If you’re a veteran with a 60% VA disability rating, there’s some good news for 2025. The VA has confirmed a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that will increase monthly disability compensation payments. This update is based on inflation and is designed to help veterans keep up with rising living costs.
Let’s break down what this increase means for your 60% rating, how much more you can expect to receive, when it starts, and how eligibility works.
What Is a VA Disability 60% Rating and Why It Matters
If the VA assigns you a 60% disability rating, it means your service-connected conditions are considered significantly disabling and affect your ability to work or function daily. You’re entitled to monthly tax-free compensation, with the amount depending on your rating and family situation.
For example, a single veteran with no dependents receives less than one with a spouse or children. The higher your rating, the more financial support you get and the 60% level is a major milestone for many vets because it’s often the point where benefits become more substantial.
When the 2025 VA Disability Pay Increase Starts
The VA disability pay increase takes effect on January 1, 2025, and the first increased payment will be included in your February 1, 2025 deposit.
This increase is tied to the Social Security COLA, which was announced in October 2024 at 3.2%. That means all disability ratings, including the 60% tier, will see a 3.2% boost in monthly compensation.
Key dates:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 2024 | COLA for 2025 officially announced |
| January 1, 2025 | New payment rates take effect |
| February 1, 2025 | First payment at new rate hits accounts |
How Much Will You Get in 2025? 60% VA Disability Payment Chart
Here’s what your 2025 monthly VA disability pay will look like with the 3.2% increase if you’re at the 60% rating level. These are estimates based on the 2024 rates, adjusted for the new COLA.
| Family Situation | 2024 Rate | 2025 Rate (3.2% Increase) |
|---|---|---|
| Veteran alone | $1,361.88 | $1,405.46 |
| With spouse | $1,466.88 | $1,513.87 |
| With spouse & one child | $1,557.88 | $1,607.74 |
| With one parent | $1,442.88 | $1,489.26 |
| With two parents | $1,523.88 | $1,572.64 |
| With spouse, one child, and one parent | $1,633.88 | $1,686.17 |
| With spouse, one child, and two parents | $1,714.88 | $1,769.12 |
These are approximate figures and the final numbers will be confirmed by the VA in late 2024.
How Eligibility for a 60% Rating Works – Explained Simply
To qualify for a 60% VA disability rating, your service-connected condition or conditions must significantly impact your daily life or ability to work. The 60% rating can be for a single severe condition or the result of several combined conditions.
Here’s what affects your eligibility:
- You need strong medical evidence showing your condition’s severity
- The condition must be connected to your military service
- The VA assigns a percentage based on how much the condition limits your functioning
For example, someone with severe migraines and back problems might receive individual ratings that combine to reach 60%.
Common Mistakes Veterans Make with VA Disability Pay and How to Avoid Them
Many veterans miss out on full benefits because of avoidable errors. Here are the most common ones:
Not reporting life changes
Getting married, divorced, or having a child? Update your info. Otherwise, your pay may be incorrect.
Missing C&P exams or re-evaluations
If the VA asks for updated medical exams and you skip them, your rating could be reduced or benefits paused.
Not appealing a low rating
If you believe your rating should be higher, you can file a Notice of Disagreement and request a review.
Assuming you can’t go higher
Some veterans settle at 60% when they might qualify for a higher rating or TDIU (Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability).
Best Tips to Make the Most of Your 60% VA Disability Pay
To get the most out of your benefits in 2025 and beyond:
- Keep your information up to date on VA.gov, especially your address and bank details
- Track your symptoms and how they affect your daily life in case you need to request an increase
- Use your local VSO (Veterans Service Officer) for help with claims and appeals
- Don’t overlook other VA benefits like healthcare, education, and housing assistance
The Latest Updates in VA Disability Benefits for 2025
Besides the COLA increase, 2025 brings a few updates that may affect you:
- Digital processing tools are speeding up claim approvals
- Mental health conditions are being prioritized for faster evaluations
- PACT Act expansions continue to support toxic exposure claims, especially for Gulf War and post-9/11 veterans
Stay in touch with the VA or your local VSO to make sure you’re aware of new opportunities and benefits.
Conclusion
For veterans with a 60% VA disability rating, the 2025 pay increase means more money in your pocket starting in February. With a 3.2% raise across the board, this helps cover rising costs and brings you one step closer to financial security.
Make sure your information is up to date, your benefits are maximized, and that you’re prepared to act if your condition changes. The VA system can be complicated, but with the right information, you can stay ahead.
FAQ
When will the new VA disability pay rates start in 2025?
January 1, 2025, but you’ll see the increased payment on February 1, 2025.
What will the new 60% VA disability payment be in 2025?
A single veteran will receive approximately $1,405.46 per month, based on a 3.2% COLA increase.
Why did VA disability payments increase in 2025?
The increase is due to the annual cost-of-living adjustment, which helps keep benefits in line with inflation.
How do I qualify for a 60% VA disability rating?
You must have one or more service-connected conditions with symptoms that significantly impact your ability to function, supported by medical evidence.
Can I move from 60% to 100% VA disability?
Yes, if your conditions worsen or you become unable to work, you can apply for a rating increase or TDIU.
