Every year, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) adjusts disability compensation to help Veterans keep pace with rising costs of living. For 2026, the VA disability pay rates have increased by 2.8%, and this adjustment has taken effect for monthly payments starting in December 2025 and continues into 2026. This change reflects the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) tied to inflation data compiled by the Social Security Administration.
Because of this increase, we have updated our VA disability calculator so that you can estimate your monthly compensation more accurately based on the newest VA disability pay rates. Our updated calculator now reflects the 2.8% COLA increase, helping you estimate changes to your benefits for 2026. Using the most current rates in your planning can make a meaningful difference in understanding your financial picture as a Veteran living with service-connected injuries.
The cost-of-living adjustment is applied each year to ensure that tax-free VA disability compensation keeps pace with inflation. Without COLA increases, monthly VA disability benefits can lose purchasing power over time as the cost of essentials such as food, housing, and healthcare rises. Every increase, including the 2.8% raise for 2026, helps maintain your purchasing power and supports stability.
The 2.8% increase affects all Veterans receiving disability compensation for service-connected injuries with a rating of 10% or higher. It also applies to related benefit types tied to VA disability payments. You do not need to apply or request this adjustment — the increase is automatic and built into the VA’s payment structure.
These figures are estimates, and your exact benefit amount depends on your disability rating and eligibility for dependent compensation. Our updated calculator uses these current rates so you can estimate your benefit based on your individual situation.
Estimating your monthly VA disability compensation is essential if you are managing living expenses, medical care, or planning for the future. Our calculator takes the latest 2026 VA disability pay rates and adjusts for the 2.8% COLA increase so you can estimate what your monthly benefit may be. You can enter your combined disability rating and dependent information to see an updated estimate.
The VA process is confusing at times, especially when staying updated on legislative or regulatory changes like the COLA increase. Many Veterans do not realize that their monthly disability compensation changes each year with COLA, or how those changes affect their financial planning. That is why we update our disability calculator — to reflect the most recent official pay rates and help you make informed choices.
Tracking these updates also helps if you are preparing to file a claim or considering filing for increased compensation because of worsening conditions. Having a clear estimate gives you a sense of where your finances stand while your service-connected injuries are being addressed.
You have earned your benefits through service and sacrifice. Understanding how adjustments like the 2.8% COLA increase affect your VA disability compensation allows you to plan with confidence. Our VA disability calculator is updated with the newest pay rates so you can get a clearer picture of your financial outlook for the new year.
If you have questions about using the calculator, understanding your rating, or how changes may impact your household, our VA-accredited attorneys can help make the process clearer and more accurate.
