🇺🇸 2026 VA Disability Rates (Projected 2.5% COLA Increase)

🇺🇸 2026 VA Disability Rates (Projected 2.5% COLA Increase)
The 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is projected at 2.5%, based on May 2025 inflation data. These updated rates will go into effect December 1, 2025, and will appear in VA compensation payments starting January 1, 2026.
Eligibility for the 2026 COLA Increase
This increase applies to veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or higher.
The updated rates ensure that veterans' compensation keeps pace with inflation, helping to maintain their purchasing power in the face of rising costs.
2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates (Without Children)
Note: Veterans rated 10% or 20% do not receive additional compensation for dependents.
2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates (Without Children) - Continued
2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates (With Children)
2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates (With Children) - Continued
Understanding the 2026 COLA Increase
Projected Increase
The 2.5% increase is a projection based on current inflation trends.
Final Confirmation
The final COLA will be confirmed in October 2025 after reviewing Q3 inflation data.
Potential Variation
If inflation rises or falls before then, the final increase could vary between 2.3% and 2.7%.
Timeline for 2026 VA Disability Rate Changes
1
May 2025
Initial inflation data used for 2.5% COLA projection
2
October 2025
Final COLA percentage confirmed after Q3 inflation review
3
December 1, 2025
New rates officially go into effect
4
January 1, 2026
Updated rates appear in veterans' compensation payments
Tax Benefits of VA Disability Compensation
VA Disability Pay Is Tax-Free
VA compensation is not taxed at the federal or state level.
This tax-free status provides significant financial advantages compared to other forms of income, allowing veterans to keep the full amount of their disability compensation.
Additional Compensation for Dependents
Qualifying Rating
Veterans rated 30% or higher may receive additional compensation for a spouse, children, or dependent parents.
Documentation
Proper documentation of dependents must be submitted to the VA to receive the additional compensation amounts.
Benefit Increase
The additional amounts vary based on the veteran's disability rating and the number of dependents.
Applying for a Higher Disability Rating
Need a Higher Rating?
You can file for an increase with updated medical evidence showing how your condition has worsened.
Gather recent medical records documenting your condition
Complete VA Form 21-526EZ for an increased rating
Submit supporting evidence of worsened symptoms
Attend any required C&P examinations
Understanding Combined Ratings
Combined Ratings Are Not Additive
VA uses a special formula to combine multiple ratings. A 70% and 40% rating doesn't equal 110%.
The VA uses the Combined Ratings Table to calculate your overall disability percentage when you have multiple service-connected conditions.
How Combined Ratings Work
Start with Highest Rating
The VA begins with your highest disability rating percentage.
Calculate Remaining Capacity
They determine your remaining efficiency (100% minus your highest rating).
Apply Next Rating
Your next highest rating is applied to your remaining efficiency.
Round to Nearest 10%
The final combined percentage is rounded to the nearest 10%.
Example: A 70% rating and a 40% rating would combine to 82%, which rounds to 80% - not 110%.
Aid & Attendance Benefits
Additional Support for Veterans Needing Assistance
Veterans whose spouse requires aid and attendance can receive additional monthly compensation as shown in the rate tables.
100% rating: +$200.82 per month
90% rating: +$180.71 per month
80% rating: +$160.75 per month
70% rating: +$140.78 per month
Staying Informed About VA Benefits
Mark Important Dates
Remember that the new rates will be effective December 1, 2025, with payments reflecting the increase starting January 1, 2026.
Monitor Announcements
Watch for the official COLA announcement in October 2025 to confirm the final percentage increase.
Check VA.gov
Visit the official VA website for the most up-to-date information on disability compensation rates and benefits.
Contact VA
Reach out to the VA directly if you have questions about how the 2026 rates will affect your specific situation.