For many veterans, navigating the VA disability compensation system can feel like a full-time job. Between proving service-connected conditions, staying current with paperwork, and understanding how dependents affect payments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
If you’re one of the thousands of veterans rated at 90%, you might be asking yourself a very common question: how much will I receive if I have just one child? Let’s break it down in simple terms and see what the updated 2025 numbers look like.
Increase
As of December 1, 2024, the VA applied a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to disability pay rates for 2025. This annual increase helps ensure that veterans’ benefits keep up with inflation and rising living costs.
Thanks to this adjustment, monthly compensation amounts have slightly increased across all disability levels — including for those rated at 90%.
Pay
So, what exactly does a 90% VA disability rating get you in 2025 if you have one dependent child?
You’ll now receive $2,425.96 per month.
This rate applies only if you’re single with one dependent child. If you have additional dependents — like a spouse, another child, or a dependent parent — your monthly benefit amount will increase.
Here’s a quick look at how those numbers stack up:
| Veteran Status | Monthly Pay (90% Rating) |
|---|---|
| Veteran alone | $2,241.91 |
| Veteran with one child | $2,425.96 |
| Veteran with spouse + one child | $2,630.96 |
Keep in mind: Any change in your household — marriage, divorce, a new child, or the loss of a dependent — needs to be reported to the VA immediately. These updates directly affect your monthly pay.
Benefits
Beyond the money, veterans with a 90% rating are placed in VA Health Care Priority Group 1. That’s a big deal because it means you get priority access to a wide range of healthcare services, many without copays.
This includes preventive care, mental health services, dental care, specialist visits, and even long-term care support in some cases.
Upgrade
Another important point to remember: If your service-connected condition worsens or you’re diagnosed with a new disability, you might qualify for a 100% rating.
Jumping from 90% to 100% not only increases your monthly payments but can also unlock permanent, lifetime benefits — like property tax exemptions, commissary privileges, and additional educational support for your dependents.
It’s not always an easy process, though. You’ll need up-to-date medical evidence and might want to get assistance from an accredited VA representative or veteran service organization (VSO) to guide you through a new claim.
Reminder
In short, if you’re a veteran rated at 90% with one child, your current VA disability compensation is $2,425.96 per month in 2025.
But life changes — so make sure you stay on top of reporting household updates and medical changes to the VA. Staying informed and proactive can help protect your financial security and healthcare access in the long run.
FAQs
What is the 2025 VA COLA increase?
The VA disability pay rates increased by 2.5% for 2025.
How much is 90% VA disability with one child?
It’s $2,425.96 per month in 2025.
Do VA benefits increase with a spouse?
Yes, a spouse increases your monthly benefit amount.
Can a 90% rating be upgraded to 100%?
Yes, if conditions worsen or new ones develop.
Does a 90% rating include free VA healthcare?
Yes, through VA Health Care Priority Group 1.
