Overview of the 60 VA Disability Pay Increase
This guide explains what a 60 VA disability pay increase means, who is eligible, and when the VA issues payments. It focuses on practical steps to confirm updated amounts and what to expect for payout dates.
How VA Disability Rates Get Updated
VA disability compensation rates typically change once a year, often tied to the federal cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The VA posts official updated tables for each benefit year on VA.gov.
Always check the official VA rates page for the exact monthly dollar figure for a 60% rating and any dependent adjustments. This avoids relying on third-party summaries that may be out of date.
VA disability payments are usually adjusted once a year with the same COLA applied to Social Security benefits. The VA posts new compensation tables after the COLA is announced.
Who Is Eligible for a 60% VA Disability Rating?
A 60% disability rating is assigned when one or more service-connected conditions combine to equal that level of impairment. Eligibility depends on the VA rating schedule and evidence that conditions are service-connected.
To qualify for the 60% rate you must:
- Have at least one condition (or combined conditions) rated at 60% by the VA.
- Have the conditions service-connected and supported by medical evidence.
- Complete required exams (C&P exams) and submit relevant records.
Common Paths to a 60% Rating
Many veterans reach 60% via combined ratings from multiple conditions, such as a 30% rating for one condition plus a 30% for another, or a single condition rated at 60% under the schedule.
If you disagree with a rating decision, you can file a Notice of Disagreement and pursue an appeal or a Supplemental Claim with new evidence.
Updated Amount: How to Find Your 60 VA Disability Pay Increase
The VA posts the official monthly compensation schedule on VA.gov after COLA is announced. Your exact pay can change based on dependents, household status, and additional special monthly compensation (SMC) if applicable.
Steps to find the updated amount:
- Go to VA.gov and search for “disability compensation rates”.
- Choose the benefit year or table for veterans without dependents or with dependents as needed.
- Locate the row for a 60% rating. That shows the new monthly amount.
Note: If you receive additional allowances (for spouse, children, or aid and attendance), your total payment will be higher than the base 60% rate shown on the table.
Example Calculation (Illustrative)
The following is an example to show how increases are applied. This is illustrative only — check VA.gov for official numbers.
- Previous monthly base at 60%: $X (example).
- COLA increase: Y% (example).
- New monthly base = previous base × (1 + Y%).
Always round to the cents and confirm with VA statements.
Payout Dates for 60 VA Disability Pay Increase
VA disability compensation is paid on the 1st of each month for most veterans. If the 1st falls on a weekend or federal holiday, VA typically pays on the last business day before the 1st.
Key points about payouts:
- Payments are deposited electronically into your account on the scheduled date.
- If you are newly rated and receive a retroactive award, the VA issues a lump-sum retro payment that covers the backpay period.
- Changes to your bank account or direct deposit details can delay payments, so update information promptly in VA.gov or with your financial institution.
When You’ll See the Increase
If the VA posts new rates for the benefit year, your monthly payment will reflect the increase starting with the next scheduled monthly disbursement after the rates take effect. Retroactive amounts, if any, are included in separate retro payments.
What To Do If You Don’t See the Updated Amount
If your monthly deposit does not reflect the expected increase, first check the official VA compensation table and your award letter. Confirm whether the COLA or new rate applies to your specific circumstances.
Next steps if there’s a discrepancy:
- Review your VA.gov account and payment history.
- Call or visit your regional VA office to request clarification.
- Ask for an explanation of how your dependents or SMC affect your total payment.
Small Real-World Case Study
Case: “Mark,” a hypothetical veteran with a combined 60% rating and one dependent. Prior to the annual adjustment, Mark received a base monthly payment plus dependent allowance.
After the VA announced a COLA, Mark checked VA.gov, confirmed the new 60% rate, and noted the increased monthly amount. He saw the higher deposit on the first business day of the month and a small retro payment covering the rate effective date to the payment start date.
This mirrors the usual process: check official tables, expect payment on the 1st (or prior business day), and watch for any retro payments.
Practical Checklist for Veterans with a 60% Rating
- Check VA.gov for the current compensation table and your award letter.
- Confirm direct deposit info is current in your VA profile.
- Track the first monthly payment after the new rates take effect and expect possible retro pay.
- If you disagree with your rating or calculation, file an appeal or contact your VA regional office.
Following these steps will help you confirm the updated amount, understand eligibility factors, and know when to expect the 60 VA disability pay increase in your account.
