2026 VA Disability Rates: 2.8% COLA Explained
2026 VA disability rates reflect a 2.8% COLA increase effective Dec 1, 2025. Full rate breakdown, payment dates, and what veterans need to know.
Updated December 12, 2025
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2026 VA Disability Rates Are Live
On October 24, 2025, the Social Security Administration announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026. This increase applies directly to VA disability compensation, TDIU benefits, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), and Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
- Effective date: December 1, 2025
- First payment at new rate: January 1, 2026
- Action required: None—the increase is automatic
This guide breaks down the new 2026 rates, compares them to 2025, and answers common questions about the payment timeline.
2025 vs. 2026 VA Disability Rates
The table below shows the monthly compensation for single veterans with no dependents at each rating level:
| Rating | 2025 Rate | 2026 Rate | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $175.51 | $180.42 | +$4.91 |
| 20% | $346.95 | $356.66 | +$9.71 |
| 30% | $537.42 | $552.47 | +$15.05 |
| 40% | $774.16 | $795.84 | +$21.68 |
| 50% | $1,102.04 | $1,132.90 | +$30.86 |
| 60% | $1,395.93 | $1,435.02 | +$39.09 |
| 70% | $1,759.19 | $1,808.45 | +$49.26 |
| 80% | $2,044.89 | $2,102.15 | +$57.26 |
| 90% | $2,297.96 | $2,362.30 | +$64.34 |
| 100% | $3,831.30 | $3,938.58 | +$107.28 |
Use the VA Disability Calculator to model your combined rating and see exact monthly pay with dependents.
Who Qualifies for the 2026 COLA Increase
All veterans currently receiving VA disability compensation automatically qualify for the 2.8% increase. This includes:
- Veterans rated 10% to 100% disabled
- Veterans receiving Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU), paid at the 100% rate
- Recipients of Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
- Survivors receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
- Veterans receiving VA Pension benefits
No action required. The COLA increase is automatic—you do not need to apply, call the VA, or submit any forms.
2026 Payment Timeline
Here's when you'll see the new rates reflected in your payments:
- New rates effective: December 1, 2025
- First payment at new rate: January 1, 2026 (this payment covers December 2025 benefits)
- Deposit timing: Payments typically hit bank accounts on the first business day of each month
If January 1 falls on a holiday or weekend, your deposit may arrive on the next business day. Check the 2026 VA Disability Pay Schedule for the complete deposit calendar.
Dependent Add-On Rates
Veterans rated 30% or higher receive additional compensation for eligible dependents. The 2.8% COLA increase also applies to these dependent add-ons.
Dependent add-on rates for 2026 will be published by the VA. In the meantime, you can estimate your total compensation using the VA Disability Calculator, which will be updated as official dependent rates are released.
Eligible dependents include:
- Spouse
- Children under 18
- Children 18-23 in school
- Dependent parents
- Spouse requiring Aid and Attendance
Related Resources
- 2026 VA Disability Pay Schedule — Complete deposit calendar and bank early-pay programs
- VA Disability Calculator — Model your combined rating and monthly pay
- File a New Claim — Start a disability claim to lock in your effective date
- Request a Rating Increase — Document worsening symptoms for higher compensation
FAQ
When do 2026 VA disability rates take effect?
The new 2026 VA disability compensation rates take effect December 1, 2025. Your first payment at the new rate will arrive January 1, 2026, covering December 2025 benefits.
How much is the 2026 VA COLA increase?
The 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is 2.8%. This percentage increase applies to all VA disability compensation rates, TDIU, SMC, and DIC benefits.
Do I need to do anything to get the 2026 COLA increase?
No. The COLA increase is automatic. You do not need to apply, call the VA, or submit any paperwork. Your January 2026 payment will automatically reflect the new rates.
When will I receive my first 2026 payment?
Your first payment at the 2026 rates will be deposited on January 1, 2026 (or the next business day if January 1 falls on a weekend or holiday). This payment covers your December 2025 benefits at the new rate.
Social Security vs. VA Payment Timing
Veterans receiving both VA disability and Social Security benefits will see increases in both programs, but at different times:
Both programs use the same 2.8% COLA percentage for 2026.