10/14/2026
The 2027 VA disability compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is 3.6%, matching the official announcement made by the Social Security Administration.
Key Details for 2027 VA Benefits
• COLA Percentage: 3.6%
• Effective Date: December 1, 2026
• First Payment Date: Since VA disability is paid in arrears, the increased payment for December 2026 will be issued on December 31, 2026 (or January 1, 2027, depending on the exact payment calendar).
• Automatic Application: Veterans do not need to file or submit any paperwork; the 3.6% increase applies automatically to base disability compensation, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Special Monthly Compensation (SMC), and pension benefits.
Estimated Examples of the 3.6% Increase
• 10% Rating: Rises from $180 to approximately $187 per month.
• 20% Rating: Rises from $357 to approximately $370 per month.
• 60% Rating (no dependents): Rises from $1,435 to approximately $1,487 per month