The discrepancy between your proposed 70% rating and the stated $990 payment is almost certainly because the VA is proposing to reduce only one specific condition, not your entire combined rating, and the $990 figure represents the amount of that specific benefit you would lose monthly, not your new total compensation. Under **38 CFR 3.105(e)**, the VA must provide a proposal to reduce before finalizing, and the compensation impact is detailed per condition. For example, if the condition targeted for reduction is currently rated at 50%, its removal from your 90% combined rating calculation could drop you to 70% overall, and the $990 likely reflects the dollar value of that 50% rating alone (which, with dependents, aligns with that amount). You have critical procedural rights: first, immediately request a hearing within 30 days of the proposal letter to preserve your current benefits during the process (**38 CFR 3.105(i)**). Then, gather evidence to contest the reduction by showing your condition has not materially improved under ordinary life conditions, per *DeLuca v. Brown*, which allows you to demonstrate worsened function even if clinical tests show improvement. Obtain a supportive medical opinion and/or buddy statements arguing against sustained improvement as required by **38 CFR 3.344**. Also, verify if the condition has been at its current rating for 5+ years (requiring a higher standard for reduction) or 20+ years (making it protected), per **38 CFR 3.951**. Your actionable next steps are to 1) formally request a hearing before the deadline, 2) submit a VA Form 21-4138 stating you contest the reduction, and 3) proactively gather and submit new evidence demonstrating continued severity, citing the relevant Diagnostic Code (e.g., for mental health, **DC 9411** under **38 CFR 4.130**) to support your argument.
*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes regarding VA procedures and is not intended as legal, medical, or official advice. You should consider consulting with an accredited VA claims agent or attorney for guidance specific to your case.*
Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.
Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.
| Rating | Monthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
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