In September 2024, veterans receiving disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can expect a payment of up to $3,600. This payment is part of the VA’s regular disability compensation program, which provides tax-free monthly benefits to veterans who have sustained service-connected disabilities and have received an “other than dishonorable” discharge. These payments are crucial for many veterans, especially given the rising cost of living and the ongoing financial challenges faced by those with significant disabilities.
VA disability compensation
VA disability compensation is a critical benefit for veterans who have been injured or have become ill as a result of their military service. The compensation is tax-free and is intended to help veterans manage the financial burdens associated with their service-related disabilities. The compensation a veteran receives depends on the severity of their disability, which is rated on a scale from 10% to 100%.
In 2024, veterans receiving disability payments received a 3.2% increase in their benefits. This cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) reflects veterans’ increasing costs and ensures that their benefits keep pace with inflation.
Eligibility criteria for VA disability benefits
To qualify for VA disability compensation, veterans must meet several criteria:
- Service-connected disabilities: Veterans must have a disability that is directly connected to their military service. This can include physical injuries, mental health conditions, or illnesses that developed or worsened during active duty.
- Disability Rating: The VA assigns a disability rating based on the severity of the veteran’s condition. This rating ranges from 10% to 100%, with higher ratings resulting in higher monthly compensation.
- Current Diagnosis: Veterans must have a current diagnosis of a disability or medical condition linked to their military service.
September 2024 payment schedule
The VA typically disburses disability payments on the first business day of the following month. For September 2024, however, the payment will be issued on Tuesday, October 1st.
Basic monthly rates for veterans without a spouse or dependent
- 10% disability rating: $171.23 per month
- 20% disability rating: $338.49 per month
- 30% disability rating: $524.31 per month
- 40% disability rating: $755.28 per month
- 50% disability rating: $1,075.16 per month
- 60% disability rating: $1,361.88 per month
- 70% disability rating: $1,716.28 per month
- 80% disability rating: $1,995.01 per month
- 90% disability rating: $2,241.91 per month
- 100% disability rating: $3,737.85 per month
Who gets up to $3600?
Only veterans with a 100% disability rating can receive up to or more than $3,600 in September 2024. The exact amount a veteran receives is determined by several factors, including their disability rating and whether they have dependents such as a spouse or children.
Veterans with a 100% disability rating can expect the following basic monthly rates, based on their dependent status:
Basic monthly rates for 100% disability rating
| Dependent Status | 100% disability rating (in US $) |
| Veteran alone (no dependents) | 3,737.85 |
| With one parent (no spouse or children) | 3,905.11 |
| With two parents (no spouse or children) | 4,072.37 |
| With spouse (no parents or children) | 3,946.25 |
| With a spouse and one parent (no children) | 4,113.51 |
| With a spouse and two parents (no children) | 4, 280.77 |
| Veteran with one child only (no spouse or parents) | 3,877.22 |
| With one child and spouse (no parents) | 4,098.87 |
| With one child, spouse, and one parent | 4,266.13 |
| With one child, spouse, and two parents | 4,433.39 |
| With one child and one parent | 4,044.48 |
| With one child and two parents (no spouse) | 4,211.74 |
Data Source: VA Gov
Additional benefits and consideration
In addition to the standard disability compensation, veterans may be eligible for other benefits, including;
- Special Monthly Compensation (SMC): This is for veterans with special disabilities, such as the loss of use of a limb or blindness, which require a higher level of compensation.
- Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): This benefit is available to surviving spouses and children of veterans who died in service or from a service-connected condition.
- Education and Training: Under the GI Bill, veterans and their dependents may be eligible for education and training benefits.
- Healthcare Services: Veterans have access to comprehensive medical care through the VA healthcare system, which includes routine care, specialized treatment, and mental health services.
