VA disability benefits remain protected despite any budget freezes, with the PACT Act continuing to expand presumptive conditions for burn pit, Agent Orange, and radiation exposures, enabling easier qualification without proving service connection. Compensation increased 3.2% effective December 2025, and proposed 2026 rating updates for mental health, sleep apnea, and tinnitus won't affect existing benefits.
Source: news va. Original: https://news.va.gov/146174/i-never-let-breast-cancer-disable-me/