Millions of American veterans are set to receive their monthly disability compensation in August.
Why It Matters
About 6.2 million veterans in the United States receive disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
These payments, which are issued monthly and are not taxed, go to veterans with service-connected disabilities—conditions that either began or worsened during their military service.
The program also offers support to surviving relatives of deceased service members, including spouses, dependent children and parents.
When Are VA Benefits Paid in August?
In August, benefits are scheduled to be paid on the 29th, according to Veterans Guide.
Following on from the August disbursement, further payments are expected on these dates:
- Wednesday, October 1, for September
- Friday, October 31, for October
- Monday, December 1, for November
- Wednesday, December 31, for December
Those whose VA disability payments do not arrive as scheduled should contact the veterans benefits hotline at 800-827-1000, which is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET. They can also visit their nearest VA benefits office for in-person support.
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How Much Can You Get?
The amount of compensation a veteran receives is determined primarily by two factors: their VA-assigned disability rating and whether they have dependents—such as a spouse, children or parents. Disability ratings are issued in 10 percent increments—10 percent, 20 percent and so forth—and the higher the rating, the larger the monthly compensation. When multiple service-connected conditions exist, the VA calculates a combined disability rating to determine the final benefit amount.
Every qualifying veteran is entitled to a base level of compensation. For instance, those with a 10 percent rating receive $175.51 per month, while a 20 percent rating increases that to $346.95.
Veterans who receive the maximum rating of 100 percent and have a spouse, one child and two dependent parents are eligible for the highest standard monthly benefit of $4,544.23. Additional amounts may be paid for extra children or other qualifying dependents.
You can view a full breakdown of benefit amounts on the VA website.
Who Qualifies for VA Benefits?
The VA recognizes numerous medical issues as grounds for receiving disability benefits. Physical health problems that may qualify include these:
- Chronic back issues tied to a diagnosed condition
- Respiratory difficulties resulting from lung disease
- Significant hearing impairment
- Scarring from surgery or injury
- Limited movement or mobility
- Ulcers
- Cancers or other illnesses caused by exposure to toxins or hazardous environments
Mental health conditions may also be eligible, such as these:
- Anxiety disorders and depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Conditions resulting from military sexual trauma
According to Veterans Guide, some of the most frequently cited conditions for VA disability include tinnitus, PTSD, hearing loss and mobility-impairing injuries.