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VA Backlog Drops Below 100,000 for First Time Since 2020

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Department of Veterans Affairs reports the disability compensation and pension backlog fell to under 100,000 for the first time since 2020.
Secretary Doug Collins attributed the improvement to efforts during U.S. President Donald Trump's second term, noting a 63% backlog reduction since January 2025.
The backlog peaked at 264,717 claims when Trump returned, and the VA cited productivity gains plus the opening of over 30 new health care facilities.

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Story summary

The Department of Veterans Affairs reports the disability compensation and pension backlog fell to under 100,000 for the first time since 2020.
Secretary Doug Collins attributed the improvement to efforts during U.S. President Donald Trump's second term, noting a 63% backlog reduction since January 2025.
The backlog peaked at 264,717 claims when Trump returned, and the VA cited productivity gains plus the opening of over 30 new health care facilities.