Filing a VA disability claim can feel like navigating a minefield—but it doesn’t have to be. In this video, we walk you through the ENTIRE process, step-by-step, so you know exactly what to do, what to avoid, and how to maximize your chances of getting approved.

2025 VA Disability Payment Schedule

If you receive Department of Veterans Affairs disability payments, then for 2025, you received a 2.5% raise in your benefits.

EXAMPLE: 

2025 VA COLA Increase for a Single Veteran With No Dependents

The 2025 pay rates in this chart—including the changes in compensation over the years, for comparison—are for a single veteran with no dependents based on the 2.5% cost of living adjustment.

But what are the dates you’ll receive those monthly checks? Disability benefit payments for a particular month are paid on the first business day of the following month. When the first day of that month falls on a non-business day or a holiday, VA benefits will be paid on the last business day of the preceding month. Here is the VA disability payment schedule for 2025 to help you plan your finances.

2025 VA Disability Payment Schedule

The following are the payment dates for VA disability benefits in 2025:

• January 2025 – January 2
• February 2025 – February 3
• March 2025 – March 3
• April 2025 – April 1
• May 2025 – May 1
• June 2025 – June 2
• July 2025 – July 1
• August 2025 – August 1
• September 2025 – September 2
• October 2025 – October 1
• November 2025 – November 3
• December 2025 – December 1

What are the Monthly VA Payment Benefits?

VA Disability Pay or Disability Compensation is a tax-free monthly payment given to veterans with a service-related disability and an “other than dishonorable” discharge. Eligible veterans may qualify for a tax-free, monthly benefit ranging from $165 to over $3,600. Learn more about applying for VA disability pay and benefits.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monthly benefit for some surviving family members of veterans. It is paid to eligible survivors of a military member who died while on active duty, a veteran whose death was the result of a service-connected injury or disease, or a veteran whose death wasn’t related to their service but who was rated as permanently and totally disabled by VA. Learn more about DIC payments.

Veterans and Survivors Pension Compensation

The Veterans and Survivors Pension compensations are paid to eligible low-income veterans or their surviving family members. Learn more about the veterans pension and the survivors pension.

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is a tax-free monthly payment given in addition to VA disability pay to eligible veterans who suffered the loss of or loss of use of specific organs or extremities due to service. Read more about Special Monthly Compensation.

Aid and Attendance and Housebound Benefits

Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits are tax-free benefits paid in addition to monthly VA disability to cover the cost of in-house care, nursing home care, and assisted living. Read more about Aid and Attendance and Housebound Benefits.

Stay on Top of Your Veteran Benefits

Military benefits are always changing. Keep up with everything from pay to health care by subscribing to Military.com, and get access to up-to-date pay charts and more with the latest benefits delivered straight to your inbox.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, financial, or medical advice. Please consult with the appropriate professionals for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. VeteransBenefitsHub.com is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs and does not provide official VA services or guarantees. The payment schedule may vary depending on individual circumstances, and we encourage you to check the official VA website or contact the VA directly for confirmation.

Is There a $3,600 VA Stimulus Check in 2025? Here’s What Veterans Need to Know

With inflation and the rising cost of living continuing to impact millions of Americans, many veterans have been asking about the possibility of a $3,600 VA stimulus check in 2025. However, as of March 2025, there has been no official confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding any such stimulus payment.

Instead, the only confirmed financial boost for veterans in 2025 is the 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which has already been applied to monthly VA disability compensation and other federal benefits.

$3,600 VA Stimulus Checks in 2025: What’s the Reality?

Despite circulating rumors on social media and veteran forums, there is no standalone $3,600 VA stimulus check currently authorized by Congress, the VA, or the IRS.

The speculation appears to stem from confusion around the estimated annual increase in disability payments due to the COLA adjustment. For some veterans, the monthly increase from the 3.2% COLA could add up to around $3,600 across the entire year—but this is not a lump-sum stimulus payment.

Understanding the 2025 COLA Increase for Veterans

While a one-time stimulus isn’t on the table, eligible veterans are receiving more each month thanks to the 3.2% COLA increase. This adjustment, designed to help offset inflation, benefits those receiving:

• VA disability compensation
• VA pension
• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
• Other VA-related monthly payments

How Much More Will You Receive?

Depending on the level of your disability compensation, the COLA increase could result in an additional $250 to $300 per month. Over a 12-month period, this can total roughly $3,600—but again, it is paid incrementally, not as a lump sum.

Learn more about the 2025 COLA increase on Military.Com.

2025 VA Payment Schedule

VA payments typically follow a predictable monthly schedule, usually issued on the first business day of the following month. If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, payments may arrive early.

Veterans should monitor their direct deposit accounts accordingly and contact VA support if payments are delayed.

Who Qualifies for VA Benefits?

To receive VA compensation or COLA-related increases, veterans must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Honorable military service in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
• Permanent U.S. residency
• Service-connected disability (caused or aggravated by active duty)

If you meet these qualifications, you are automatically enrolled to receive COLA-based increases. No additional application is required.

The Bigger Picture: Financial Challenges Facing Veterans

While the COLA adjustment offers some relief, many veterans still face serious financial hurdles. These may include:

• Ongoing healthcare and disability-related expenses
• Limited employment opportunities due to service-connected conditions
• Rising costs of rent, utilities, and groceries

Financial educator Alex Beene notes that while COLA increases help preserve purchasing power, they rarely address the core affordability issues many disabled and retired veterans face.

How Veterans Can Stay Informed

To avoid misinformation and stay updated on real benefits, always rely on trusted, official sources:

• VA.gov – For all VA benefit updates
• IRS.gov – For tax-related relief and any future federal stimulus information
• SSA.gov – For Social Security-related COLA adjustments
• Benefits.gov – For an overview of available federal aid programs

Veterans can also contact the VA benefits hotline at 1-800-827-1000 or visit their local VA Regional Office for personalized assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is there a $3,600 VA stimulus check in 2025?
A: No. As of March 2025, there is no official confirmation of such a payment.

Q: Why do people mention $3,600?
A: That figure is the estimated annual increase in compensation some veterans receive from the 3.2% COLA adjustment.

Q: Do I need to apply for the COLA increase?
A: No. If you already receive VA compensation, the increase is automatic.

Final Thoughts

While there’s no special $3,600 VA stimulus check in 2025, the COLA increase offers steady monthly boosts that can add up significantly over the year. Veterans are encouraged to stay alert to future updates by checking VA.gov and IRS.gov regularly.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. While all information is accurate as of the publication date and sourced from official government websites, readers are encouraged to verify details directly with the Department of Veterans Affairs or Internal Revenue Service for the most current updates.

Hidden VA Tools You Can Use: View Claim Status, Static Ratings & More

If you’ve ever wanted a faster way to check your VA claim, see if your ratings are static, or confirm that the VA received your DBQs, this guide is for you.

This is the final “API-style” tutorial I’ll be doing — and I’ve packed everything into one place.  Just paste the right link and get your info straight from VA.gov.

⚠️ Important Note: These aren’t normal web pages. They’re direct API endpoints used by the VA system. To view them:
1. Log in to VA.gov.
2. Open a new tab or window.
3. Paste one of the links below into the address bar.
4. Hit Enter.
5. You’ll see raw data or system info related to your VA benefits — sometimes it looks like code, but it’s real data!

🔍 What Can You Do With These Links?

• ✅ Check if your disability ratings are static
• 📬 See if there’s been movement on your VA claim
• 📁 Confirm if the VA has received your DBQs
• 📝 View claim and appeal details
• 👤 Access your user account information
• 🔍 Discover behind-the-scenes data not shown in the regular dashboard

🔗 Copy & Paste These VA API Links (After Logging In)

You must be logged into VA.gov for them to work properly.

✅ 1. Check if Your Ratings Are Static

Check whether your ratings are marked as “static,” meaning they’re not subject to future reduction.
📎 https://www.va.gov/api/user_rating_info/v1/ratings

📃 2. See All Submitted Claims

Displays a full list of claims you’ve filed with the VA.
📎 https://www.va.gov/api/claim_documents/v1/claims

🕵️‍♂️ 3. View Detailed Claim Status

See estimated claim completion dates, evidence submitted (like DBQs), and current status.
📎 https://www.va.gov/api/evss_claims/v1/claims

📑 4. View Appeal Status (HLRs & Supplementals)

See the status of your Higher-Level Reviews and Supplemental Claims.
📎 https://www.va.gov/api/appeals_status/v1/appeals

⚠️ Note: BVA (Board of Veterans’ Appeals) decisions may not show here. If they do populate for you, let us know in the comments so we can update this info.

👤 5. See Your VA User Profile

Displays personal information tied to your VA.gov account like contact info and login details.
📎 https://www.va.gov/api/user/v1/user

💡 Bonus Tip: Save or Print What You See

After visiting any of the above links:

• Use your browser’s Print option (Ctrl+P or Cmd+P)
• Select “Save as PDF”
• Keep a copy for your records or to send to a VSO

🛠️ Troubleshooting

If you see an error like “Try the search box or one of the common questions below?” — here’s why:

• You weren’t logged into VA.gov before opening the link
• Or you pasted the link without using a new tab

To fix it:

1. Go to VA.gov and log in
2. Open a new browser window or tab
3. Paste one of the links above
4. Press Enter

Still not working? Try using a different browser like Chrome or Firefox.

🧠 Why These Links Matter

These API tools give veterans quicker, deeper access to their VA data — no waiting on letters or phone calls. It’s like pulling back the curtain on your VA profile.

If you’ve used the VA Claim Tracker, this gives you even more insight — especially if you know what you’re looking for.

⚠️ Disclaimer

VeteransBenefitsHub.com is a privately owned resource for veterans and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The links provided above direct to official VA.gov APIs. We do not store, collect, or manage any user data. For official help, visit https://www.va.gov.

Navigating the VA disability claims process can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re diving into the fine details of diagnostic codes. Today, we’re focusing on three specific conditions: hypertension, tinnitus, and caffeine addiction. These topics are complex and often require digging into the federal code, so we’ll give you a quick overview to get you started on the right path.

VA Diagnostic Code for Hypertension

The VA diagnostic code for hypertension is 7101.

To verify this, we searched various reliable sources, including legal blogs like CCK Law and educational resources like Cornell’s eCFR site. While these are useful for guidance, it’s always best to confirm the current rating criteria directly from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR).

According to the 38 CFR § 4.104, diagnostic code 7101 covers hypertension. Be aware that these codes can be updated, so always check the most recent version of the eCFR. As of the time of writing, the information is current through August 24.

Keep in mind, even if the condition has a diagnostic code, you still need:

• A medical diagnosis

• Supporting medical evidence

• A nexus showing the connection to your military service

VA Diagnostic Code for Tinnitus

For tinnitus, the diagnostic code is 6260.

This is a well-established code under the VA’s schedule for rating disabilities related to the ear. It typically receives a 10% rating for recurrent tinnitus, which is the highest schedular rating for this condition.

You can verify this on official government sites like va.gov, federalregister.gov, or through the eCFR. Just search for “6260 tinnitus” to locate the relevant section.

Important Note on Tinnitus Claims:

• Tinnitus is subjective. There is no definitive test to prove you do or do not have it.

• Your personal statement is critical. Clearly describe when the tinnitus started—ideally during active duty—and how it affects you today.

• Always include a personal statement with every claim. It’s your chance to explain your condition in plain language.

Caffeine Addiction and VA Claims

Caffeine addiction is a bit of a wild card. While it’s a topic of increasing medical interest, it’s not currently recognized with a specific diagnostic code by the VA. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible to get support, but it would likely need to be filed as a secondary condition (for example, if it exacerbates an anxiety disorder or sleep condition).

If you believe caffeine use is impacting your health in a service-connected way, speak with a VA-accredited representative or attorney to explore your options.

Final Thoughts

Each of these conditions is its own rabbit hole, and the more you dig, the more you’ll learn. The most important steps are:

1. Verify the diagnostic code.

2. Gather medical records.

3. Connect the condition to your service.

4. Submit a strong personal statement.

Taking time to understand the diagnostic codes and how the VA evaluates each condition can significantly strengthen your claim.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. VeteransBenefitsHub.com is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Always consult with a VA-accredited representative or attorney for help with your specific claim.

When it comes to disability benefits, many veterans are surprised by how differently the VA and the Social Security Administration (SSA) handle claims. While the Department of Veterans Affairs allows for more flexibility, especially when it comes to working while receiving benefits, Social Security has stricter guidelines. Understanding these key differences can make or break your claim.

Yes, You Can Work and Still Receive VA Disability

One of the most common misconceptions is that you can’t work while receiving VA disability. That’s not true. In fact, you can hold a job and still receive a 50% rating, or even a 100% VA disability rating, without issue. Many veterans do it every day.

On the other hand, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) operates differently. With Social Security, it’s more black and white — either you’re fully disabled and unable to work, or you’re not. There’s no in-between.

Social Impairments: A Major Difference

If your VA claim included social impairments (such as difficulty interacting with others, isolating behaviors, etc.), keep in mind that Social Security may not even consider these factors. That’s because social impairments are not recognized in the same way by SSA when determining disability.

So, if you’re applying for SSDI, it’s important to adjust your strategy. You can’t simply submit the same materials you used for your VA claim and expect the same outcome.

Know the Listings: SSA’s Blue Book

The Social Security Administration maintains a comprehensive Listing of Impairments—commonly referred to as the Blue Book. Many conditions listed there may also be compensable through the VA. However, before you submit an SSDI claim, make sure the disability you’re filing for is specifically recognized in the SSA’s Blue Book.

This is one of the most important steps in preparing your claim. The SSA is very structured in what they accept and how they evaluate it.

Time Requirements: VA vs. SSA

Another key difference is how long your condition has lasted—or is expected to last.

For SSA:

To qualify, you must meet at least one of these conditions:

• The condition is expected to result in death;

• The condition has lasted for at least 12 months;

• The condition is expected to last at least 12 months.

For VA:

There’s more flexibility. While a current diagnosis (usually within 6 to 12 months) is often required, you can file for secondary claims decades after discharge and still win. The VA is not bound by the same rigid time frames.

What About Medical Evidence?

Both VA and SSA want to see current medical records, diagnoses, and symptoms. But here’s the crucial difference:

• The VA looks at how much your service-connected condition affects your daily life, whether or not you can still work.

• SSA focuses exclusively on whether your condition prevents you from working at all.

SSA is looking for absolute incapacity to perform any work, not just a reduced ability.

Should You Use a Vocational Expert?

Yes, absolutely—especially if you’re filing for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) or SSDI. Vocational experts specialize in evaluating your ability to work based on your condition, job market factors, and federal labor standards.

In VA claims, vocational experts are rarely involved. But on the Social Security side, vocational experts can play a critical role, especially if your claim goes to a hearing. In many cases, the vocational expert is sitting right next to the judge during your SSDI hearing, providing testimony about your ability—or inability—to work.

Pro tip: Get a vocational expert involved early in your SSDI claim to strengthen your case and avoid unnecessary denials.

Final Thoughts

Some veterans are able to use the same medical evidence from their VA claims to win SSDI cases. But in many instances, you’ll need a more tailored approach. Understanding these distinctions—and preparing accordingly—can give you the edge you need when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance.

⚠️ Disclaimer

VeteransBenefitsHub.com is an informational resource created to assist veterans and their families. We are not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Social Security Administration (SSA). This article is not intended as legal or medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional or accredited representative for assistance with your specific claim.

If you’ve filed a disability claim—whether through Workers’ Comp, Social Security Disability, or the VA—it’s worth understanding this sobering truth: you may be under surveillance.

Sounds like something from a crime show, right? Unfortunately, it’s not fiction. Private investigators (PIs) are often hired by insurance companies or claims departments to verify whether a claimant’s reported restrictions align with their observed activities.

Why They Watch

Let’s face it—insurance companies don’t make money by paying claims. They profit by collecting premiums and minimizing payouts. So if your claim includes restrictions, say, a 10-pound lifting limit, there’s a real possibility that a PI might be monitoring your daily movements to catch any activity they can spin as inconsistent with your limitations.

Tactics Used by Private Investigators

Private investigators are methodical. They’ll often watch you for days—sometimes 10 hours a day or longer. Their job is to gather video evidence and create detailed surveillance reports that can be used against you.

Some of the common tactics include:

• Video Surveillance: They’ll film you doing seemingly normal tasks—like carrying a grocery bag or walking your dog.

• Screen Grabs: They’ll select the most incriminating freeze-frames from videos, sometimes exaggerating what you’re carrying.

• Downplaying Context: They ignore factors like pain medication, recovery time, or the fact that what you’re carrying weighs far less than your limit.

• Selective Timing: The report will only highlight the brief moments you’re active, disregarding the rest of your day when you’re resting or immobile.

One investigator followed a subject over three days. The subject was filmed carrying bags, walking dogs, and picking up a takeout order. In total? Just 11 minutes of video captured out of 72 hours of surveillance. Yet, that footage could be used to argue the claimant’s disability is exaggerated.

What a Real Surveillance Report Looks Like

Based on an actual redacted report (used with permission), here’s what a typical surveillance summary might contain:

• Dates and Times: Investigators log exact hours, sometimes from 7 AM to 5 PM.

• Physical Descriptions: They document what you look like, your car, license plate, and daily routines.

• Observed Activity: Any movement, lifting, or interaction is recorded and described.

• Video and Photos: Captured moments are included as evidence, regardless of context.

Even minimal or routine activity can be framed in a way that casts doubt on your claim.

Other Techniques Being Used

Some investigators go further:

• Online Surveillance: They may scan your Facebook, check for professional licenses, hunting permits, concealed carry registrations, or even FAA licenses.

• Data Mining: Investigators can also comb through public records and databases looking for inconsistencies with your claim.

Should Veterans Be Concerned?

While this particular report involved a Workers’ Compensation claim, similar surveillance has been used in VA disability cases. The extent of such surveillance varies by state and situation, but the possibility should not be overlooked.

Even if you’re not doing anything wrong, video footage can be misrepresented or misunderstood—especially if you’re seen carrying something “large,” even if it’s light or empty.

How to Protect Yourself

• Stick to your restrictions at all times, even when you think no one is watching.

• Document your own condition regularly. If you need pain relief or rest after an activity, write it down.

• Be cautious on social media. Posts can be taken out of context and used against you.

• Talk to your legal or VA representative if you think surveillance may be influencing your case.

Final Thoughts

Surveillance may not be as widespread in VA disability cases as it is in the private sector, but it’s still a tool that can be used to discredit you. The best defense is to remain consistent with your medical restrictions and always assume that someone could be watching.

Disclaimer:

The following article is based on personal opinions and experiences. It is not intended to serve as legal or professional advice. Your specific situation may vary. Always consult with a qualified attorney or representative regarding your VA or disability claim.

Have you or someone you know been followed or recorded during a disability claim? Let us know in the comments or reach out confidentially.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that occurs when peripheral nerves are damaged, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, burning, stabbing sensations, and muscle weakness. While it most commonly affects the hands and feet, it can manifest in various ways depending on the severity and specific nerves involved.

As someone who experiences this condition in my right hand, I know firsthand how challenging it can be—not just in daily life, but also in navigating the VA disability rating process.

Does the VA Have a Rating Code for Peripheral Neuropathy?

One of the more confusing aspects of filing a claim for peripheral neuropathy is that the VA doesn’t have a specific diagnostic code for this condition. But don’t let that discourage you. The VA often rates conditions analogously—meaning, they assign a rating based on a similar condition that is listed in the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD).

How Is Peripheral Neuropathy Rated?

For most veterans, lower extremity peripheral neuropathy is rated analogous to paralysis of the sciatic nerve, which falls under Diagnostic Code 8520. Here’s a breakdown of the ratings under this code:

• 80% – Complete paralysis: The foot dangles and drops, no active movement possible of muscles below the knee, flexion of the knee is weakened or lost.

• 60% – Incomplete paralysis (severe) with marked muscular atrophy.

• 40% – Incomplete paralysis (moderately severe).

• 20% – Incomplete paralysis (moderate).

• 10% – Incomplete paralysis (mild).

These levels are based on the severity of symptoms. It’s important to understand that VA ratings typically follow this pattern: severe, moderately severe, moderate, and mild. Where your symptoms fall on this spectrum will significantly impact your final disability rating.

For instance, if your symptoms are classified as moderate or moderately severe, you could receive a 20%–40% rating, rather than just 10%. That difference can have a major impact on your monthly compensation.

The Role of the C&P Exam and DBQ

Most VA disability ratings are based on the findings from a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. This is a critical step in the process. Before your exam, it’s highly recommended that you download and review the appropriate Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) for peripheral nerve conditions.

Knowing what the examiner will be looking for helps you prepare your case more effectively. In a sense, it’s like knowing the answers to a test—you’re not trying to cheat the system, but you are ensuring that you can clearly and accurately present your symptoms.

Even if your specific symptoms don’t line up with a neatly defined VA code, like in the case of chronic fatigue syndrome or peripheral neuropathy, the VA can and does rate them based on comparable conditions. That’s why it’s so important to understand how analogous ratings work and what evidence you need to support your claim.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Veterans are encouraged to consult with a VA-accredited representative, attorney, or medical professional when pursuing disability claims. Each case is unique, and ratings may vary based on individual circumstances and the VA’s evaluation.