VA Lifetime Benefit Estimator
How much more could a higher VA rating pay over time? Compare monthly, yearly, and lifetime pay at two ratings.
Free · No account needed · Private · About 2 minutes
How it works
- 1
Pick two ratings
Choose your current rating and a rating you want to compare.
- 2
Add a few details
Enter your age and any dependents. You can also add a yearly cost-of-living raise.
- 3
See the difference
Compare monthly, yearly and estimated lifetime pay side by side.
What you get
- Monthly and yearly pay at both ratings
- An estimated lifetime difference
- An option to include a yearly cost-of-living raise
- How dependents may change the numbers
What this tool does
- • Uses 2026 VA pay rates for Veterans and dependents
- • Uses average life expectancy for your age to estimate lifetime pay
- • Lets you test different ratings in seconds
What this tool does not do
- • Does not predict what rating the VA will give you
- • Does not file a claim or appeal
- • Does not include special monthly compensation (SMC) or TDIU
How much more could a higher VA rating pay over time?
Small rating changes can mean a lot over years. VA pay does not rise evenly. The jump from one rating to the next grows larger at higher ratings, and dependents only add pay from 30% and up.
The estimator takes the 2026 monthly amounts for both ratings, multiplies by 12 for a yearly figure, and then uses average life expectancy for your age to estimate a lifetime total. You can add a yearly cost-of-living raise to see how that may change the picture.
These are estimates, not promises. Your real pay depends on what the VA decides, future cost-of-living changes and your own situation.
Common questions
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Words to know
Last reviewed September 26, 2026. For general information only, not legal or medical advice.
Sources: VA: Disability compensation rates · VA: About disability ratings