Too many veterans and families still leave money, health care, and travel perks on the table. This 2026 guide spotlights 12 overlooked VA benefits—each with quick eligibility checkpoints, plain-English explanations, and apply-now links. Skim the checkpoints, confirm with the source pages, then file. You’ve earned these.
What actually changed for 2026?
- COLA: VA compensation, DIC, clothing allowance and more reflect a 2.8% COLA as of January 1, 2026. Source: VA VBA newsletter, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- 2026 VA disability/SMC tables: Live on VA.gov; check your exact monthly rate and SMC levels. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
Bottom line: If your rating/dependents changed in late 2025–early 2026, re-check your rate tables now and update direct deposit if needed.
12 overlooked VA benefits (with eligibility checkpoints)
Each section includes Eligibility Checkpoints and Apply/learn links from official pages. Always verify final details on VA.gov before filing.
1) Aid & Attendance (A&A) / Housebound (for pension recipients)
- What it is: A monthly increase added to VA pension for veterans/surviving spouses who need help with daily activities (A&A) or are substantially confined (Housebound). Note: You can’t receive both A&A and Housebound simultaneously. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints (quick):
- You receive a VA pension (not just compensation).
- You need regular aid for ADLs or are housebound due to permanent disability.
- Use VA Form 21-2680 (clinician completes). Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Helpful context: Pension MAPR examples show how A&A changes payment amounts. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Apply/learn: A&A/Housebound page; VA Form 21-2680.
Bottom line: If you’re on pension and need daily help or are homebound, file 21-2680.
2) CHAMPVA (health coverage for eligible spouses/dependents)
- What it is: Health coverage when the family doesn’t qualify for TRICARE and the veteran meets service-connected criteria (e.g., P&T). Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints:
- Not eligible for TRICARE and one of the listed veteran status criteria applies (e.g., service-connected, permanently and totally disabled).
- If eligible for Medicare, must have Parts A & B (Medicare Advantage satisfies the requirement). Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Apply/learn: CHAMPVA page and Form 10-7959A (online). Last updated: Jan 1, 2026.
Bottom line: If your spouse/dependent lost TRICARE or never had it, CHAMPVA may fill the gap.
3) Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
- What it is: Extra compensation for specific disabilities/needs (e.g., loss of use, need for aid and attendance) on top of your basic rating. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints:
- You have qualifying conditions (e.g., severe vision loss, need for A&A, amputations/loss of use).
- Check the 2026 SMC rate page for levels and add-ons.
- Apply/learn: SMC overview + 2026 rates.
Bottom line: If your daily function changed, you may qualify for SMC even at the same base rating.
4) Beneficiary Travel Pay (BTSSS)
- What it is: Mileage reimbursement and, when eligible, special-mode transportation for VA care travel; deductible waivers exist. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints: One of the following often qualifies—30%+ service-connected, traveling for C&P exam, VA pension, or income below pension limit. (Local VAMCs list the same core criteria.) Source: VA.gov (program pages), last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Apply/learn: Use BTSSS; reimbursement form VA Form 10-3542 (rev. May 2025). Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
Bottom line: Submit claims within 30 days of travel and set up BTSSS for faster payments.
5) Space-Available (Space-A) travel for 100% permanent & total (P&T) veterans
- What it is: Category VI access to unused seats on AMC flights for 100% P&T veterans (and eligible dependents when accompanied). Source: AMC & VA News, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Key limitation (often missed): Travel is limited to CONUS and directly between CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa (plus within those areas). No other OCONUS (e.g., Japan/Korea) unless separately eligible. Source: MyAirForceBenefits & AMC terminals, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints:
- P&T (100%) service-connected and have DD Form 2765 (tan) ID.
- Category VI priority; seats are not guaranteed.
- Apply/learn: AMC Space-A page + email signup.
Bottom line: Great for flexible travel—but confirm routes and restrictions before you show up.
6) Commissary, Exchange & MWR access (for disabled veterans)
- What it is: Access to on-base shopping/recreation for eligible veterans (e.g., service-connected disability) and caregivers; needs DoD-recognized ID + base access. Source: VA resources + Defense Commissary Agency, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints:
- Service-connected disability rating + honorable service (or other listed categories).
- Enroll for recurring base access at the Visitor Center as required.
Bottom line: Bring the correct ID and enroll for access—a VA health card alone won’t get you on base.
7) VA Dental care + VADIP (insurance)
- What it is: Class-based dental eligibility (from full care to limited emergency/one-time care); if you don’t qualify, VADIP offers discounted insurance plans. Source: VA dental pages, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints:
- Check your dental class (e.g., 100% service-connected → comprehensive care; some recently discharged may get one-time course).
- If not eligible, compare VADIP plans.
Bottom line: Don’t assume you’re ineligible—your dental class or recent discharge status may unlock care.
8) VALife (Veterans Affairs Life Insurance)
- What it is: Guaranteed-acceptance whole-life insurance for veterans with any VA disability rating (0–100%); up to $40,000 coverage; no time limit to apply if ≤80. Special rule for 81+. Source: VA.gov & VALife FAQ, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Important 2026 note: If you apply for VALife on or after Jan 1, 2026, any existing S-DVI will end once VALife is approved; no premium waiver feature in VALife. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints:
- Age ≤80 with any VA service-connected rating or qualifying 81+ rule.
- Understand the two-year graded period before full face value.
Bottom line: If you were denied elsewhere or aged into higher premiums, VALife is worth a look now.
9) VR&E (Chapter 31) + 2026 subsistence allowance
- What it is: Career & independent living services with a monthly subsistence allowance while training; 2026 max scenarios are published. Source: VA VBA pages, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints:
- Service-connected disability + employment handicap; VR&E counselor determines entitlement.
- Check subsistence by training rate/dependents. Source: VA VBA, last checked: January 28, 2026.
Bottom line: If school/job training is on your 2026 list, compare VR&E vs. GI Bill for the better fit.
10) Burial & memorial benefits (and burial allowance)
- What it is: Gravesite, liner, opening/closing, government headstone/marker, burial flag, Presidential Memorial Certificate at no cost in national cemeteries; burial allowances for private cemeteries (amounts vary by service connection). Source: NCA & VBA pages, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- 2026-relevant figures: For non-service-connected deaths on/after Oct 1, 2024, VA lists up to $978 toward burial/funeral and $978 plot allowance if not interred in a national cemetery. (Always confirm current rates.) Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
Bottom line: Pre-plan documents and tell your family which benefits you want used.
11) Home benefits you might be missing: IRRRL, Cash-Out, NADL, VA REO via VRM
- IRRRL (“streamline”): Refinance an existing VA-backed loan to reduce rate or stabilize payments (updated VA page in Jan 2026). Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Cash-Out refinance: Replace your loan (even non-VA) and tap equity—know costs/closing. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- NADL (direct loan): For Native American veterans (or non-Native spouses married to a Native American veteran) with tribal MOU; can buy/build/improve on trust land. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- VA REO homes via VRM: VA-acquired properties marketed by Vendor Resource Management (VRM); browse at VRM Properties. Source: VA & VRM, last checked: January 28, 2026.
Bottom line: Shop rates, and if you’re Native American or buying on trust land, check NADL first.
12) PACT Act reminders (toxic exposure cohorts)
- What it is: Expanded health care/benefits for toxic exposures (burn pits, Agent Orange, more), plus an internal VA process for future presumptives. Source: VA.gov & DAV, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Eligibility checkpoints:
- Served in listed locations/eras and developed presumptive conditions;
- File if denied before—criteria changed.
Bottom line: If you had a toxic exposure claim denied years ago, refile under PACT Act criteria.
Comparison table (quick scan)
| Benefit | Who typically qualifies (summary) | What you get | Key form/link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aid & Attendance / Housebound | On VA pension + needs ADL help or housebound | Monthly pension increase | 21-2680; A&A page |
| CHAMPVA | Family not TRICARE-eligible + veteran meets listed criteria (e.g., P&T) | Health coverage; Medicare A&B required if eligible | CHAMPVA page, 10-7959A |
| SMC | Specific disabilities/needs (loss of use, A&A) | Extra, tiered compensation | SMC rates (2026) |
| Beneficiary Travel (BTSSS) | 30%+ SC, C&P exam, VA pension, or income below pension limit | Mileage/transport reimbursement | 10-3542; BTSSS portal |
| Space-A (100% P&T) | 100% P&T w/ DD 2765 | Cat VI seats (CONUS + certain territories) | AMC Space-A + routes |
| Commissary/Exchange/MWR | Service-connected disability, retirees, etc. | On-base shopping & rec | VA resource; DeCA eligibility |
| VA Dental / VADIP | Based on dental class; some one-time eligibilities | Dental care or discounted insurance | Dental overview; VADIP |
| VALife | Any SC rating (0–100%); age ≤80 (special 81+ rule) | $10–40k whole life; 2-yr graded | VALife + FAQ; S-DVI transition |
| VR&E (Ch. 31) | SC disability + employment handicap | Training, counseling, subsistence allowance | 2026 rates page |
| Burial & memorial | Eligible veterans/family | Gravesite, headstone/marker, flag; burial allowance | NCA benefits; allowance page |
| IRRRL | Existing VA loan | Easier refi to reduce rate/payment | IRRRL page (2026) |
| NADL / Cash-Out | NADL: Native American vet + tribal MOU; Cash-Out: eligibility + equity | Direct loan on trust land / refinance w/ cash | NADL page; Cash-Out page |
The 10-minute 2026 eligibility checklist
- Open your current rating & dependency info; compare against 2026 rates. Source: VA.gov, last checked: Jan 28, 2026.
- If you receive pension, print 21-2680 and book a clinician visit for A&A/Housebound.
- If your spouse/child isn’t TRICARE-eligible, start a CHAMPVA application; confirm Medicare rule.
- If ADLs got harder in 2025–26, ask your VSO about SMC levels.
- Traveling for VA care? Set up BTSSS and save receipts; know deductible waivers.
- 100% P&T? Verify Space-A limits before heading to a gateway.
- Check base Visitor Center rules for commissary/exchange access; bring acceptable ID.
- Review VA dental class; if ineligible, price VADIP.
- Need life coverage? Compare VALife benefits + S-DVI implications.
- Planning ahead? Share burial preferences with family; note allowance rules.
- Considering a mortgage refi? Read IRRRL and Cash-Out pages; Native American vets check NADL.
- Toxic exposure history? Re-check PACT Act presumptives and refile if previously denied.
Avoid common pitfalls & 2026 myths
- “Space-A lets me fly worldwide.” Not if you’re using the 100% P&T category—CONUS and specified territories only (with some gateways noting denials to Japan/Korea). Source: AMC & terminals, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- “My VA health card gets me on base.” No. You need a DoD-recognized ID and Visitor Center enrollment as required. Source: VA News & DeCA, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- “S-DVI waivers carry into VALife.” They don’t. Be sure you’re okay with the two-year grading and lack of premium waivers before switching. Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
Sensitive facts & sources (spot checks)
- 2026 disability/SMC rates & COLA: VA.gov rate pages; VBA newsletter (2.8% COLA). Source: VA.gov & VBA, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- A&A/Housebound rules; VA Form 21-2680: Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- CHAMPVA eligibility/Medicare coordination: Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- BTSSS eligibility & form 10-3542: Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Space-A limits & category: Source: AMC & MyAirForceBenefits, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- VALife coverage/limits & S-DVI transition: Source: VA.gov, last checked: January 28, 2026.
- Burial allowance amounts & memorial benefits: Source: VA.gov (VBA/NCA), last checked: January 28, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not legal, medical, tax, or financial advice. Benefit amounts and eligibility can change. Always confirm on VA.gov and consult an accredited VSO/attorney for your situation.
FAQs
- What are the most overlooked VA benefits in 2026?
Aid & Attendance/Housebound, CHAMPVA, SMC, Beneficiary Travel, Space-A (100% P&T), commissary/exchange, VALife, VR&E subsistence, VA dental/VADIP, burial allowances, and housing options like IRRRL/NADL. - How do I check if I’m eligible for VA Aid & Attendance in 2026?
You must be on VA pension and need help with ADLs or be housebound; submit VA Form 21-2680 completed by a clinician. - Can 100% disabled veterans fly Space-A to Europe or Japan?
Generally no under the 100% P&T category; travel is limited to CONUS and specified territories (e.g., Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa). - Does my spouse qualify for CHAMPVA if we have Medicare Advantage?
Yes—Medicare Advantage meets the Part A & B requirement for CHAMPVA. - What’s the 2026 VA COLA increase?
2.8%, effective with January 2026 payments (Dec 2025 entitlement). - What is VALife and how much coverage can I get?
Guaranteed-acceptance life insurance for veterans with any SC rating, up to $40,000, with a two-year graded period. - How do I get reimbursed for VA medical travel?
File via BTSSS or VA Form 10-3542; many qualify through 30%+ rating, C&P, pension, or income limits. - What are VA burial benefits if I choose a private cemetery?
A burial allowance may help with expenses, plus a government headstone/marker; amounts vary—up to $978 (non-service-connected) as currently listed.