Nurses working for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are essential in providing high-quality healthcare to veterans across the nation. With increasing demand for skilled nursing professionals, understanding salary structures, overtime pay, benefits, and career growth opportunities is critical for both current and aspiring VA nurses.
This 2025 guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of VA nurse salaries, overtime compensation, allowances, and related benefits, helping readers make informed career decisions.
Overview of Veterans Affairs Nursing
VA nurses serve in a variety of roles across hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and specialized veteran centers. Their responsibilities include patient care, clinical assessments, emergency response, and administrative duties.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
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Direct Patient Care: Administer medications, monitor vital signs, and provide treatment
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Specialized Nursing: Work in areas such as ICU, oncology, mental health, and rehabilitation
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Emergency Response: Provide critical care during emergencies or disasters
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Patient Advocacy: Assist veterans in navigating healthcare and benefit systems
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Training and Mentorship: Support new nursing staff and interns
Required Qualifications
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Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) accepted for certain positions
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Licensure: Valid U.S. RN license
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Experience: Prior healthcare experience preferred; specialized areas may require certifications
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Skills: Communication, clinical judgment, patient care, and administrative competencies
VA Nurse Salary Structure
Veterans Affairs nurse salaries are primarily determined by federal General Schedule (GS) pay grades, location, experience, and nursing specialty. Overtime and shift differentials further increase total compensation.
1. Base Salary by GS Level
| GS Level | Annual Salary Range (2025) | Monthly Salary Range | Typical Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-7 | $51,000 – $66,000 | $4,250 – $5,500 | Entry-level nurses with minimal experience |
| GS-9 | $60,000 – $78,000 | $5,000 – $6,500 | Nurses with 2–4 years of experience |
| GS-11 | $72,000 – $94,000 | $6,000 – $7,833 | Experienced nurses, often specialized |
| GS-12 | $85,000 – $110,000 | $7,083 – $9,167 | Senior nurses, supervisory roles |
| GS-13 | $100,000 – $130,000 | $8,333 – $10,833 | Lead nurses, unit managers |
| GS-14 | $115,000 – $145,000 | $9,583 – $12,083 | Nurse executives and department heads |
Base salaries vary based on location, years of service, and specialty certifications.
2. Overtime and Shift Differentials
VA nurses often work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays, all eligible for additional pay.
| Pay Type | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overtime | 1.5× base hourly rate | Applied for hours beyond 40 per week |
| Night Shift Differential | 10–20% | Typically for shifts between 7 PM – 7 AM |
| Weekend Differential | 10–15% | For weekend shifts |
| Holiday Pay | 1.5× or 2× base rate | For work during federal holidays |
| Hazard Pay | $150–$500/month | For high-risk environments such as infectious disease units |
Example Calculation: A GS-11 nurse earning $72,000 annually working 10 hours of overtime weekly at 1.5× rate can earn an additional $15,000 annually, bringing total pay to ~$87,000.
3. Total Compensation Example
| GS Level | Base Salary | Overtime & Differentials | Total Monthly Compensation | Total Annual Compensation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-9 | $65,000 | $8,000 | $6,083 | $73,000 |
| GS-11 | $78,000 | $15,000 | $7,750 | $93,000 |
| GS-12 | $95,000 | $18,000 | $9,417 | $113,000 |
| GS-13 | $120,000 | $20,000 | $11,667 | $140,000 |
Benefits for VA Nurses
VA nurses are federal employees, receiving comprehensive healthcare, retirement, and leave benefits.
1. Health and Insurance
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Medical Coverage: Multiple federal plans with employer contribution
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Dental and Vision Insurance: Optional, with partial federal coverage
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Life and Disability Insurance: Federal Employee Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)
2. Retirement Plans
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Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS): Pension, Social Security, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
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TSP Contributions: Similar to 401(k) with federal matching
3. Paid Leave
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Annual Leave: 13–26 days depending on service years
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Sick Leave: 13 days/year, accumulative
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Federal Holidays: 10–11 per year
4. Professional Development
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Training: Clinical skill advancement, leadership courses, and continuing education support
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Certifications: Specialty certifications (ICU, Oncology, Emergency, etc.) reimbursed
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Career Growth: Promotion within GS pay scales, supervisory and executive positions
Career Progression
Entry-Level Nurses (GS-7 – GS-9)
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Provide direct patient care
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Learn hospital policies and procedures
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Participate in clinical rotations and staff mentorship
Mid-Level Nurses (GS-11 – GS-12)
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Lead patient care teams
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Conduct staff training and mentorship
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Engage in specialty care or administration
Senior Nurses and Management (GS-13 – GS-14)
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Oversee nursing units or departments
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Manage budgets, staff scheduling, and policy compliance
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Serve as clinical leaders or executive nurses
Salary Comparison with Other Nursing Roles
| Position | Annual Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VA Nurse | $51,000 – $145,000 | Federal benefits and overtime included |
| Registered Nurse (Private Sector) | $60,000 – $120,000 | Varies by location, hospital type, and specialty |
| Army Nurse Corps | $55,000 – $130,000 | Includes deployment pay and hazard bonuses |
| Federal Bureau of Prisons Nurse | $50,000 – $115,000 | Includes hazard pay in correctional facilities |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is the starting salary for a VA nurse?
GS-7 nurses start around $51,000–$66,000 annually. -
Is overtime pay available?
Yes, overtime is 1.5× base hourly rate for hours beyond 40/week. -
Do VA nurses get night shift differential?
Yes, typically 10–20% extra for evening or night shifts. -
Are there hazard pay opportunities?
Yes, $150–$500/month for high-risk assignments. -
How does vacation leave work?
Nurses receive 13–26 days annually, increasing with tenure. -
Do VA nurses receive health benefits?
Yes, comprehensive federal healthcare including dental, vision, and life insurance. -
Are there retirement benefits?
Yes, through FERS and the Thrift Savings Plan with federal matching. -
Can nurses advance to management positions?
Yes, GS-13 and above positions include unit managers and nurse executives. -
Is federal student loan repayment available?
Yes, for qualifying nurses under federal programs. -
How does VA nurse pay compare to private sector?
Comparable or higher with benefits, overtime, and federal allowances.
Conclusion
The 2025 Veterans Affairs nurse salary with overtime reflects the high responsibility and critical role of nursing professionals in veteran healthcare. By combining base salary, overtime, shift differentials, hazard pay, and comprehensive federal benefits, VA nurses enjoy competitive compensation.
For nurses seeking a stable, rewarding, and nationally impactful career, the VA offers financial growth, professional development, and the opportunity to serve those who served the nation.