VA disability pay will increase in 2026, adding up to $1,800 per year for some veterans.

No action is needed to receive the COLA increase if you already get VA disability compensation.

Update your dependent information and consider filing for a rating increase if your condition worsens.

Check your eBenefits or VA.gov account for updated payment details in December 2025.

VA Disability Pay Increase 2026: How to Claim Extra $1,800

What’s Changing in VA Disability Pay for 2026?

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will increase disability compensation rates starting in 2026. For some veterans, this could mean an extra $1,800 per year—about $150 more each month. These changes are tied to the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which is set by Congress and matches Social Security increases. The new rates apply to all veterans receiving VA disability compensation as of December 1, 2025, and will show up in January 2026 payments.

To see how your monthly payment may change, check the official rates at our VA disability ratings hub. The VA will also send letters or update your eBenefits account with new payment details.

Who Is Eligible for the Increased VA Disability Pay?

Any veteran with a service-connected disability rating from the VA is eligible for the COLA increase. This includes those with ratings from 10% to 100%, as well as those receiving Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). The increase also applies to dependents—if you receive extra compensation for a spouse, children, or parents, those amounts will rise proportionally.

If you’re currently waiting on a claim decision, your new payments will reflect the higher rate if your award date is after December 1, 2025. For more on eligibility and rating details, visit our VA claims hub and disability ratings hub.

How to Make Sure You Receive the Full Increase

You don’t need to file a new claim to get the COLA increase if you’re already receiving VA disability pay. The VA will automatically adjust your payments. However, if your disability has worsened, consider filing for an increased rating using VA Form 21-526EZ. This could boost your base rate and ensure you benefit fully from the new COLA.

To check your combined rating and estimate your new monthly payment, use our VA disability rating calculator. If you have dependents, make sure your information is up to date by submitting VA Form 21-686c for dependents or VA Form 21-674 for children over 18 in school.

Action Steps: What Veterans Should Do Now

Monitor your eBenefits or VA.gov account in December 2025 for updated payment letters.
Review your disability rating and consider filing for an increase if your condition has worsened.
Update your dependent status with the VA to ensure you receive the correct amount.
Check your direct deposit information to avoid payment delays.
For more on the claims process, visit our explainer guides.

Where to Find More Information and Help

The VA will publish the official 2026 disability rates on their website and in the Federal Register, typically by late fall. You can also find breakdowns and calculators on our disability ratings hub. If you need help with a claim or want to appeal a decision, contact a VA-accredited representative or Veterans Service Organization (VSO).

For personalized estimates, try our VA disability rating calculator. If you’re planning retirement, see our military retirement hub for how VA pay interacts with military retirement benefits.