2021 VA Disability Rates Calculator
Calculate your estimated VA disability compensation based on the 2021 rates. This tool provides an estimate only – for official calculations, consult the VA.
Comprehensive Guide to 2021 VA Disability Rates
The VA disability compensation program provides tax-free monthly payments to veterans with disabilities that are the result of a disease or injury incurred or aggravated during active military service. The 2021 VA disability rates saw a 1.3% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) from the previous year, reflecting changes in the Social Security Administration’s cost-of-living calculations.
How VA Disability Rates Are Determined
VA disability compensation is determined by two primary factors:
- Disability Rating: A percentage (from 0% to 100%) assigned by the VA based on the severity of your service-connected condition. This rating is determined through a VA claims exam and review of your medical evidence.
- Dependents Status: Whether you have a spouse, children, or dependent parents can increase your monthly compensation amount.
Additional allowances may be available for:
- Veterans who are housebound due to their disabilities
- Veterans who require the aid and attendance of another person
- Veterans with severe disabilities that prevent them from working
2021 VA Disability Compensation Rates
The following tables show the 2021 VA disability compensation rates for veterans with different disability ratings and dependent statuses. These rates were effective December 1, 2020.
2021 VA Disability Rates for Veterans Without Children
| Disability Rating (%) | Veteran Alone | Veteran with Spouse | Veteran with Spouse and One Parent | Veteran with Two Parents |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $144.14 | $160.89 | $177.64 | $194.39 |
| 20% | $284.93 | $321.87 | $358.81 | $395.75 |
| 30% | $441.35 | $508.05 | $574.75 | $641.45 |
| 40% | $635.77 | $731.07 | $826.37 | $921.67 |
| 50% | $905.04 | $1,041.04 | $1,177.04 | $1,313.04 |
2021 VA Disability Rates for Veterans with Children
| Disability Rating (%) | Veteran with Spouse and 1 Child | Veteran with Spouse and 2 Children | Add for Each Additional Child | Veteran with 1 Child (No Spouse) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30% | $551.35 | $594.65 | $33.30 | $477.35 |
| 40% | $774.07 | $817.37 | $43.30 | $679.37 |
| 50% | $1,094.04 | $1,147.04 | $53.00 | $950.04 |
| 60% | $1,214.03 | $1,277.03 | $63.00 | $1,062.73 |
| 70% | $1,529.95 | $1,602.95 | $73.00 | $1,365.43 |
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
Veterans with especially severe disabilities may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC), which provides additional tax-free benefits. SMC is available at various levels (SMC-K through SMC-R.2) depending on the veteran’s specific needs and circumstances.
Common situations that may qualify for SMC include:
- Loss of use of a hand or foot
- Loss of sight in one or both eyes
- Being permanently bedridden
- Requiring aid and attendance from another person
- Being housebound due to service-connected disabilities
How to Apply for VA Disability Benefits
To apply for VA disability compensation, you can:
- Apply Online: Using the VA’s eBenefits portal
- Apply by Mail: Send VA Form 21-526EZ to your local VA claims intake center
- Apply in Person: Visit your local VA regional office
- Work with an Accredited Representative: Many veterans service organizations (VSOs) can help you file your claim
When applying, you’ll need to provide:
- Your DD214 or other separation documents
- Medical evidence of your disability
- Service treatment records (if available)
- Any private medical records related to your disability
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing
Many veterans make errors that can delay their claims or result in lower ratings than they deserve. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Not providing enough evidence: The VA decides based on the evidence you provide. Medical records, buddy statements, and private doctor opinions can all help support your claim.
- Missing deadlines: If you’re filing an appeal, there are strict deadlines you must meet.
- Not listing all disabilities: File for all conditions that might be service-connected, even if they seem minor.
- Not getting help: VSOs and accredited attorneys can often help you present a stronger case.
- Giving up after a denial: Many valid claims are initially denied. You have the right to appeal.
How VA Disability Ratings Are Combined
The VA doesn’t simply add your disability ratings together. Instead, they use a combined ratings table that accounts for the “pyramiding” of disabilities. Here’s how it works:
- Your disabilities are listed in order of severity (highest rating first)
- The VA takes your highest rating and considers how much “efficient” capacity remains
- The next disability rating is applied to the remaining capacity
- This process continues until all disabilities are accounted for
For example, if you have a 50% disability and a 30% disability:
- Start with 50% (50% of 100 = 50)
- Take the remaining 50% capacity and apply 30% to it (30% of 50 = 15)
- Your combined rating would be 65%, which the VA rounds to the nearest 10% (70%)
VA Disability Back Pay
When you’re approved for VA disability benefits, you may receive back pay dating back to:
- The date you filed your intent to file (if you submitted one)
- The date you filed your formal claim
- The effective date of your disability (if you filed within one year of leaving service)
Back pay is typically paid in a lump sum. The amount depends on:
- Your disability rating
- How long your claim took to process
- Your dependent status during the back pay period
Tax Implications of VA Disability Benefits
VA disability compensation is not taxable income. This means:
- You don’t need to report it on your federal tax return
- It doesn’t count as income for most state tax purposes
- It generally doesn’t affect your eligibility for other benefits
However, there are some important exceptions:
- Some states may consider VA disability for certain benefits
- VA disability can affect your eligibility for means-tested programs in some cases
- If you receive both VA disability and military retirement pay, some portions may be taxable
Appealing a VA Disability Decision
If you disagree with the VA’s decision on your disability claim, you have several appeal options:
1. Supplemental Claim
File new and relevant evidence that the VA didn’t consider in their original decision. You have one year from the decision date to file.
2. Higher-Level Review
Request that a senior reviewer look at your case. No new evidence can be submitted with this option.
3. Board Appeal
Appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. You can choose between:
- Direct Review: No new evidence, fastest option
- Evidence Submission: Submit new evidence (90 days to submit)
- Hearing: Request a hearing with a Veterans Law Judge
The appeals process can be complex, and processing times vary. Many veterans find it helpful to work with an accredited representative during appeals.
Resources for Veterans
If you need help with your VA disability claim, these resources can provide assistance:
- VA Disability Compensation Official Page – The official VA site with comprehensive information about disability benefits
- VA WARMS Database – Searchable database of VA adjudication procedures
- Veterans Service Organizations – Find accredited representatives to help with your claim
- VA Office of General Counsel Accreditation – Verify if someone is accredited to help with VA claims
Important Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on the 2021 VA disability compensation rates. Your actual benefit amount may differ based on your specific circumstances. For official benefit calculations, please consult the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or an accredited VA claims representative. The information provided here is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such.