Reviewed October 2, 2026. This guide replaces earlier incorrect rate and/or family-status examples. Keep the existing URL for reference, but use the corrected figures here. Household assumed: veteran alone, no dependents. No dependent parents, spouse Aid and Attendance, or additional awards are included unless expressly stated. The illustration compares a previously paid monthly amount of $2,362.30 with a new monthly amount of $4,078.45. These are 2026 rates effective December 1, 2025. Every illustrated month must use that rate schedule and the same eligible household. A period crossing a rate change must be divided into separate calculations. This example assumes one newly awarded SMC-K payment of $139.87 for every illustrated month, in addition to the 100% basic rate of $3,938.58. It must not be added again if it was already paid. SMC eligibility and effective dates require a separate VA determination.
Monthly difference: $4,078.45 − $2,362.30 = $1,716.15. For 6 full payable months: $1,716.15 × 6 = $10,296.90. For comparison only, twelve full months at the same difference would be $20,593.80. This is arithmetic, not a prediction of eligibility or an award. Do not add the full new monthly rate to amounts that VA already paid.
VA decides the effective date and when payment begins. An effective date is not automatically a payable month. The number of months between filing and a decision is not, by itself, the number of months owed. Calculate each period separately when the rate year, rating, dependent status, or amount already paid changes. Withholding, recoupment, staged ratings, and other adjustments can affect the final payment. Retain your award letter and payment history so you can compare the calculation with VA's explanation. A new claim or decision review requires the appropriate procedure and evidence. Check the deadline and review options in your letter. A calculation does not establish service connection or preserve a filing deadline; seek accredited assistance if you disagree with the decision.
The amounts above were checked against the official VA tables on October 2, 2026. Use the official source below and your award documents. No unannounced 2027 disability compensation increase is assumed. Use the calculator for planning and the Claim Wizard to organize questions. Neither tool files a claim, determines entitlement, or guarantees compensation.