Veterans receiving disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will see an increase in their payments starting February 2026. The adjustment comes as part of the VA’s annual cost-of-living (COLA) adjustment, which aims to help recipients keep up with rising living costs. The 3.2% boost will impact veterans with disabilities, their families, and dependents. Here’s a breakdown of what veterans can expect when the increase takes effect.
The VA has long been committed to helping veterans adjust to the financial demands that come with disability-related conditions. With the continued rising costs of healthcare, housing, and other living expenses, the annual COLA adjustment helps keep disability compensation in line with inflation. The increase will benefit all recipients, including those with dependents and those who receive higher disability ratings. This comes at a critical time when many veterans are facing financial strain due to ongoing cost increases in various sectors of daily life.
Understanding the 2026 Cola Increase
In February 2026, all veterans receiving VA disability benefits will see a 3.2% increase in their monthly compensation. This rise is in line with the annual cost-of-living adjustments provided by the VA, which aim to maintain purchasing power in the face of inflation. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, the increase will apply to all disability compensation, pensions, and related benefits for the year. For example, veterans receiving the base disability rate of $1,890 in 2025 will see their monthly payments increase by about $60, bringing the total to around $1,950.
The 3.2% COLA increase also applies to veterans with higher disability ratings, which means those who are rated at 100% disability and have additional allowances for spouses, children, or dependent parents will see even larger dollar increases. These adjustments are automatic and will be applied to all eligible recipients, with no additional paperwork required.
Payments will be scheduled for deposit on the first of each month, or the preceding business day if the first falls on a weekend or holiday. Veterans are encouraged to review their statements and confirm the new payment amount, ensuring they’re receiving the adjusted benefits.
The Importance of the COLA Adjustment
The cost-of-living adjustment for VA disability benefits is a vital financial tool for veterans, particularly those with service-connected conditions that often require ongoing medical treatment or special accommodations. Healthcare costs, in particular, have been rising consistently, placing an added burden on veterans who may already face challenges due to their disabilities. The VA’s COLA adjustments help mitigate these challenges, ensuring that veterans’ compensation keeps pace with the growing costs of living.
According to the VA, this adjustment is also crucial for veterans who rely on their disability compensation as their primary income. With inflation affecting housing, healthcare, food, and everyday essentials, the COLA increase helps prevent veterans from falling behind financially. Additionally, veterans receiving special monthly compensation (SMC), which is designed for those with significant disabilities or additional needs, will see the same increase applied to those benefits. The increase is a timely reminder of the importance of supporting those who have served the country and are now navigating the difficulties that often come with service-connected disabilities.
