2026 VA DISABILITY PAY RATES: COLA INCREASE NOW IN EFFECT

The 2026 VA disability pay rates officially increased by 2.8% effective December 1, 2025, following the Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA) update announced by the Social Security Administration on October 24, 2025. This adjustment reflected the federal government’s annual review of economic conditions and inflation trends affecting everyday living expenses.

Cost-of-Living Allowance increases play a critical role in ensuring that Veterans’ disability compensation maintains its value over time. As prices for housing, food, healthcare, and other essential needs continue to rise, COLA adjustments help safeguard the purchasing power of monthly VA disability payments.

The Department of Veterans Affairs applied the updated compensation rates automatically beginning in December 2025. Veterans receiving VA disability benefits did not need to submit additional paperwork or take action to receive the increased amount, as the adjustment was reflected directly in their monthly payments.

At Patriot Path Solutions, we remain committed to keeping Veterans informed about important changes and updates related to VA disability benefits. Staying aware of compensation adjustments and policy updates is an essential part of understanding how federal benefit programs continue to support the Veteran community.

For more information on veteran disability education, visit Patriot Path Solutions.