What the 2026 VA COLA Increase Means for Veterans
The 2026 VA COLA increase of 2.8% raises monthly disability compensation paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs. This article shows how to calculate your new payment, gives an estimated pay chart, and explains how much you will gain each month and each year.
How the 2.8% Increase Is Applied
The increase is applied as a straight percentage raise to existing monthly VA disability rates. To calculate the new amount, multiply the current monthly payment by 1.028 (current amount + 2.8%).
Formula: New Monthly Pay = Current Monthly Pay × 1.028
Quick example
If your current benefit is $1,000 per month, the 2.8% COLA gives you $1,028 per month. That is a $28 monthly gain and $336 more per year.
Estimated Pay Chart After 2.8% COLA
Below is an estimated pay chart applying 2.8% to typical single-veteran monthly rates (no dependents). These figures are calculated from current published rates and rounded to the nearest cent. Always verify final official rates on the VA website after the VA posts 2026 amounts.
| Disability Rating | Current Monthly Pay (Estimated) | New Monthly Pay (+2.8%) | Monthly Gain | Annual Gain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $175.48 | $180.39 | $4.91 | $58.92 |
| 20% | $347.06 | $356.78 | $9.72 | $116.64 |
| 30% | $538.66 | $553.74 | $15.08 | $180.96 |
| 40% | $775.07 | $796.77 | $21.70 | $260.40 |
| 50% | $1,080.29 | $1,110.54 | $30.25 | $363.00 |
| 60% | $1,359.32 | $1,397.38 | $38.06 | $456.72 |
| 70% | $1,763.16 | $1,812.53 | $49.37 | $592.44 |
| 80% | $1,957.07 | $2,011.87 | $54.80 | $657.60 |
| 90% | $2,243.57 | $2,306.39 | $62.82 | $753.84 |
| 100% | $3,821.18 | $3,928.17 | $106.99 | $1,283.88 |
COLA increases apply to most VA monetary benefits, including disability compensation, pension, and survivor benefits. The exact new amounts are finalized when the VA posts the official rates for the year.
Steps to Check Your Exact 2026 Payment
- Find your current monthly VA rate on VA.gov or on your latest award letter.
- Multiply that monthly rate by 1.028 to get the 2.8% increased amount.
- Round to the nearest cent and compare the result to the official VA posting when released.
Calculator example
Use this quick mental check: for every $100 you get now, expect about $2.80 more per month after the COLA.
Real-World Case Study
Case: John, a veteran rated at 70% with no dependents, currently receives $1,763.16 per month. Applying the 2.8% COLA yields:
- New monthly pay = $1,763.16 × 1.028 = $1,812.53
- Monthly increase = $49.37
- Annual increase = $592.44
This extra $49.37 per month can offset rising living costs, medical copays, or household expenses.
Common Questions
Does COLA affect dependency allowances?
Yes. Dependency and additional allowances usually increase along with the base disability compensation. Check VA guidance for dependent-specific amounts.
When will I see the new pay in my account?
The VA posts official rates before the increase takes effect. Payments typically reflect the new rate in the month the COLA becomes effective. Check your VA award letter and bank deposit notices.
Final Notes and Next Steps
The numbers above are calculated by applying a 2.8% increase to current published monthly rates and are rounded for clarity. When the VA releases the official 2026 compensation tables, use those exact figures for precise budgeting.
Action items:
- Locate your current VA award letter or online account to confirm your exact current monthly amount.
- Multiply by 1.028 for a quick estimate of your new monthly and annual totals.
- Watch VA.gov or your eBenefits account for the finalized official rates.
Questions about your specific situation? Contact your local VA office or a veterans service organization for personalized help.
