VA Disability Compensation
20% VA Disability Pay (2026)
A 20% VA disability rating pays $357/month in 2026 for a veteran with no dependents (dependents do not change the rate below 30%). VA disability compensation is tax-free.
Source: VA.gov disability compensation rates (effective 2025-12-01, 2.5% COLA-adjusted, for 2026).
| Dependent status | Monthly (2026) |
|---|---|
| Any veteran (dependents do not add under 30%) | $357 |
What a 20% rating means
At 20%, the VA pays a single flat monthly rate - dependents (spouse, children, parents) do not increase compensation until you reach 30%. The rate is tax-free and paid monthly.