,000 (100% rating) per month in 2025–2026. Additional compensation is available for dependents or if you qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
