Every year, the VA adjusts disability payments to keep up with inflation. This automatic raise is called the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). For 2026, veterans will see a 2.5% increase starting December 31, 2025 (paid in January 2026 checks).
A Quick History of VA COLA Adjustments
VA COLA started in 1976 and matches Social Security increases. Recent years:
- 2025: 2.63%
- 2024: 3.2%
- 2023: 8.7% (record high!)
- 2026: 2.5% (confirmed by SSA)
Why the 2026 Increase Matters Right Now
Groceries, rent, and medical costs keep climbing. That extra 2.5% can mean $50–$150+ more per month for many veterans — almost like a mini stimulus check arriving automatically.
2026 VA Disability Pay Chart (10–100% Ratings)
| Rating | With No Dependents | With Spouse (No Kids) | With Spouse + 1 Child | Each Additional Child Under 18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $171.23 | — | — | — |
| 30% | $537.42 | $600.42 | $648.42 | +$31.00 |
| 50% | $1,102.04 | $1,209.04 | $1,287.04 | +$58.00 |
| 70% | $1,759.19 | $1,908.19 | $2,021.19 | +$74.00 |
| 100% | $3,831.30 | $4,044.91 | $4,177.62 | +$108.57 |
(100% with SMC-L or higher can exceed $10,000/month)
When Will You Get Paid in 2026? (Payment Schedule)
VA pays on the first business day of the month for the previous month. Here are the exact 2026 dates:
| Month Paid For | Payment Date 2026 |
|---|---|
| December 2025 | Thursday, January 1 |
| January 2026 | Friday, January 30 |
| February | Monday, March 2 |
| March | Wednesday, April 1 |
| April | Friday, May 1 |
| … (continues) | First business day |
How to Check If You’re Getting the Maximum Amount
Log into VA.gov or eBenefits → look at your current rating letter. Many veterans are under-rated by 20–30%. A free claim review with a VSO or accredited attorney can unlock thousands extra per year.
Surprising Facts About VA Benefits in 2025–2026
- Over 1.2 million veterans got rating increases in 2025 alone.
- 100% permanent & total veterans now average over $3,800/month tax-free.
- New “stimulus-style” VA programs (like the 2025 caregiver expansion) added billions.
Expert Tips to Maximize Your VA Pay
- File for TDIU if you can’t work (pays at 100% rate).
- Add dependents within 1 year of approval for retroactive pay.
- Consider secondary conditions — sleep apnea + PTSD is worth 50–100% for many.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When does the 2026 COLA hit my bank?
A: January 1, 2026 (for December 2025).
Q: Is VA disability the same as a stimulus check?
A: No, but the COLA feels like one — automatic and tax-free!
Q: Can I still get back pay if I file now?
A: Yes! Effective dates can go back months or years.
Final Thoughts – Don’t Leave Money on the Table!
The 2026 2.5% COLA increase is locked in, and your new higher payments start in just weeks. Take 2 minutes today to check your rating on VA.gov — thousands of veterans discover they qualify for hundreds (or thousands) more every month. Share this with a veteran buddy who might need it, bookmark the 2026 pay chart, and never miss another update!