The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pays out monthly benefits to millions of veterans who are disabled as a result of their active military service. This monthly tax-free payment is a lifeline for many veterans who got sick or injured while serving.
With the government shutdown dragging on, it's natural to wonder if that lag will impact your monthly payment. This guide explores exactly when you can expect to receive VA payments in November, which can help you prepare yourself financially for the month ahead.
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When are VA benefits typically paid?
Typically, VA benefits are paid on the first business day following the month they cover. For example, January's disability payment would usually be paid out on Feb. 1.
But, of course, there are some exceptions. If the first business day of the following month is a weekend or holiday, you may receive your benefits on the last business day of the previous month. For example, if Sept. 1 is a Saturday, then you would receive your payment on Aug. 31.
Additionally, an extended government shutdown could derail regular benefit payment schedules. Back in 2013, a prolonged shutdown almost led to delayed VA benefit payments. Luckily, as of writing, the 2025 government shutdown hasn't impacted VA disability payments. That's because the VA receives the necessary funding appropriations in advance.
When will VA benefits be paid in November?
November 2025's VA disability compensation payments will go out on Monday, Dec. 1.
Later in December, eligible veterans will also receive their December 2025 payment on Wednesday, Dec. 31, because Jan. 1, 2026, is a holiday.
How many veterans receive disability compensation?
Approximately 6.9 million veterans and eligible survivors receive VA disability compensation. With that, that means around 40% of the approximately 16.2 million U.S. military veterans get disability pay.
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Who qualifies?
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, in order to receive VA disability payments, you must have a service-connected condition. This means the illness or injury was caused by, or got worse because of, your active military service. Additionally, the condition must affect your mind or body, and you must have served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training.
It must also be true that you either got sick or injured while serving in the military and can link this condition to your illness or injury, you had an illness or injury before you joined the military and serving made it worse, or you have a disability related to your active-duty service that didn't appear until after you ended your service.
Some examples of possibly eligible conditions include:
- Chronic (long-lasting) back pain resulting in a current diagnosed back disability
- Breathing problems resulting from a current lung condition or lung disease
- Severe hearing loss
- Scar tissue
- Loss of range of motion
- Ulcers
- Cancers or other conditions caused by contact with toxic chemicals or other dangers
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mental or physical health conditions related to military sexual trauma (MST)
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
How much can you get?
The exact amount of disability benefit pay you would receive varies based on your condition and the circumstances. Every eligible veteran receives a disability rating ranging from 10% to 100%, in increments of 10%. Those with a higher percentage of disability rating would receive a higher benefits amount.
For example, in 2025, veterans with a 20% disability rating would receive $346.95 per month without a spouse or dependent. Veterans with a 30% or higher disability rating might receive more compensation if they have a dependent child or spouse. For example, a veteran with a 30% disability rating who has a spouse and one small child would receive $648.42 per month.
Currently, the maximum amount of monthly compensation is $4,544.23.
Can you seek an increase in your rating?
The VA doesn't permanently set your disability rating. If you think your rating was set too low by the VA or your condition worsens, you can request a review of your condition.
During a re-evaluation, you'll need to submit updated medical records to support the fact that your disability has worsened. This process can take months, but if your rating is increased, your benefits may also increase.
What's the payment schedule for the rest of the year?
In the final month of 2025, you can expect to receive your December 2025 benefits on Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
What to do if you don't receive your payment
As with all large systems, mistakes can happen. If you don't receive your payment, visit your local VA office or call the VA at 1-800-698-2411. Explain the situation and be prepared to provide any details they need to get your payment on its way.
You can also contact the VA benefits hotline at 1-800-827-1000.
Bottom line
November 2025 VA disability payments are coming soon. You should see these payments arrive on Dec. 1, 2025. And though you'll also see a payment on Friday, Oct. 31, this is for October's official check.
As you navigate your finances with this ongoing monthly cash influx, consider making some smart money moves to build financial stability over time.
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