VA Benefits Claims Backlog Drops Below 100,000 for First Time in Six Years

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced in February that the backlog of disability compensation and pension claims has fallen below 100,000 for the first time since May 2020. This marks a major milestone in the VA’s ongoing efforts to ensure veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned in a timely manner. As veteran disability attorneys, we see this news as a positive signal, and we’re happy to hear it.

What This Means for Veterans with a Claim

A VA claim is considered backlogged once it has been pending for more than 125 days. Historically, these delays have caused significant frustration for veterans waiting for disability compensation or pension benefits. 

In 2013, 70% of claims were over 125 days old, which was a record high. As of today (February 2026), that number is at 17%. Since January 20, 2025, the VA has reduced the backlog by 63%, indicating faster processing times and easier access to benefits for vets.

Big Achievements in VA Services Announced

Secretary Doug Collins highlighted in the VA press release that VA claims processing is now at its highest productivity ever. This milestone is part of a series of achievements under the current administration, including:

• Opening 33 new VA health care facilities, which is expected to improve access to care nationwide.
• Processing over 3 million disability compensation and pension claims in the 2025 fiscal year, which breaks all previous records.
• Offering more than 2.2 million appointments outside normal hours, helping veterans get what they need with greater flexibility.
• Permanently housing over 51,900 homeless veterans, the highest total in seven years.

We’re happy to hear of these improvements, which showcase the VA’s commitment to ensuring that veterans receive the care and support they deserve on time.

How a Veterans Disability Attorney at Gang & Associates Can Help You

Even with the backlog shrinking, navigating the VA benefits system is still a complex process and often frustrating. Working with a veteran’s disability attorney can make a significant difference, helping you:

• Accurately file and track your VA disability claims appeal
• Avoid common errors that can delay processing (even with the record-low processing times)
• Appeal denied claims effectively

Veterans facing challenges with their claims don’t have to navigate the system alone. An experienced veteran’s disability attorney at our firm can guide you every step of the way.

Speak with a Veterans Disability Attorney Today for a Review of Your Case

If you are a veteran concerned about a denied claim, we invite you to speak with our VA disability attorneys. For personalized guidance and to ensure your claim is handled properly, reach out to a veterans disability attorney today.