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As we kick off 2026, there’s no better time than right now to take control of your VA disability benefits.
While you can file a VA claim at any time, filing earlier in the year can result in an earlier effective date and potentially greater retroactive pay under VA rules.
From understanding how effective dates work to filing after updated annual VA compensation rates take effect, we’ll discuss key timing considerations when filing for veterans benefits.
Summary of Key Points
- Start the year strong with complete evidence: All your 2025 medical records are now finalized and easy to gather, giving your claim the strongest possible support since the VA prioritizes recent documentation.
- Beat the rush for faster processing: Filing earlier can help your claim enter the VA’s system sooner and potentially result in a quicker decision, as the VA continues to improve its efficiency.
- Lock in maximum back pay today: By submitting an Intent to File right now, you secure an early effective date and could gain thousands in retroactive benefits at the new higher rates.
Table of Contents
VA Benefits for Veterans: Why File in Early 2026?
Filing your VA claim early in the year isn’t just about fulfilling a resolution — it’s a smart way to take steps toward gaining the benefits you deserve. Here’s why:
Access to Complete, Up-to-Date Evidence
All your 2025 medical records are now finalized and readily available.
The VA places significant weight on recent evidence when evaluating claims, so gathering everything from the prior year in one comprehensive package strengthens your case right from the start.
Preempt Proposed 2026 Ratings Changes
While proposed changes to mental health ratings may benefit veterans seeking VA disability, stricter guidelines for other conditions, such as sleep apnea and tinnitus, could make higher ratings more difficult to obtain.
Further Reading: 2026 VA Rating Changes Explained: Key Updates and Potential Timelines for Veterans!
Faster Processing
VA claims are currently being processed more efficiently, and lower backlogs can help your submission move through the system more quickly.
Current average processing times are around 84.8 days (as of December 2025), with the backlog significantly reduced in recent months.
Maximizing Back Pay with the COLA Increase
If you submit an Intent to File today, you can lock in an effective date as early as possible. This preserves your eligibility for up to a full year of retroactive benefits at the new 2026 rates. Veterans at higher ratings stand to gain thousands in back pay by acting promptly.
The 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) took effect on Dec. 1, 2025, meaning your monthly payments are already reflecting this increase for 2026. This boost applies across the board to VA disability compensation.
Year‑End Documentation
January often coincides with organizing tax-related records, which may also include documents useful for claims, such as income documentation for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
For Veterans Seeking a VA Rating Increase
If your service-connected conditions have worsened, now is an excellent time to request an increase.
The 2026 VA compensation rates are in effect. Your current evidence can support a VA rating increase, and your benefits will reflect the 2026 COLA once the claim is granted.
Focus on strong, recent medical documentation and nexus opinions to clearly show progression.
Actionable Steps to Get Started Today
- File online: It’s the fastest way to submit your forms, allowing you to track progress easily.
- Consider a Fully Developed Claim: Submit all evidence upfront for potentially expedited processing.
- Connect with a Veterans Service Organization: VSOs can provide assistance with your VA claim.
- Submit an Intent to File immediately: This simple step protects your effective date while you gather supporting documents.
Conclusion
Many veterans have successfully navigated the VA claims filing process by starting early in the year and securing the benefits they’ve earned without unnecessary delays. You’ve served with dedication, and now it’s time to ensure your VA benefits fully reflect that service.
The window is wide open in 2026. If you file now, you may be eligible for more back pay, and you’ll hopefully beat any new changes to the VA ratings system for 2026. You’ve got plenty to lose if you don’t — and plenty to gain if you do.
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FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a best time of year to file for VA benefits?
Yes. While you can file a VA claim at any time, filing early in the year—especially January—can help secure an earlier effective date, preserve back pay, and allow your claim to move through the system sooner.
Does filing in January affect my VA back pay?
It can. If you submit an Intent to File in January, you may protect an effective date up to one year earlier, which can result in thousands of dollars in retroactive VA disability compensation once your claim is approved.
Can I estimate my VA disability compensation before I file?
Yes. You can use the free VA disability calculator to estimate your monthly compensation based on your current or projected VA rating. This helps you understand what your benefits could look like before submitting a claim or rating increase.
Should I file a new claim or request a VA rating increase?
That depends. If you’re filing for a condition not yet service-connected, you’ll submit a new claim. If an existing service-connected condition has worsened, you may be eligible for a VA rating increase—especially now that 2026 compensation rates are in effect.
Content Reviewed By
Quality Assurance Team
The Quality Assurance (QA) team at VA Claims Insider has extensive experience researching, fact-checking, and ensuring accuracy in all produced content. The QA team consists of individuals with specialized knowledge in the VA disability claims adjudication processes, laws and regulations, and they understand the needs of our target audience. Any changes or suggestions the QA team makes are thoroughly reviewed and incorporated into the content by our writers and creators.
About the Author
Katie McCarthy
Katie McCarthy is a writer and editor with experience in daily news and digital and print magazine publishing. She honed her editorial (and firearms) skills at Guns & Ammo before helping launch Black Rifle Coffee Company’s Coffee or Die Magazine as the managing editor. She holds degrees in English (BA) and public administration (MPA). Katie is a military spouse and word nerd who enjoys reading, hiking, camping, gardening, and spending time with her family.
