Quick Answer: Veterans rated 30% or higher can receive additional monthly compensation for eligible dependents — a spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents. In 2026, adding a spouse to a 70% rating adds $168/month. A child adds $33–$103/month depending on rating level. These additions are retroactive to the date you file.
Who Qualifies as a Dependent for VA Purposes?
- Spouse: Including common-law spouses in states that recognize them. Surviving spouses receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) do not qualify.
- Dependent children: Unmarried children under 18; unmarried children between 18–23 attending school full-time; children of any age who became permanently incapable of self-support before age 18
- Dependent parents: Parents who are financially dependent on the veteran — VA uses an income threshold to determine parent dependency
2026 Dependent Rate Additions (Selected Ratings)
| Rating | Veteran Alone | With Spouse | With Spouse + 1 Child |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30% | $524.31 | $586.31 | $621.31 |
| 50% | $1,075.16 | $1,196.16 | $1,246.16 |
| 70% | $1,716.28 | $1,884.28 | $1,951.28 |
| 100% | $3,737.85 | $4,067.85 | $4,170.85 |
How to Add Dependents
Complete VA Form 21-686c (Declaration of Status of Dependents) online at VA.gov or through an accredited VSO. For school-aged children (18–23), also submit VA Form 21-674 (Request for Approval of School Attendance). The effective date for dependent additions is typically the date the VA receives the form — file immediately when you marry, have a child, or a dependent child enrolls in school.
Aid and Attendance for Veterans With Spouses
If your spouse requires the regular aid and attendance of another person, you may be entitled to an additional allowance under Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). This is separate from the dependent rate increase and can significantly increase monthly compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a dependent retroactively?
Generally, the VA adds dependents from the date of the claim — not the date the dependency began. However, if you file within one year of a major life event (marriage, birth, adoption), the VA may back-date the effective date to the event date. File as soon as possible after each qualifying life event.
Do I need to be at 30% or higher to add dependents?
Yes. Dependent rate increases for spouses, children, and parents only apply to veterans rated 30% or higher. Veterans rated below 30% receive the same compensation regardless of dependent status — though adding dependents to your record now means they will automatically receive the additional rate when your rating increases.