Veterans who served our country and got injured or sick because of their service can get monthly payments from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These payments, called VA disability benefits, help veterans and their families pay for things like food, housing, and medical care. In 2025, these benefits got a 3.2% boost to keep up with rising costs, so veterans can get the support they need. This article explains who can get these benefits, how much money they might receive, and when the payments come in simple, easy-to-understand words.
Who Can Get VA Disability Benefits?
To get VA disability benefits, you need to be a veteran with a health issue caused or made worse by your military service. This could be something like hearing loss, PTSD, or a physical injury. The VA gives each veteran a disability rating from 0% to 100%, based on how serious the condition is. The higher the rating, the more money you get each month. For example, a veteran with a 100% disability rating gets a base payment of $3,357 in 2025. If you have a spouse or kids, you could get extra money, sometimes up to $839 more, depending on your situation.
How Much Money Can Veterans Expect?
The amount of money you get depends on your disability rating and if you have dependents, like a spouse or children. In 2025, the VA raised payments by 3.2% to help with inflation, so your benefits don’t lose value. For example, a veteran with a 70% disability rating gets $2,018 a month, plus an extra $74 because of the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). If you have a family, the VA adds more money to help cover their needs. Here’s a quick look at some 2025 monthly payment amounts for veterans without dependents:
| Disability Rating | Monthly Payment (2025) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $175.51 |
| 20% | $346.95 |
| 50% | $1,208.04 |
| 70% | $2,018 |
| 100% | $3,357 |
If you have a spouse, kids, or a parent who depends on you, you could get hundreds more each month. For instance, a 100% disabled veteran with a spouse and two kids might get over $4,000 monthly.
When Do Payments Arrive?
VA disability payments come on the first business day of the next month. For example, your July 2025 payment arrives on August 1, 2025. If the first day is a weekend or holiday, the VA sends the money on the last business day of the previous month. To avoid delays, make sure your bank account or mailing address is up to date with the VA. Some banks, like Navy Federal Credit Union, might even deposit your money a few days early. Here are some key payment dates for 2025:
- June benefits: Paid on July 1, 2025
- July benefits: Paid on August 1, 2025
- August benefits: Paid on September 1, 2025
How to Apply for Benefits
Applying for VA disability benefits is straightforward but needs some care. You’ll need to show proof of your service and medical records that connect your condition to your time in the military. You can apply online at VA.gov, by mail, or with help from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). A VSO can guide you to make sure your paperwork is correct, which helps avoid delays or rejections. The VA processed over 2 million claims in 2025, faster than ever, with wait times dropping to about 132 days on average.
Why These Benefits Matter
VA disability benefits are a lifeline for over 6 million veterans and their families. They’re tax-free and help cover everyday costs like groceries, rent, and doctor visits. The 3.2% increase in 2025 means a little extra help when prices for things like food and gas keep going up. If you think your disability rating is too low, you can appeal by sending a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) and extra medical proof. Staying informed and checking your eligibility can make a big difference in getting the support you deserve.
For more details, visit VA.gov or talk to a VSO. These benefits show our country’s commitment to supporting veterans who sacrificed for us, ensuring they can live with dignity and security.