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VA disability compensation

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Learn about VA disability pay (compensation) for Veterans, including ratings, which conditions qualify, and how to file a claim. Find out if you can get VA disability pay for a service-connected disability (an illness or injury caused or made worse by your service).
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VA disability compensation (pay) offers a monthly tax-free payment to Veterans who got sick or injured while serving in the military and to Veterans whose service made an existing condition worse. You may qualify for VA disability benefits for physical conditions (like a chronic illness or injury) and mental health conditions (like PTSD) that developed before, during, or after service. Find out how to apply for and manage the Veterans disability benefits you've earned.
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Get VA disability compensation (pay)
Eligibility
Find out if you’re eligible for VA disability benefits for a presumptive disability or other service-connected condition.
How to file a claim
Find out how to prepare and file a claim for disability compensation online or by phone or mail.
File a claim online (VA Form 21-526EZ)
Start your application for disability compensation now.
After you file your claim
Find out what happens after you file for VA disability compensation, how long it takes us to make a decision, and what to do if you disagree.
Compensation benefits for a surviving spouse and dependents (VA DIC)
Learn about getting VA disability benefits as a surviving spouse, dependent child, or parent.
Manage your Veterans disability benefits
Check your VA claim or appeal status
Track the status of your disability claim or appeal.
View your disability rating
View your VA disability ratings and which of your ratings are service-connected.
File for a VA disability increase
If your service-connected disability has gotten worse, find out how to file a claim to increase your disability rating.
Request a decision review or manage a legacy appeal
If you disagree with a decision on your disability claim, you can request a decision review. You can also manage any review requests or appeals you already filed.
Add or remove a dependent
Find out how and when to add a dependent spouse, child, or parent to your VA disability benefits. Also learn how to remove a dependent from your benefits.
Upload evidence to support your disability claim
Send us evidence (like doctor's reports, medical test results, or service records) to help support your open disability claim.
File additional forms for your disability claim
Find out if you'll need to turn in any additional forms to support your disability claim.
Change your VA direct deposit information
Find out how to change your direct deposit information online.
Share your VA medical records
Set up your personal health record and download reports to share with your VA and non-VA doctors.
Download your VA benefit letters
Download a copy of letters like your eligibility or award letter for certain benefits.
View your VA disability payments history
Check the status of your VA disability and pension payments. You can also see certain survivor benefits.
More information and resources
About VA disability ratings
Learn how we assign disability ratings and effective dates, and what to do after you get your rating.
Disability compensation effective dates
The effective date is the day you can start getting your disability benefits. Learn how we decide effective dates in different cases.
Review VA disability compensation rates
Check the Veterans compensation benefits rates tables to find your rate based on your disability rating and dependents.
DIC benefit rates for surviving spouses and children
Learn the current DIC benefit rates for spouses and children.
DIC benefit rates for surviving parents
Learn the current DIC benefit rates for surviving parents.
VA claim exam (C&P exam)
Find out why you might need a claim exam, how to schedule and prepare for your appointment, and what to expect during and after the exam.
Get help from an accredited representative
Connect with an accredited attorney, a claims agent, or a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for help applying for benefits.
Related Links
Other VA benefits and services
Disability housing grants for Veterans
Find out how to apply for a housing grant as a Veteran or service member with a service-connected disability.
Fiduciary services
Learn how to become a VA fiduciary to handle the financial affairs of a Veteran in need.
VA nursing homes, assisted living, and home health care
Explore long-term care options for Veterans and their caregivers.
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
Find out if you qualify for help exploring employment options, any education or training you may need, and other VR&E services.
Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance
Check if you're eligible for extra monthly pension payments if you need more aid than you're currently receiving.
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VA benefits hotline:
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Disability
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File a claim for disability compensation for conditions related to your military service, and manage your benefits over time.
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Disability