Story perspectives
Veterans to Receive 2.8% Benefit Increase in 2026
10/27/2025
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Story summary
- Beginning December 1, 2025, veterans and military retirees will receive a 2.8% increase linked to 2026 COLA.
- The increase applies to VA disability benefits, military pensions, and survivor compensation programs.
- For example, a retiree with $3,000 monthly would gain about $84.
- The first payment at the new rate occurs on the first business day of January 2026.
- Experts warn that rising costs in healthcare and housing may outpace this adjustment.
