Veterans with service-connected disabilities receive compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Their disability rating determines the amount.
A 40% disability rating is a common level for many veterans.
This blog will explore how much the VA pays for a 40% disability rating, both for veterans with and without dependents.
We’ll break down the pay rates and provide essential information to help veterans fully understand their entitlements.
How Much Does VA Pay for a 40% Disability Rating?
The compensation a veteran receives for a service-connected disability is based on the VA disability rating system.
Veterans with a 40% disability rating are entitled to monthly compensation based on this rating. It is a reflection of how much their disability impacts their ability to work and live daily life.
However, the amount of compensation varies depending on whether the veteran has dependents, such as a spouse or children.
VA Disability Compensation for 40% Rating
For the 2025 fiscal year, the monthly compensation for a veteran with a 40% disability rating is as follows-
- Veteran Alone (no dependents): $774.16
- Veteran with Spouse: $859.16
- Veteran with Spouse and One Child: $922.16
- Veteran with Spouse and Two Children: $943.16
- Veteran with Spouse and Three Children: $985.16
These figures reflect the basic pay without considering any additional special circumstances or benefits. The compensation amount is designed to help cover the-
- Cost of living
- Medical expenses and
- Other needs related to the veteran’s disability
It’s important to note that these rates are regularly adjusted for inflation. So, they may increase annually.
How Dependents Impact VA Disability Pay
The VA considers dependents (such as spouses, children, and sometimes parents) when determining the compensation rate.
Dependents are considered part of the veteran’s household, and their inclusion increases the amount the VA pays.
- Spouse: A veteran’s spouse adds a fixed amount to the compensation. If the veteran has a dependent spouse, the monthly pay is higher than if the veteran is single.
- Children: The VA also provides additional compensation for dependent children. It is adjusted based on the number of children and their ages.
Generally, the VA considers children under the age of 18, or under 23 if they are enrolled in school full-time as dependents.
Table of 40% VA Disability Pay Rates (2025)
The following table showcases the VA pay rates for a 40% disability rating based on the veteran’s status-
| Veteran’s Status | Monthly Compensation (2025) |
| Veteran Alone (No Dependent) | $774.16 |
| Veteran with Spouse | $859.16 |
| Veteran with Spouse and 1 Parent | $927.16 |
| Veteran with Spouse and 2 Parents | $995.16 |
| Veteran with 1 Parent (No Spouse or Children) | $842.16 |
| Veteran with 2 Parents (No Spouse or Children) | $910.16 |
| Veteran with 1 Child only (No Spouse or Parents) | $831.16 |
| Veteran with Spouse and 1 Child | $922.16 |
| Veteran with Spouse, 1 Child, and 1 Parent | $990.16 |
| Veteran with Spouse, 1 Child, and 2 Parents | $1,058.16 |
| Veteran with 1 Child and 1 Parent (No Spouse) | $899.16 |
| Veteran with 1 Child and 2 Parents (No Spouse) | $967.16 |
Additional Compensation for Special Circumstances
In some cases, veterans may qualify for additional compensation through Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
This applies to veterans who have certain conditions that require additional care. One such case is when someone needs assistance with daily living activities or has severe disabilities that impair mobility.
Veterans may also receive SMC if they have a loss of use of a limb or have other qualifying conditions (like blindness or needing aid and attendance).
If a veteran is eligible for aid and attendance (A&A) or other special circumstances, this can significantly increase their monthly benefit amount.
However, eligibility for these additional benefits is determined on a case-by-case basis. You must submit specific medical evidence to demonstrate the need.
Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)
Each year, the VA adjusts disability compensation rates to keep pace with inflation through Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA).
While these increases are typically small, they ensure that veterans’ compensation retains its purchasing power over time.
These adjustments are often announced each fall and applied to payments in January.
Other Benefits of a 40% Disability Rating
In addition to monthly compensation, veterans with a 40% disability rating are entitled to a range of other benefits.
These benefits cover everything from health care to educational assistance and financial aid for housing.
Health Care Benefits
Veterans with a 40% disability rating are generally eligible for VA health care at little to no cost. VA health care provides access to a wide range of medical services, including-
- Hospital care
- Outpatient treatment
- Mental health services and,
- Prescription medications
Co-pays may apply for certain services depending on the veteran’s financial situation and priority group. However, veterans rated 40% or higher typically fall into Priority Group 1.
This level covers all VA medical services at no cost. It includes medical treatment for service-connected conditions and making health care accessible without high expenses.
Education and Training
Veterans with a 40% disability rating are eligible for educational benefits through programs such as the-
- Post-9/11 GI Bill or
- Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program
The Post-9/11 GI Bill can provide tuition assistance, a housing allowance, and a book stipend for eligible veterans to attend college or vocational training programs.
Veterans may also qualify for the VR&E program. It is specifically designed to help veterans with disabilities find suitable employment or further their education.
Housing Assistance
Veterans with a 40% disability rating may be eligible for housing assistance through programs like the-
- Specially Adapted Housing (SAH)
- Special Housing Adaptation (SHA)
These grants help veterans adapt or purchase homes that accommodate their disabilities.
In addition, some veterans can receive a housing allowance if their disability prevents them from working and requires additional support for daily living.
Life Insurance
Veterans with a 40% disability rating are eligible for Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI). It’s a program that provides affordable life insurance coverage for veterans after separation from service.
This coverage can be extended regardless of a veteran’s health status. This is particularly helpful for those with service-connected conditions.
Veterans can also apply for Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI). The benefit offers additional life insurance options if they have a service-related disability.
Financial and Other Benefits
Veterans with a 40% disability rating may also qualify for other financial benefits like-
- Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for their survivors or
- Automobile Allowance for veterans who have certain disabilities affecting their mobility
Additionally, veterans with a 40% rating might receive property tax exemptions or discounts in certain states.
Common Disabilities the VA Assigns a 40% Rating On
A 40% disability rating from the VA can be assigned for a variety of conditions. The VA assigns this rating to conditions that result in moderate to severe impairment but not total disability.
While every case is unique, certain conditions are more commonly rated at 40%. Let’s explore some in this section.
Musculoskeletal Disabilities
One of the most common categories for a 40% disability rating includes musculoskeletal conditions, such as-
- Chronic back pain
- Arthritis
- joint problems
For example, suppose a veteran is suffering from degenerative disc disease or degenerative arthritis of the spine. Here, they may receive a 40% rating if their condition significantly limits their ability to perform daily tasks or work.
When assigning a rating, the VA considers-
- The range of motion
- The severity of pain and
- How the condition interferes with the veteran’s functional ability
Other musculoskeletal conditions like knee injuries, shoulder problems, or hip replacements can also result in a 40% disability rating.
These conditions are typically evaluated by examining the veteran’s range of motion and use of assistive devices (e.g., braces or crutches).
The degree of pain or limitations experienced during physical activities is also a major factor during the evaluation.
Mental Health Conditions
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety disorders are also commonly rated at 40%. Veterans who experience moderate to severe symptoms may qualify for a 40% rating.
The VA uses a general rating formula to assess the severity of mental health conditions, considering symptoms such as-
- Mood swings
- Intrusive thoughts
- Sleep disturbances and,
- How the disorder impacts the veteran’s functioning
For example, a veteran with PTSD who has-
- Frequent nightmares
- A heightened startle response and,
- Difficulty working or interacting socially
-may receive a 40% rating.
The severity of the condition is determined by examining medical records, therapy sessions, and testimony from the veteran.
Neurological and Sensory Conditions
Tinnitus, a condition commonly associated with military service, is often rated at 40%. It is especially assigned when it significantly disrupts the veteran’s ability to concentrate or sleep.
Other neurological conditions, such as migraines and severe headaches, can also result in a 40% rating if they are frequent and debilitating.
Additionally, conditions like diabetic neuropathy or peripheral vascular disease may be rated at 40%. However, the veteran must experience moderate functional limitations in this case.
These conditions can cause pain, numbness, or weakness.
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Conditions
Certain heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, or congestive heart failure, can be rated at 40% (depending on their severity).
The VA evaluates the veteran’s symptoms, exercise tolerance, and any related hospitalizations. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma are also conditions commonly rated at 40% if they cause-
- Frequent flare-ups
- Require frequent treatment or
- Interfere with the veteran’s ability to engage in physical activities
How Can I Increase My Disability Rating Above 40%?
For many veterans, a 40% disability rating is a starting point, but it’s not necessarily the final level of compensation or recognition for their service-connected disabilities. If a veteran’s condition worsens over time or if additional disabilities arise, they may qualify for an increase in their disability rating. Increasing a VA disability rating requires a strategic approach, providing updated evidence and following specific steps to ensure the VA recognizes the extent of the disability.
Requesting a Reevaluation
If a veteran’s condition has worsened, they can request a reevaluation of their disability rating. The first step is to file a Claim for Increased Disability Compensation through the VA.
The veteran must provide new medical evidence that shows how their disability has progressed.
This might include updated medical records or new diagnoses that demonstrates the increased severity of the condition.
For example, a veteran with a back injury might be rated at 40% due to limited mobility.
If the injury worsens a new examination or updated imaging results (such as X-rays or MRIs) can support a claim for an increased rating.
Filing for Secondary Disabilities
In some cases, veterans experience secondary disabilities, meaning one condition worsens or causes another.
For instance, a veteran with a knee injury might develop chronic back pain due to altered walking patterns.
You can file claims for these secondary disabilities. In that case, the VA will combine the ratings for the primary and secondary conditions to calculate the total disability rating.
Secondary conditions are evaluated based on how the original disability has aggravated or led to new medical issues.
To succeed in such claims, provide medical evidence from healthcare professionals. This evidence must link the secondary condition to the service-connected disability.
Appealing the Rating Decision
If a veteran believes that their 40% rating is incorrect or doesn’t fully reflect the severity of their condition, they can appeal the decision. The VA offers several methods of appeal, such as-
- Higher-Level Review: A new VA officer reviews the case to determine if there was an error in the original decision.
- Board of Veterans’ Appeals: If the initial review doesn’t yield a favorable outcome, the veteran can appeal to the Board, which might request additional evidence or hearings.
Appealing a decision can be a lengthy process, but it is an option for those who feel their condition warrants a higher rating.
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
Veterans with certain severe conditions may also be eligible for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). SMC is awarded in addition to the regular disability compensation for veterans who suffer from specific impairments,
Some examples of such impairments are the loss of a limb, severe mobility issues, or the need for assistance with daily activities.
Although SMC doesn’t directly increase the disability rating, it provides significant additional financial support.
Conclusion
If your 40% VA disability rating no longer reflects the extent of your disability, there are multiple ways to seek an increase.
Providing updated medical evidence, including recent diagnoses or treatment records, is key to supporting your claim.
Consult with a VA representative or accredited attorney to explore your options and ensure you are receiving the compensation you deserve.