Veteran Assistance Programs: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

Veteran Assistance Programs: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

Posted by Liberty Tactical Munitions - Supporting Those Who Served on Jan 26th 2026

As a veteran-owned business, Liberty Tactical Munitions is deeply committed to supporting our nation's veterans. This comprehensive guide covers the essential assistance programs, benefits, and resources available to veterans and their families in 2025. 

The PACT Act: Largest Expansion of VA Benefits in 30 Years

The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022 (PACT Act) represents the largest expansion of VA health care and benefits in over three decades. This landmark legislation expands coverage for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances, providing generations of veterans and their survivors with the care and benefits they have earned. 

Veterans and survivors can apply or learn more about the PACT Act by visiting VA.gov/PACT or by calling 1-800-MYVA411. There is no charge to file a claim with VA. 

2025 VA Disability Compensation Rates

VA disability compensation rates for 2025 reflect a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment across all rating levels. Veterans with a 100% disability rating now receive $3,737.85 monthly, up from $3,652.83 in 2024. Those rated at 70% see their monthly compensation rise to $1,663.06, while those with 50% ratings receive $1,075.16 monthly. 

Additional allowances have also increased proportionally. Veterans with dependents receive higher monthly payments, with spouse allowances rising to $178.36 monthly for 30% and above ratings. Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) rates have received significant boosts, with veterans requiring aid and attendance now receiving an additional $2,295.41 monthly on top of their base disability payment. 

Key VA Benefits Categories

The 2025 VA Federal Benefits Guide covers comprehensive programs including: Disability Compensation and Pension services, Education and Training benefits (GI Bill), Home Loan Guaranty programs, Life Insurance options, Veteran Readiness and Employment, Homelessness Assistance and Prevention, and Burial and Memorial Benefits. 

Healthcare Achievements and Access

In fiscal year 2024, VA delivered approximately 127 million health care appointments, surpassing the previous year's record of 120 million. More than 412,867 veterans enrolled in VA care over the past year, representing a 27% increase year over year and the highest enrollment since 2017. Since the PACT Act was passed, more than 710,000 veterans have enrolled in VA health care. 

VA has expanded access through night and weekend clinics, increased appointment slots, and decreased new appointment wait times for primary and mental health care by 11% and 7%, respectively. 

Mental Health and Crisis Resources

Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1 (available 24/7). Text support available at 838255. Bereavement counseling is provided through community-based Vet Centers, accessible by calling 1-877-927-8387. 

VA has allocated $16.4 billion for mental health services, including $583 million specifically for suicide prevention outreach. 

Education Benefits Updates

The Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act includes 15 provisions enhancing VA education benefits. Key improvements include: expanded Fry Scholarship eligibility, removal of expiration on entitlement for surviving spouses, full monthly housing stipend for veterans in their final semester, and a new VA High Technology Program offering enrollment in high-tech education programs with VA covering associated costs. 

Professional certification programs now count toward GI Bill eligibility, including CompTIA certifications, project management certificates, and healthcare specialty licenses. 

Housing and Homelessness Support

VA housed 47,925 veterans experiencing homelessness in FY 2024 and ensured that 96% of the veterans housed during this time did not return to homelessness. Over $800 million in grants has been awarded to help veterans experiencing homelessness. The FY2025 budget includes $3.2 billion for veteran homelessness prevention. 

VA guaranteed over 416,300 home loans, saved over 158,000 borrowers from foreclosure, and approved 2,439 Specially Adapted Housing grants. 

Important Contact Numbers

VA Hotline: 800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411) | Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, Press 1 | Education Benefits: 888-442-4551 | Debt Management Center: 800-827-0648 | Community Care Billing: 877-881-7618 | CHAMPVA: 800-733-8387 

Sources and Additional Resources