Claim Situation

The 2027 cost-of-living increase and other money you may be missing

Oct 19, 2026 · Claim Situation

The situation

Compensation rises each year with the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment. The bigger money is often in benefits never claimed.

The COLA

See 2027 rates and confirm on VA's current compensation rates. Increases apply in December payments (paid in January).

Dependent add-ons

At 30% and up, adding dependents raises pay. Use 21-686c.

Benefits outside the check

Clothing allowance.
SMC-K.
State property tax and vehicle benefits.
Health care priority groups.

Unclaimed conditions

See secondary claims.

Rates 2027 · Calculator · Va payments direct deposit

Get free help

You never have to pay to file an initial VA claim. Free help: a VSO such as DAV, VFW or the American Legion, or a VA-accredited representative.

Educational only, not legal or medical advice. We are not VA-accredited. No one can promise an outcome; VA decides each claim on its own evidence. Rules and rates change; check the linked VA and eCFR sources.