Veterans receiving VA disability benefits will see an increase in their monthly compensation next year.
The 5.9% increase will apply to more than 5 million veterans who receive VA disability benefits and more than 445,000 surviving spouses and children who receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).
It is the largest increase for the benefit programs in more than a decade. Veterans received less than a 2% increase in disability benefits in 2020 and 2021.
The larger than usual increase coincides with a Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which was significantly higher this year because of rising inflation.
Congress agreed to tie this year’s VA benefits increase to the annual Social Security COLA through the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act, which President Biden signed on Oct. 8.
Veterans who receive disability payments will receive between $8.50 and $185 more each month, depending on their disability rating. Veterans who receive total disability individual unemployability (TDIU) will see an increase of more than $185 next year. The monthly amounts for disability benefits and TDIU will increase depending on the number of dependents.
Veterans should start noticing the larger amount in their January 2022 payment. If you do not see a difference in the amount in 2022, you should contact the Veterans Benefits Administration.
| VA rating | 2022 Monthly Compensation (Veteran with no dependents) | 2021 Monthly Compensation (Veteran with no dependents) |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $152.64 | $144.14 |
| 20% | $301.74 | $284.93 |
| 30% | $467.39 | $441.35 |
| 40% | $673.28 | $635.77 |
| 50% | $958.44 | $905.04 |
| 60% | $1,214.03 | $1,146.39 |
| 70% | $1,529.95 | $1,444.71 |
| 80% | $1,778.43 | $1,679.35 |
| 90% | $1,998.52 | $1,887.18 |
| 100% (also TDIU) | $3,332.06 | $3,146.42 |
| DIC basic rate | $1,437.66 | $1,357.56 |
How to Get a Free VA Claim Evaluation
If you have questions about applying for VA disability benefits or about appealing a VA decision, call Woods & Woods. Your claim evaluation is free, and if you need to appeal, our VA disability lawyers only charge if you win.
Talk to Us About Your Claim: (812) 426-7200
This firm has been excellent at obtaining my disability claim. I now am 100% service connected. No complaints. Thanks to Woods and Woods. I will recommend them for anyone trying to obtain service-connected disability.
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Neil Woods
VA disability attorney
Woods & Woods
Neil Woods is the firm’s owner and president. He received his law degree from Western Michigan University.
