Veterans with a service-related disability and an "other than dishonorable" discharge can qualify for a monthly tax-free VA Disability Compensation benefit ranging from $133 to over $3,400 every month.
You could be paid more if:
- you have very severe disabilities or loss of limb(s)
- you have a spouse, child(ren), or dependent parent(s)
- you have a seriously disabled spouse
- you are considered unemployable due to your disability
How To Apply For VA Disability Compensation
For the fastest service you should apply online through the VA.GOV website, you should submit supporting documents with your claim for benefits. You should send the VA copies of medical evidence (both military and civilian), your discharge paperwork, and anything else you may think is necessary. Remember, you can never provide the VA too much information!
In certain circumstances you can apply for benefits before being discharged from the military, please visit our Pre-Discharge Program for Disability Compensation page for details.
Special Monthly Compensation
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is paid in addition to the regular VA Disability Compensation. It is normally limited to veterans who suffered the loss or loss of use of certain organs or extremities. For details, see our SMC overview page.
VA Travel Reimbursement For Disabled Veterans
VA can pay travel reimbursement to certain veterans who have to travel to medical appointments. Reimbursement for mileage or public transportation can be paid to:
- Service-connected veterans with 30% or greater disability
- Veterans traveling for treatment of a service-connected condition
- VA pension recipients
- Veterans traveling for scheduled compensation or pension exams
- Certain low-income veterans
Mileage will be reimbursed at 41.5 cents per mile. There is a deductible of $3.00 one way and $6.00 per round trip. The deductible is also subject to a monthly cap of $18.00, when you reach $18.00 in travel payments in a month, the remainder of that month will be free of the deductible. The deductible can be waived in certain cases.
Stay on Top of Your Veteran Benefits
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