The VA has increased the disability rates for veterans in 2020, but not by a considerable amount. The 1.6% increase is smaller than the one given in 2019 of 2.8%. The rate is a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), and designed to keep up with inflation. The new disability rates went into effect on December 1, 2019.
The VA is required to keep up with and match the COLA adjustments that are made to Social Security benefits.
From 10% to 20%
Veterans at these ratings will receive:
- At 10% disability, $142.29
- At 20% disability, $281.27
Veterans with these ratings don’t receive additional compensation for children, parents, or a spouse who receives aid and assistance.
Veterans In Other Rating Brackets
The rest of the VA’s new disability payment schedule is available on their website.
For veterans over 30%, disability payments are calculated according to:
- Status
- Dependents, including:
- Spouse
- Children
- Parents
- More than one child under 18 or in a qualifying school program if over 18
- A spouse who receives benefits for Aid & Assistance for daily activities, or “housebound” benefits
How Much Will I Receive?
The VA’s website offers a complete breakdown of the updated rates.
Determine your individual payment by starting with the basic rate for your status and rating, i.e., a veteran with no spouse or children. For instance, if you’re rated at 50%, without any qualifying dependents, i.e., spouse or children, your basic monthly payment is $893.43. Scroll down to the table with dependents, and a veteran with a spouse and 1 child that amount increases to $1,043.43 monthly. For a veteran with a child, a spouse, and two parents, the amount increases to $1,181.43.
Qualifying dependents include:
- Minors, children under 18
- Children who are still in school and between age 18 and 23
- A Spouse
- Parents who are also dependents
Once you’ve found the amount for your current living situation, you’ll be able to add up the amounts that you should receive and have an idea of what you’ll receive in monthly benefits.
Remember that your VA disability benefits are always tax-free.
What If I’m Under-Rated?
It’s possible that you are. If your condition has worsened, or you believe weren’t taken seriously the first time you were given a rating, maybe it’s time to consider requesting a review of your case. With the right documentation, you may be able to have your rating raised favorably.
If you are under-rated, it means you could be missing out on thousands of dollars in benefits that you’ve earned and are entitled to receive.
If you’re interested in a re-rating, seek assistance from a disability lawyer who understands the VA’s processes who will let you know what your chances are of an increase.
Get Help From A Houston VA Disability Attorney
Whether you’re ready to start your application, need help with an appeal, or want to investigate a case review, don’t try to face the VA alone. You do have the right to legal representation whether you’re starting your application, facing a hearing, or dealing with an appeal.
Call The Herren Law Firm in Houston at 713-682-8194 (or use our online contact form) to schedule your free consultation for VA disability benefits. Our contingency fee basis means you won’t owe a fee until we win your case, and there’s no obligation.
