20% VA disability pay rate (2026)

Source: VA.gov compensation rates, effective 2025-12-01, retrieved 2026-06-11.

A 20% rating pays $356.66 per month in 2026. Ratings of 10% and 20% pay a flat amount: dependents do not change the figure. Dependent additions begin at 30%.

The 20% flat rate and the bilateral math

Like 10%, the 20% rating pays a flat $356.66 per month regardless of dependents. That flat-rate structure ends here: at 30% and above, each dependent category carries a distinct monthly amount.

A common scenario is two 20% ratings in bilateral limbs, for example left and right shoulder. Under §4.26, the bilateral group combines first: 20 + (20 × 80 / 100) = 20 + 16 = 36. The bilateral factor adds 10% of 36 = 3.6, giving 39.6, which rounds to 40 before conversion. The final rating is 40%. Without the bilateral factor the combined value stays at 36, which converts to 40% in this case as well, but nearer the rounding boundary the factor often pushes veterans into the next band. Two 20% ratings on the same side would combine to the same 36 without the extra 3.6. See the bilateral factor page for the full worked formula.

Check the math behind your rating

Your combined rating is calculated under 38 CFR §4.25 and §4.26, and the final number is rounded to the nearest 10. Whether you sit at 20% or one band higher can come down to a few points. Run your conditions through the calculator to see your combined value before rounding, and read how the bilateral factor works if you have conditions in both arms or both legs.

If VA owes you money back to an earlier effective date, estimate your back pay or read how back pay is calculated. If your decision letter's rating is lower than the math supports, see what to do after a VA decision you disagree with.