Veterans receiving disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) have good news in 2025—a 2.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) will increase their monthly payments! This means those with a 100% disability rating will see an extra $94 per month in their checks, bringing the total from $3,737.85 to $3,831.30 per month.
This increase is designed to help veterans keep up with inflation and rising expenses. But who qualifies, and when will you see the money? Let’s break it down.
Why Are VA Benefits Increasing?
Every year, the VA adjusts disability compensation rates based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). This ensures that veterans’ benefits keep up with the rising cost of everyday goods and services.
For 2025, the VA announced a 2.5% increase, effective December 1, 2024. Veterans received their first payment reflecting this raise on December 31, 2024.
Who Is Eligible for the Increase?
If you are already receiving VA disability compensation, you don’t need to do anything—the increase will automatically be added to your payments.
To qualify for VA disability compensation, veterans must meet these basic requirements:
- Military Service – Must have served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training.
- Service-Connected Disability – The VA must have assigned a disability rating based on a service-connected condition.
- Discharge Status – Must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
If you meet these qualifications and are already receiving payments, you’re all set!
How Much More Will You Get?
Your exact increase depends on your disability rating. Here’s what the new 2025 monthly payments will look like for veterans without dependents:
- 10% disability – $175.51 per month (up from $170.07)
- 20% disability – $346.95 per month (up from $341.84)
- 50% disability – $1,102.04 per month (up from $1,075.69)
- 70% disability – $1,759.19 per month (up from $1,716.17)
- 100% disability – $3,831.30 per month (up from $3,737.85)
If you have dependents (spouse, children, or parents), your monthly check will be even higher.
When Will You Receive Your 2025 VA Payments?
VA disability payments are sent out on the first business day of each month. However, if the first falls on a weekend or holiday, you’ll receive your money on the last business day of the previous month.
For example, the January 2025 payment was deposited on December 31, 2024. Veterans should check their bank accounts and official VA statements to confirm the exact deposit dates.
What Veterans Should Do Next
To make sure you receive the correct payment amount, log into your VA account or check your direct deposit records. If you notice any issues, contact the VA Benefits Hotline at 1-800-827-1000.
The 2025 COLA increase is automatic, so there’s no need to apply. But staying informed about future changes can help you maximize your benefits and financial planning.
This increase is part of the VA’s ongoing effort to support veterans and ensure their benefits keep up with the cost of living. If you or a veteran you know relies on VA disability compensation, this boost will help provide extra financial stability in the year ahead.
