2026 VA Disability Compensation
50% VA Disability Pay
A 50% VA disability rating pays the amounts below each month, tax-free. These are the 2026 rates, effective December 1, 2025.
$1,132.90/mo
50% — veteran with no dependents
50% VA disability monthly pay by dependents
| Your situation | Monthly (tax-free) |
|---|
| Veteran alone (no dependents) | $1,132.90 |
| With spouse (no children) | $1,241.90 |
| With spouse and 1 child | $1,322.90 |
| With spouse and 2 children | $1,376.90 |
| With 1 child (no spouse) | $1,205.90 |
| With 1 dependent parent | $1,220.90 |
| With 2 dependent parents | $1,308.90 |
| With spouse and 1 parent | $1,329.90 |
Added amounts (on top of the above)
| Each additional child under 18 | +$54.00 |
| Each child 18+ in a qualifying school program | +$176.00 |
| Spouse receiving Aid & Attendance | +$101.00 |
How VA pays your rating
VA pays compensation in 10% steps from 10% to 100%, and the amount is the same nationwide. If you have multiple conditions, VA combines them with its own math (not simple addition) and rounds to the nearest 10% — so a combined 75% pays at the 80% rate. Use the calculator to see where your conditions land.
Calculate your combined rating → Full pay-rate chart →
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Common questions
How much is 50% VA disability per month in 2026?
50% VA disability pays $1,132.90 per month for a veteran with no dependents, effective December 1, 2025. With dependents it is higher — for example $1,241.90 with a spouse.
Is VA disability compensation taxable?
No. VA disability compensation is not taxed by the federal government or by states.
When did these rates take effect?
These are the 2026 rates, effective December 1, 2025. VA adjusts them each year for cost of living (COLA).
Does 50% VA disability include money for a spouse and kids?
Yes. At 50% VA adds dependent amounts — $1,241.90 with a spouse, $1,322.90 with a spouse and one child, plus $54.00 for each additional child under 18.
Rates shown are the VA disability compensation rates effective December 1, 2025 (the 2026 rates), verified against VA.gov. VA adjusts rates annually for cost of living. Always confirm the current amount for your situation at VA.gov. VA Ready is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and this page is not financial or legal advice.