VA Disability Rating 40%: What It Means and What Unlocks
What this rating means
A 40% rating pays monthly compensation above the 30% tier, with increased dependents rates at this level.
What unlocks at this level
Increased dependents rates at the 40% tier (source: VA.gov dependents and compensation rate tables)
Monthly compensation at the 40% tier - current amounts live in the 2026 VA Disability Pay Calculator (source: VA.gov current compensation rate tables)
Verification rider: every item cites its source page at VA.gov or the named official source; each row is re-verified quarterly.
What to check next
Check the Combined Ratings Explainer - the rounding cliff matters as combined values approach higher tiers.
Log functional impact for every rated condition - functional evidence is what rating criteria measure.
Route questions to a free accredited VSO; verify accreditation at the official VA accreditation search.
Bring it to a free accredited representative
Stand Easy Network teaches the process. A free, VA-accredited VSO (DAV, VFW, American Legion, county veterans service officers, and others) takes it from here. Never pay an unaccredited consultant for claims help - accredited representatives are free, and paid help is limited by law to specific accredited classes.
In crisis?
If you're a veteran in crisis, call the Veterans Crisis Line now: dial nine eight eight, then press one. Free, confidential, 24/7. Prefer to text? Message 838255. Or chat live at veteranscrisisline.net. For immediate danger, call 911.