In 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has implemented a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) to assist veterans in managing inflation. This adjustment results in an approximate $94 monthly increase for veterans receiving a 100% disability rating.
VA Payment Schedule for 2025
VA disability compensation is typically disbursed on the first business day of each month, covering the previous month’s benefits. If this date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, payments are issued on the last business day of the preceding month.
Here is the projected payment schedule for 2025:
| Benefit Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | Friday, January 31 |
| February | Friday, February 28 |
| March | Tuesday, April 1 |
| April | Thursday, May 1 |
| May | Friday, May 30 |
| June | Tuesday, July 1 |
| July | Friday, August 1 |
| August | Friday, August 29 |
| September | Wednesday, October 1 |
| October | Friday, October 31 |
| November | Monday, December 1 |
| December | Wednesday, December 31 |
2025 VA Disability Compensation Rates
The monthly compensation amounts vary based on the veteran’s disability rating. Below are the updated rates for single veterans without dependents:
| Disability Rating | 2025 Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| 10% | $175.51 |
| 20% | $346.95 |
| 30% | $537.42 |
| 40% | $774.16 |
| 50% | $1,102.04 |
| 60% | $1,395.93 |
| 70% | $1,759.19 |
| 80% | $2,044.89 |
| 90% | $2,297.96 |
| 100% | $3,831.30 |
*Note: Veterans with dependents may receive higher compensation rates.
Eligibility for VA Benefits
To qualify for VA disability compensation, veterans must have:
- A service-connected disability.
- An honorable or other qualifying discharge.
The VA assesses the severity of the disability and assigns a rating between 0% and 100%, which determines the compensation amount.
Key Points
- Automatic COLA Adjustment: The 2.5% COLA increase is automatically applied; no action is required from veterans.
- Direct Deposit: Enrolling in direct deposit ensures timely receipt of benefits.
- Payment Identification: VA payments are labeled as “VACP TREAS 310” in bank statements.
- Payment Delays: If a payment is missed, contact the Veterans Benefits Administration promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When will the 2025 COLA increase take effect?
A: The 2.5% COLA increase is effective from December 1, 2024, with the first adjusted payment disbursed on December 31, 2024.
Q2: Do I need to apply for the COLA increase?
A: No, the COLA adjustment is automatic for all eligible VA beneficiaries.
Q3: How can I ensure timely receipt of my VA payments?
A: Enroll in direct deposit through the VA to receive payments promptly.
Q4: What should I do if I don’t receive my payment on the expected date?
A: Contact the Veterans Benefits Administration immediately to report and resolve any payment issues.