Veterans Disability Rate Changes: New Amount, Eligibility Criteria & Payout Dates

Veterans who rely on disability benefits for essential expenses will see an increase in their compensation in 2025. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) oversees this program, ensuring that eligible veterans receive financial support based on their disability rating and service-related medical conditions.

With rising inflation, the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) plays a crucial role in determining annual benefit increases. As of December 1, 2024, VA disability compensation will increase by 2.5% to help veterans keep up with inflation.

2025 VA Disability Rate Changes

The VA assigns disability ratings based on the severity of a veteran’s condition. These ratings, expressed as percentages, determine the monthly compensation amount a veteran receives. If a veteran has multiple disabilities, the VA calculates a combined disability rating using a special formula rather than simply adding individual percentages.

New VA Disability Compensation Rates (2025)

The following table outlines the updated 2025 VA disability rates for veterans without children:

Disability Rating	Veteran Alone	With Spouse	With Spouse & Two Parents
100% Disability	$3,831	$4,044.91	$4,387.79
90% Disability	$2,297.96	$2,489.63	$2,787.13
70% Disability	$1,759.19	$1,908.19	$2,148.19
50% Disability	$1,102.04	$1,208.04	$1,378.04
100% Disability (Additional Benefits)	$537.42	$601.42	$703.42

Rates for Veterans With Children

Veterans with dependent children receive slightly higher payments:

• 100% Disability: $3,974.15 (Veteran with 1 child) / $4,544.23 (Veteran with spouse, child, and two parents)
• 90% Disability: $2,425.96 (Veteran with 1 child) / $2,938.96 (Veteran with spouse, child, and two parents)
• 70% Disability: $1,858.19 (Veteran with 1 child) / $2,258.19 (Veteran with spouse, child, and two parents)

Veterans with school-age children may qualify for an additional $342.85 per child at a 100% disability rate.

Eligibility for VA Disability Benefits

To qualify for VA disability compensation, veterans must meet specific eligibility requirements:

• Must be a U.S. permanent resident and have served in the military.
• Must have a service-related disability and provide medical evidence supporting the claim.
• Must obtain a VA disability rating, which determines the amount of compensation.
• Veterans with pre-existing conditions aggravated by military service may also qualify.

How to Apply for VA Disability Benefits in 2025

If you are a veteran seeking VA disability compensation, follow these steps:

Step 1: Apply Online or In-Person

• Visit the official VA website: va.gov
• Or visit a local VA regional office.

Step 2: Complete the VA Disability Claim Form

• Fill out Form 21-526EZ and mail it to the VA Claims Intake Center or submit it online.

Step 3: Provide Supporting Documents

• Include medical records, service treatment records, and disability ratings to support your claim.

Step 4: Track Your Application Status

• Regularly check your claim status through the VA website.

Step 5: Appeal If Necessary

• If your claim is denied, you can file an appeal or request an increase in your disability rating.
• You may also seek legal assistance if needed.

Is the 2025 VA Disability Rate Increase Enough?

While a 2.5% increase helps counter inflation, some veterans may still struggle with financial stability. Those with higher disability ratings receive more substantial compensation, but veterans with lower ratings may find it challenging to cover essential expenses.

If you believe your disability rating is too low, consider requesting a reevaluation from the VA with updated medical evidence.

FAQs: