Every month, the VA sends disability compensation to over 5.5 million veterans and survivors. For 2025, the maximum monthly payment for a 100% disabled veteran with no dependents is hitting $4,196.24 after the new COLA boost. Many call it the “veteran stimulus check” because it’s a huge lifeline.
Why the Big Jump in 2025?
The 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is 2.5% – the official number announced in October 2024. This raise matches Social Security and makes sure your benefits keep up with inflation. That’s why payments are bigger starting January 2025, and you’ll see the new amount in your November/December deposits.
2025 VA Disability Pay Chart (Key Rates)
| Disability Rating | Veteran Alone | With Spouse | With Spouse + 1 Child |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30% | $537.42 | $600.42 | $647.42 |
| 50% | $1,102.04 | $1,209.04 | $1,287.04 |
| 70% | $1,759.19 | $1,908.19 | $2,021.19 |
| 100% | $4,196.24 | $4,433.39 | $4,566.65 |
November 2025 VA Payment Schedule
VA pays on the 1st of the month. If it falls on a weekend/holiday, you get paid the last business day before.
- November 2025 payment (for October) → Friday, October 31, 2025
- December 2025 payment (for November) → Friday, November 28, 2025 (Thanksgiving week – early deposit!)
Who Qualifies for the $4,196 Monthly Check?
You need:
- 100% permanent & total (P&T) rating OR
- 100% schedular rating OR
- TDIU (total disability individual unemployability) rated at 100%
No dependents = exactly $4,196.24 starting 2025.
How Dependents Boost Your Payment
| Added Dependent | Extra Monthly Amount (100% rating) |
|---|---|
| Spouse | +$237.15 |
| Each child under 18 | +$133.26 |
| Dependent parent | +$150–$300 each |
Quick Tips to Make Sure You Get Paid on Time
- Update your direct deposit in VA.gov
- Sign up for text/email alerts
- Check eBenefits or VA.gov in late October
- File any new claims early – back pay is retroactive!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the $4,196 payment a one-time stimulus?
A: No, it’s your regular monthly VA disability compensation.
Q: When will I actually see the $4,196 in my bank?
A: Most veterans get it Friday, November 28, 2025 (early because of the holiday).
Q: Did the 2025 rates already go up?
A: Yes! The 2.5% COLA started with the December 1, 2024 payment (you saw it January 2025)
Final Thoughts – Don’t Miss Your Money!
The $4,196 VA disability payment isn’t “free money” – you earned it through your service and sacrifice. With the 2025 COLA increase, thousands of veterans are seeing their biggest checks ever this November. Double-check your rating, add dependents if you haven’t, and mark November 28 on your calendar. Share this with a veteran buddy – they’ll thank you when that extra cash hits! 🇺🇸