Every year, VA disability payments get a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) so your benefits keep up with inflation. For 2026, veterans will see a 2.7% increase starting December 1, 2025 (you’ll see it in your January 2026 check).
A Quick History of VA COLA Adjustments
VA disability COLA started in 1976 and matches Social Security increases. Recent years:
2025 → 2.5%
2024 → 3.2%
2023 → 8.7% (record high!)
2026’s 2.7% is solid but more moderate.
Why This 2.7% Raise Matters in 2026
Groceries, rent, and gas aren’t getting cheaper. That extra 2.7% can mean $50–$200+ more per month depending on your rating and family size. For many veterans, this is real breathing room.
2026 VA Disability Pay Charts (With & Without Dependents)
Table 1 – 2026 Monthly Rates (No Dependents, 10%–100%)
| Rating | 2025 Pay | 2026 Pay (2.7% ↑) | Extra Per Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $171.23 | $175.85 | +$4.62 |
| 30% | $537.42 | $551.93 | +$14.51 |
| 50% | $1,102.04 | $1,131.80 | +$29.76 |
| 70% | $1,759.19 | $1,806.72 | +$47.53 |
| 100% | $3,831.30 | $3,934.30 | +$103.00 |
Table 2 – 2026 Monthly Rates for 100% Rating (With Dependents Example)
| Status | 2026 Monthly Pay |
|---|---|
| Veteran Alone | $3,934.30 |
| Veteran + Spouse | $4,151.45 |
| Veteran + Spouse + 1 Child | $4,295.45 |
| Each Additional Child Under 18 | +$103.54 |
How to Know Exactly What You’ll Get
Easiest way: Use the official VA payment calculator on VA.gov or just add 2.7% to your current check. The new rates are locked in – no surprises!
Fun Facts & Records
- Over 5.5 million veterans get disability pay.
- The biggest COLA ever? 14.3% in 1980.
- 100% disabled veterans with a spouse and two kids will get over $4,500/month in 2026.
Expert Tips to Maximize Your VA Pay
- File for increases if your conditions worsened.
- Add dependents ASAP – it can add hundreds monthly.
- Consider SMC (Special Monthly Compensation) if you have severe disabilities.
- Never miss the Dec 1 effective date – it’s automatic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When will I see the 2026 increase?
A: Your January 1, 2026 payment (mailed/end of Dec).
Q: Is the 2.7% official yet?
A: Yes – confirmed by the Social Security Administration in October 2025.
Q: Do state benefits increase too?
A: Some states (like Texas, California) tie their benefits to federal COLA – check your state!
Final Thoughts – Your Money Is Going Up!
The 2026 VA disability pay increase of 2.7% might not sound massive, but for most veterans it’s an extra $500–$1,200+ per year, tax-free. Check your new amount above, mark your calendar for that fatter January deposit, and share this page with your veteran buddies – they’ll thank you when their check hits!