Question 1

What are the 2026 VA disability compensation rates?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 VA disability rates (effective December 1, 2025) reflect a 2.8% COLA increase. Rates for a veteran alone range from $180.42/month at 10% to $3,938.58/month at 100%. Veterans rated 30% or higher receive additional compensation for dependents under 38 C.F.R. § 3.23.

Question 2

What is the 2026 VA disability rate for a 70% rating?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 VA disability rate for a 70% rating is $1,808.45/month for a veteran alone. With a spouse the rate increases under 38 C.F.R. § 3.23. Use the calculator above to compute your exact pay with dependents.

Question 3

What is the 2026 VA disability rate for a 100% rating?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 VA disability rate for a 100% rating is $3,938.58/month for a veteran alone, and $4,158.17/month with a spouse. All VA disability compensation is tax-free under federal and state law.

Question 4

How does VA combined rating math work?

Accepted Answer

VA uses the "whole person" method under 38 C.F.R. § 4.25. Each rating reduces the remaining efficiency rather than stacking additively. Example: 50% + 30% = 50% of 100 (leaving 50) + 30% of 50 (15) = 65%, rounded to 70%.

Question 5

What is a secondary service-connected condition?

Accepted Answer

Under 38 C.F.R. § 3.310, a secondary condition is proximately caused or aggravated by an already service-connected disability. Common examples include PTSD causing sleep apnea, lumbar strain causing radiculopathy, and diabetes causing peripheral neuropathy.

Question 6

What is SMC-K and how much does it pay in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Special Monthly Compensation Level K (SMC-K) under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(k) provides an additional $139.87/month in 2026 for qualifying anatomical loss or loss of use. SMC-K is paid in addition to the standard combined rating pay.

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