Veterans with an 80% disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are entitled to significant financial support. This rating indicates that a veteran’s service-connected conditions severely limit their ability to earn a full income but stop short of complete disability. If you’re rated at 80%, you may be eligible for monthly compensation ranging from $2,044.89 to over $2,600, depending on your dependents and circumstances.
Here’s a full breakdown of what you can expect from your benefits.
What Does an 80% VA Disability Rating Mean?
The VA assigns disability ratings in 10% increments, based on the severity of a veteran’s service-connected conditions. An 80% rating reflects considerable impairment, though it does not qualify for the maximum benefit tier. It still unlocks tax-free monthly payments, health care, education benefits, and other supportive programs.
The compensation is also tiered by dependent status, meaning your payment increases if you have a spouse, child, or dependent parent.
Monthly VA Disability Compensation for 80% Rating (2025)
Without Children
| Dependent Status | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Veteran alone | $2,044.89 |
| Veteran with spouse | $2,214.89 |
| Veteran with spouse and 1 parent | $2,351.89 |
| Veteran with spouse and 2 parents | $2,488.89 |
| Veteran with 1 parent only | $2,181.89 |
| Veteran with 2 parents only | $2,318.89 |
With Children
| Dependent Status | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Veteran with 1 child only | $2,158.89 |
| Veteran with spouse and 1 child | $2,340.89 |
| With spouse, 1 child, and 1 parent | $2,477.89 |
| With spouse, 1 child, and 2 parents | $2,614.89 |
| Veteran with 1 child and 1 parent | $2,295.89 |
| Veteran with 1 child and 2 parents | $2,432.89 |
Additional Monthly Add-Ons
Veterans may receive extra monthly compensation based on specific family circumstances:
| Condition | Additional Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Each child under age 18 | $84 |
| Each child over age 18 (in approved school) | $274 |
| Spouse eligible for Aid and Attendance (A&A) | $157 |
These supplemental amounts help support families dealing with education costs or caregiving needs.
How to Apply for or Update VA Compensation
If you’re already rated at 80% and haven’t received full benefits based on your dependents or spouse’s health, follow these steps:
- Apply Online – Use VA.gov to update your dependent status or submit new claims.
- Visit a VA Regional Office – Get face-to-face assistance.
- Speak With a VSO (Veterans Service Officer) – They can help with filing claims or navigating appeals.
- Use VA Form 21-686c – This form is used to declare dependents and receive increased benefits.
The VA will adjust your payment once your application is reviewed and approved.
Final Thoughts
An 80% VA disability rating offers substantial monthly support, especially when dependents are included. With proper documentation, you may receive over $2,600 per month, plus additional allowances for children and caregiving needs.
These payments reflect your service and the impact your disability has had on your ability to work. If you haven’t claimed all you’re entitled to, now’s the time to ensure your benefits are updated.
FAQs:
What is the monthly compensation for an 80% VA disability rating?
A single veteran with no dependents receives $2,044.89 per month. The amount increases with each qualifying dependent.
How much more do veterans with children receive?
For one child, the base payment increases to $2,158.89. Additional children under 18 add $84 each, while those over 18 in school add $274 each.
What is Aid and Attendance for spouses?
If your spouse requires assistance with daily living tasks, you can receive $157 extra per month under the Aid and Attendance provision.
How do I apply for dependent-related benefits?
Use VA Form 21-686c to report dependents, or update your claim through your VA.gov account or with help from a VSO.
