VA Policy Changes Impact Disability Benefits
Posted by Gregory M. Rada | August 12, 2025 | Firm News
Our Virginia veterans disability lawyer understands how important it is for veterans to stay up to date on VA policy changes that affect disability benefits. Our founder, Greg Rada, is a VA-accredited attorney and disabled veteran who has personally experienced the VA claims process while successfully fighting for the benefits he deserved. We know how important financial support is to your well-being and quality of life. You served your country, now let us serve you by securing the disability benefits you are owed.
The Department of Veterans Affairs has introduced several updates in 2025 that impact how benefits are awarded and processed. These changes bring new opportunities but also require veterans to be aware of how their claims might be affected.
2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
Effective December 1, 2024, the VA increased disability compensation rates by 2.5%, matching the Social Security Administration’s cost-of-living adjustment. This means veterans will receive a higher monthly benefit to help keep pace with inflation and rising expenses. For example, veterans with a 100% disability rating without dependents will see an increase in their monthly compensation. This adjustment helps maintain financial support for veterans and their families.
Expansion Of The PACT Act
The PACT Act, a critical law designed to assist veterans exposed to toxic substances, was expanded in 2025. Starting March 5, 2024, the VA began providing healthcare and benefits to millions of veterans sooner than originally planned. This expansion covers those affected by burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures, granting them access to the medical care and disability benefits they deserve. Our team is dedicated to helping veterans affected by these exposures receive the full scope of benefits available.
Adjustments To Disability Rating Criteria
In 2025, the VA updated its disability rating criteria to better reflect current medical knowledge and the realities veterans face. These changes aim to make disability ratings more accurate and fair, particularly for conditions like PTSD, respiratory illnesses, and musculoskeletal disorders. However, with updated criteria comes the need for veterans to provide additional medical documentation or undergo new evaluations to support their claims.
For example, the VA has refined the evaluation process for mental health conditions by placing greater emphasis on functional impairments rather than just symptoms. This shift could affect the percentage of disability assigned and the resulting compensation. We work closely with our clients to gather detailed medical evidence and expert opinions that strengthen claims under the new rating guidelines.
Additionally, the VA has adjusted criteria for certain physical disabilities to better capture the extent of impairment and how it impacts daily living and work. These changes are designed to improve fairness but may require veterans to revisit or appeal past decisions. Our VA disability benefits attorney guides veterans through submitting updated evidence and preparing for hearings or appeals when needed.
Impact Of Staffing Shortages On Service Quality
The VA has experienced significant reductions in medical staff, including nurses, doctors, and specialists, from 2017 through mid-2025. These shortages have slowed appointment availability and delayed claim processing times. For veterans seeking disability benefits, this means longer waits for evaluations and decisions. We strive to support our clients through these delays by keeping them informed and advocating aggressively on their behalf to reduce wait times whenever possible.
Staying Ahead Of VA Benefit Changes With Legal Support
As VA policies continue to shift, we know how vital it is for veterans in Virginia to stay informed about updates that could impact their benefits. At our firm, we are committed to providing personalized legal support tailored to each veteran’s situation. We help veterans gather the evidence needed to meet the updated rating criteria and fight for the highest disability rating possible.
If you’re a veteran facing questions about your disability benefits or need assistance with a VA claim, we encourage you to contact us. At Gregory M. Rada, Attorney at Law, we combine legal knowledge with a deep respect for those who have served. Our team is here to stand with you every step of the way. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can assist you with your VA disability benefits claim.
