The Department of Veterans Affairs has processed a record 2.5 million ratings claims in fiscal year 2025, marking the most claims handled in a single year in the agency’s history. The milestone represents a 37% reduction in the claims backlog since President Trump’s inauguration in January.
The achievement signals a dramatic reversal from the previous administration, when the backlog had increased 24% under President Biden.
“In fiscal year 2024, VA processed a total of 2,517,519 ratings claims, and this year the department reached an all-time high of 2,524,115 ratings claims issued Aug. 8 — nearly two months before the end of FY25,” the VA stated in an August 13 press release from the White House.
The agency is processing claims 17.8% faster than last year, despite receiving 10% more applications. July marked another milestone when the VA completed over 300,000 ratings claims in a single month for the first time.
The Trump administration has framed the achievement as fulfilling campaign promises to improve veterans’ services. The White House described the progress as “a resounding victory for America’s heroes” and evidence of the administration’s “unwavering commitment to deliver swift, efficient benefits to our nation’s heroes.”
Veterans’ ratings claims determine disability compensation levels based on service-connected injuries or illnesses. Faster processing means quicker access to monthly benefits and healthcare services for millions of veterans nationwide.