This year, veterans in the United States have been able to enjoy (since December 2024) a 2.5% increase in their disability payments. The measure was announced by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and during 2025 it has benefited more than five million people (including veterans and their families).
What was this increase?
Every year, the VA adjusts payments according to the cost of living (COLA), which is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W). If inflation goes up, then payments go up too, and if it goes down, the same happens.
The goal is for veterans (and everyone who receives a Social Security payment) not to lose purchasing power over time if inflation continues. That’s why 2.5% may not seem like much, but it also depends on the degree of disability.
- 100% disability could exceed $3,700 per month
- 10% disability is around $175 per month
How disability payments are calculated
The VA Disability Compensation Program grants monthly tax-free payments to veterans with service-related illnesses or injuries. The amount depends on the degree of disability (which ranges from 10% to 100% in increments of 10 points).
- 30% disability, with spouse and child: approx. $648 per month
- 60% with spouse and child: approx. $1,617 per month
- 100% with family: more than $3,700
The greater the impact on work capacity, the higher the compensation as well.
Support for families
As you saw before, payments increase if there is a spouse, children, or dependent parents, and there are additional benefits for those who need constant assistance (through the Special Monthly Compensation or SMC).
Who can receive the benefit
To be eligible for compensation, the VA requires that the disability be directly related to military service, and three requirements must be met:
- Have a diagnosed disability.
- Demonstrate a link to your active service.
- Have received an honorable or general discharge.
How to apply for benefits
The process can be done online through the VA.gov portal. You just need to complete VA Form 21-526EZ and attach all medical or military documentation that supports your case. However, if paperwork isn’t your thing, there are Veterans Service Officers (VSO) who help for free with preparing and submitting applications or appeals.
Payment dates
VA payments are made on the first of each month. Like SSA payments, if that day falls on a weekend or holiday, they are moved to the previous business day.
Payments are made automatically, so there is nothing extra you need to do as a beneficiary. Still, make sure to verify your banking information just in case.
| Dependency Status | 30% Disability (USD) | 40% Disability (USD) | 50% Disability (USD) | 60% Disability (USD) |
| Veteran with 1 child (no spouse or parents) | $579.42 | $831.16 | $1,173.04 | $1,480.93 |
| With 1 child and spouse | $648.42 | $922.16 | $1,287.04 | $1,617.93 |
| With 1 child, spouse, and 1 parent | $699.42 | $990.16 | $1,372.04 | $1,719.93 |
| With 1 child, spouse, and 2 parents | $750.42 | $1,058.16 | $1,457.04 | $1,821.93 |
| With 1 child and 1 parent (no spouse) | $630.42 | $899.16 | $1,258.04 | $1,582.93 |
| With 1 child and 2 parents (no spouse) | $681.42 | $967.16 | $1,343.04 | $1,684.93 |