90% VA Disability Pay Explained for Veterans With One Dependent Child

For most veterans, the VA disability system is a language all its own. From establishing service-connected conditions to following paperwork and staying current on fluctuating pay rates, it can become complicated quickly.

You’re 90% rated and need to know how much you’ll be paid in 2025, especially if you have a dependent—hello, welcome here.

Let’s simplify it.

Increase

First, some positive news for 2025. the VA implemented a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to disability compensation rates. This raise applies to monthly compensation figures at all rating levels, including the 90% disability level.

Why is this important? Because even a small percentage increase can make a noticeable impact over a year, particularly when dependents are included.

Payment

So, how much are you really receiving if you’re 90% disabled with one child and no spouse or other dependents? As of 2025, that’s $2,425.96 a month.

And what if you’re married or caring for other family members? Those figures increase. The VA increases monthly rates according to the size of your household because more individuals equate to greater financial burden.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Family Situation	Monthly Compensation (2025)
Veteran alone	$2,212.96
Veteran with one child	$2,425.96
Veteran with spouse + one child	$2,630.96

Each extra child or dependent parent brings a bit extra to your monthly payment. That’s why it’s important to let the VA know if your household is changing — through marriage, divorce, having a baby, or a dependent parent moving in.

Benefits

A 90% disability rating does more than provide an explanation of monthly pay. Veterans receiving this also get VA Health Care Priority Group 1, which includes coverage for services such as preventive care, dental care, mental health services, surgery, and medications .

This can save thousands a year, particularly for those dealing with long-term medical issues.

Upgrade

If you suffer a worsening of your condition or develop a new service-connected disability, it may be worth petitioning for an increase to 100%. Reaching that top-billing rating gains you lifetime benefits in some instances and increases your monthly payment considerably.

Going from 90% to 100% isn’t done automatically. It involves new medical records, new claims, and often the help of an accredited VA representative. But for many veterans, it’s worth the trouble.

[also_read id=”3136″]

Next

If you’re rated at 90% now, take a moment to review your dependents listed with the VA. Are your children, spouse, or dependent parents accurately reflected? Keeping this info current ensures you’re getting every dollar you’re entitled to.

And if your health situation has changed, talk to your VA representative about whether a claim for an increased rating makes sense.

Knowing your VA disability pay is important, particularly if there are dependents. For those with a 90% rating and one dependent child, the $2,425.96 monthly payment in 2025 indicates the VA’s attempt to offer significant support. 

The tax-free pay can go a long way toward taking care of family expenses and making ends meet. If you feel that your condition has deteriorated or your circumstances alter, it is crucial to look into alternatives such as TDIU or further dependent benefits. Being informed allows you to obtain every dollar to which you are entitled as a parent and a veteran.

FAQS: