VA Back Pay Estimator
Estimate your retroactive VA disability back pay — the lump sum owed from your effective date to your award date. Enter your rating, dependents, and the number of months to see an estimated total at 2026 rates.
Frequently asked questions
How is VA disability back pay calculated?
Back pay is your monthly compensation rate multiplied by the number of months from your effective date (generally the first of the month after it) to when the award is paid. Each past month is paid at the rate then in effect.
When does VA back pay start?
Usually from the first day of the month after your effective date — often your claim date, or earlier if the evidence supports an earlier date (e.g. within a year of separation for a BDD claim).