Good news is coming for veterans in 2025. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has confirmed that disability payments will increase by over 60% starting January 2025. This major hike is part of a wider plan to help veterans cope with the rising cost of living.
Whether you already receive VA disability benefits or plan to apply soon, this guide explains who qualifies, how much you could get, when payments will arrive, and how to prepare for the changes.
What Is Behind the Big Increase in VA Disability Payments?
The Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) is updated every year to match inflation. But for 2025, the rise is especially large—over 60%—due to sharp increases in the cost of food, rent, and healthcare.
Example:
In 2024, a veteran with a 100% disability rating received about $3,621.95/month.
With the 2025 increase, that amount will rise to around $5,795.12/month. That’s over $2,100 extra each month.
This increase is one of the largest in VA history, and it will offer better financial support to disabled veterans and their families.
Who Is Eligible for VA Disability Benefits?
To qualify for these payments, you must meet certain conditions.
1. Service-Connected Disability
You must have a medical condition caused or made worse by your time in the military.
Examples:
- PTSD
- Hearing loss
- Back injuries
- Breathing problems due to burn pits
2. Verified Disability Rating
- The VA gives you a disability rating from 10% to 100%.
- This rating decides how much you are paid every month.
- The higher the rating, the more money you receive.
3. Type of Discharge
- You must be discharged under honourable or general conditions.
- Dishonourable discharges may affect your eligibility.
If you’re unsure about your rating or want to appeal a decision, visit the VA Disability Compensation Page.
2025 VA Disability Payment Schedule
VA sends disability payments every month. Here’s how it works:
| Benefit Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| December 2024 | December 31, 2024 |
| January 2025 | February 1, 2025 |
| February 2025 | February 28, 2025 |
Tip: If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, payment is sent on the last working day before that.
You can view the full year’s schedule on the official VA Payment Calendar.
How to Prepare for the 2025 Payment Increase
1. Check Your Disability Rating
If your health has changed, you might be eligible for a higher rating.
Steps to file for a re-evaluation:
- Collect updated medical documents
- Submit VA Form 21-526EZ
- File online or visit your nearest VA office
2. Update Bank Details
Make sure your bank account details are correct in your VA profile.
Wrong or old information can delay your money.
3. Budget Smartly
The increase gives you more monthly income. Plan to:
- Pay off debts
- Save for future expenses
- Cover medical or family costs
4. Check Other Veteran Benefits
You might also qualify for:
- Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) – for more serious disabilities
- VA Healthcare – free or low-cost treatment
- Housing Grants – to improve home accessibility (like ramps, wider doors)
Visit VA.gov to see full details.
5. Get Help from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO)
VSOs offer free help for:
- Filing claims
- Reviewing paperwork
- Answering questions
You can contact:
- American Legion
- Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
- Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
The 60% increase in VA disability payments from January 2025 will bring much-needed relief to U.S. veterans and their families. If you’re already receiving these benefits or planning to apply, now is the best time to get organised.
Make sure your documents are updated, check your disability rating, and explore other benefits that you may not be using yet. Even a small change in your paperwork could lead to thousands of extra dollars in support.