VA disability compensation went up 2.8% for 2026 under the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The new rates took effect December 1, 2025, and the first higher payment landed at the end of December.
What the COLA is
Each year, VA disability pay rises by the same cost-of-living adjustment applied to Social Security. It's tied to inflation — specifically the Consumer Price Index — so your benefit keeps pace with rising prices. For 2026, that adjustment is 2.8%.
What 2.8% means in dollars
The percentage is the same for everyone, but the dollar increase grows with your rating. A few 2026 examples for a veteran with no dependents:
| Rating | 2025 | 2026 (+2.8%) | Monthly gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $175.51 | $180.42 | +$4.91 |
| 50% | $1,102.04 | $1,132.90 | +$30.86 |
| 70% | $1,759.19 | $1,808.45 | +$49.26 |
| 100% | $3,831.30 | $3,938.58 | +$107.28 |
At 100% that's roughly $1,287 more per year; with dependents the increase is larger still. (The full set is on the 2026 pay chart.)
Do you need to do anything?
No. The COLA is applied automatically to your existing rating — there's no form to file and no action required. Your December payment simply reflects the new amount.
It also raises related benefits
The same 2.8% lifts the added amounts for dependents, Special Monthly Compensation (SMC), and survivor benefits like DIC. And because back pay is calculated against each year's rate table, the COLA is one reason a multi-year back-pay award is computed year by year.