In 2026, veterans and their families that get U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits will enjoy a 2.8% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). This growth indicates the desire by the government to ensure that the disabled veterans, military retirees and survivors remain at par with inflation. The COLA in 2026 is an increase in comparison with the 2.5% increase in 2025 but not as large as the huge increases in 2022 and 2023. It is generalized to disability compensation, dependency and indemnity compensation, survivor benefits as well as other related VA payment.
COLA Increase Details
VA disability payments will increase by 2.8 percent effective December 1, 2025, based on the 2025 rates. As an example, when veterans get $1,500 a month in disability benefits, they should anticipate an extra $42 a month in 2026. The benefits of those rated at 100 percent disability and those who have dependents would go up by more than $100 per month. This is an annual adjustment that will be implemented based on the alteration in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and should serve to counter the effect of inflation on the purchasing power of veterans.
Eligibility for VA Benefits
In 2026, veterans would require service-related injuries or illnesses that would be documented and rated by the VA to receive VA disability benefits. The scales go between 0–100 percent on the severity, and the more the person becomes disabled, the higher the compensation. Benefits are also available to the dependents and veterans’ survivors. Notably, everyone who is already in line to receive qualified VA benefits will automatically receive the COLA increment without having to re-apply.
2026 VA Benefit Payment Dates
The VA benefits are usually paid on the first business day of a given month and there are changes in case the date falls on the weekend or on a federal holiday. The 2026 planned payment dates will be January 30, February 27, April 1, May 1, June 1, and then monthly to December 31, 2026. To prevent delays, military veterans are supposed to keep their bank or direct deposit details up to date.
Short Table: VA Disability Monthly Benefits and COLA Increase 2026 (Sample)
| Rating | 2025 Monthly Benefit | 2026 Monthly Benefit | Monthly Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30% | $537.42 | $552.47 | $15.05 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 | $1,474.00 | $38.98 |
| 100% | $3,831.30 | $3,939.68 | $108.38 |
FAQs
What is the VA COLA for 2026?
The VA disability pay and associated compensation will rise by 2.8 percent effective December 1, 2025.
Should veterans reapply to receive the 2026 COLA increase?
No, the COLA adjustment will be automatically given to all eligible veterans who are receiving benefits at present.
Will VA disability payments be made in 2026?
The payments will be done on the first business day of every month, and the dates can be scheduled till the end of the year.
The VA COLA increase of 2026 helps the veterans to cope with the increased cost of living and also to commemorate their service. It is beneficial to know the eligibility and payment rates because this way, the veterans can keep their finances organized and spend the next year well.
