Veterans rely on VA disability benefits to provide critical financial support for service-connected conditions. But many veterans wonder: what changes each year, and how does it affect my compensation? Staying informed about annual updates, deadlines, and policy changes can help Georgia veterans protect their benefits, avoid missed opportunities, and plan.
At Coskrey Law firm, Ryan guides Georgia veterans through VA disability claims, appeals, and annual updates to ensure they receive the full benefits they’ve earned.
Overview of How VA Disability Benefits Work:
VA disability compensation provides tax-free monthly payments to veterans with certain conditions. The amount of compensation depends on:
- Your disability rating (0%–100%)
- Whether you have a spouse or dependents
- Certain special circumstances, like severe disabilities
Even though your rating may remain the same each year, the VA will update benefits annually through cost-of-living adjustments, pay rate changes, and program updates. Understanding these changes is essential to avoid any surprises.
Annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
Each year, VA disability benefits are typically adjusted for inflation through a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Helps ensure that VA disability benefits maintain their purchasing power as living costs rise. COLA is determined based on Social Security cost-of-living increases and is typically announced in December, with the updated payments reflected in January. Even a modest COLA can boost monthly compensation and dependent benefits, helping veterans and their families keep pace with inflation. Veterans should check updated rates every year to understand how their compensation may change.
VA Disability Pay Rates
The VA updates its pay tables annually
- Compensation varies based on disability rating and family situation.
- Pay rates affect veterans with spouses, children, or dependent parents.
- Even if your rating hasn’t changed, your total monthly compensation can increase with new pay tables.
Reviewing updated pay rates ensures veterans understand exactly how much they are entitled to receive each year.
Changes in VA Policies and Regulations
The VA occasionally updates policies, regulations, and procedures that affect claims:
- Appeals Modernization Act (AMA) updates: changes to appeals lanes and evidence requirements.
- Claims processing adjustments: rules for submitting medical evidence or supporting documents.
- New regulations that affect certain conditions or claim types.
Staying aware of policy changes helps veterans avoid errors, denials, or delays
Life Changes That Affect Your Benefits
Your VA benefits may change if your personal or family circumstances change:
- Marriage, divorce, or separation
- New dependants (children, adopted children, or dependent parents)
- Loss of dependent status
- Changes in income for certain benefits
Promptly reporting life changes helps prevent overpayments, underpayments, or lost eligibility.
What Should Be Done Each Year
To stay on top of VA disability benefits in 2026, follow this annual checklist:
- Review your current VA rating.
- Check for pending deadlines or appeals.
- Confirm your contact and direct deposit information is current.
- Review updated COLA and pay rates.
- Assess whether new medical evidence could support a rating increase.
- Consult an experienced VA attorney if you have questions or uncertainties.
Regular review ensures you receive the benefits you are entitled to and avoid unnecessary delays.
How Coskrey Law Helps Veterans
Coskrey Law helps veterans navigate the VA disability system with confidence and clarity. We assist with filing new claims, appealing denied or low ratings, and reviewing annual updates, including COLA adjustments and pay rate changes. Ryan Coskrey is passionate about helping veterans understand their rights and will provide you with assistance in getting the benefits you deserve.