Veterans across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia who receive disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs are expected to see an increase in their monthly benefits beginning in January 2027.

The increase follows Wednesday’s announcement by the Social Security Administration that benefits will rise 3.6% in 2027, reflecting the annual cost-of-living adjustment, commonly known as COLA.

VA disability compensation increases are generally tied to the same percentage adjustment used for Social Security benefits. However, the 2027 increase in VA disability compensation still requires congressional approval before the new payment amounts become official.

The adjustment is intended to help veterans and their families keep pace with rising costs for groceries, housing, utilities and other everyday expenses.

How Much More Will Veterans Receive?

Based on the announced 3.6% adjustment, a veteran with a 100% disability rating and no dependents would see monthly compensation increase from $3,938.58 to approximately $4,080.37, an increase of about $141.79 per month.

For a veteran with a 50% disability rating and no dependents, monthly compensation would increase from $1,132.90 to approximately $1,173.68, an increase of $40.78.

Veterans with a 10% disability rating would see payments rise from $180.42 to approximately $186.92 per month.

Those figures are estimates based on current compensation rates and the announced cost-of-living adjustment. The VA has not yet published its official 2027 disability compensation tables.

When Will The Increase Take Effect?

If approved by Congress, the new rates would take effect December 1, 2026, with the higher monthly payments beginning in January 2027.

The increase would apply to eligible veterans receiving disability compensation, with the actual dollar amount depending on their disability rating and qualifying dependents.

Certain benefits for surviving spouses and dependents are also expected to receive cost-of-living adjustments.

The Social Security Administration says its 3.6% increase will affect approximately 76 million Americans receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits. The average Social Security retirement benefit is expected to increase by about $75 per month.

Veterans receiving both Social Security and VA disability compensation may see adjustments to both benefits, depending on their eligibility.

Veterans generally will not need to submit a new disability claim simply to receive the annual cost-of-living increase once it is authorized.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is expected to release official updated compensation rates after the necessary legislation is approved.

Sources:

  • Social Security Administration, October 14, 2026
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Disability Compensation Rates
  • VA Disability Hub, 2027 Estimated Compensation Tables