There is great news for veterans living in America in May 2025. The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced an increase in disability payments. Under this increase, the amount received every month for veterans with a disability rating of 60 percent will increase. If you or someone you know is on a VA disability rating of 60 percent, then in this article, we will know how much will be received, how to become eligible, what the application process is, when the payment will be made, and what other additional benefits are available for you.
What are VA disability benefits, and why are they important
The US Department of Veterans Affairs says that the service of those soldiers ends when they leave the army. But many soldiers get physically or mentally injured during military service. In such a situation, it becomes difficult for them to do a regular job. VA disability benefits are government assistance that shares the burden of combat and provides financial aid to veterans.
The government assigns veterans a disability rating based on their injuries, illnesses, or mental health problems. It can range from 0 percent to 100 percent. The higher the rating, the higher the monthly amount. For example, a veteran with a 60 percent rating will receive approximately $1,395.93 per month after the 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
Basis of Disability Rating
- 10% rating: Mild injury or illness, such as a slight loss of a joint
- 30–50% rating: Moderate severity, such as chronic back pain, diabetes, etc.
- 60% rating: Severe injury, such as partial paralysis, heart disease, etc.
- 100% rating: Total disability, such as cerebral palsy, advanced cancer, etc.
The disability rating depends on how much the injury or illness incapacitates the soldier. For example, a soldier suffers a leg fracture and has a mobility impairment despite rehabilitation. If it becomes a permanent impairment even after rehabilitation, he may receive a minimum rating of 60 percent.
Amount and COLA increase at a 60 percent rating
A 2.5% COLA increase has been implemented in VA disability benefits in May 2025. This is intended to maintain a balance between inflation and cost increases. This COLA increase has resulted in additional amounts for veterans each month.
| Rating | May 2025 Amount (per month) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $165.92 |
| 30% | $519.02 |
| 60% | $1,395.93 |
| 70% | $1,788.25 |
| 100% | $3,621.95 |
Note: The amounts given above are illustrative. The exact amount can be checked from the table available on the official VA website.
Importance of COLA Increase
When inflation is high, the purchasing power of the compensation given to veterans decreases. If the government does not make inflation adjustments, the compensation amount may be less than the inflation rate. That is why COLA is implemented every year. After the COLA was implemented in May 2025, veterans with a 60% rating have received an additional approximately $34, increasing their monthly assistance from $1,361 to $1,395.93.
Eligibility criteria
The following conditions must be met to receive a 60 percent VA disability pay increase:
- Being a US citizen or legal resident
The veteran must be a US citizen or a lawful permanent resident. - Service-Connected Disability
The injury or illness must have occurred during military service. Non-service-related health problems are not covered by disability pay. - Honorable Discharge
The veteran must have been honorably discharged from the military. Other types of leave may cancel eligibility. - Disability rating 60% or higher
The rating must be at least 60 percent, certified by the VA Medical Board. - Social Security Number (SSN) and personal details
The SSN and other personal information (date of birth, contact details) must be current and up to date on VA records.
Eligibility example
Imagine that Mr. Verma, who lives in Texas, was honorably discharged from the Army in 2010. He has a back injury that causes mobility problems. The VA Medical Board rated his chronic back pain as a service-connected injury and gave him a 60 percent rating. After the May 2025 COLA increase, Mr. Verma will receive $1,395.93 per month.
Application process
The process of applying for VA disability pay is simple, but many veterans get stuck due to technical or documentation issues. Below is the complete process:
- Visit the VA official website
Log in or create a new account at va.gov - Fill out VA Form 21-526EZ
- Fill out your personal information, service history, and disability details on the form.
- Attach previous medical reports, discharge papers (DD214), and other supporting documents.
- Upload or mail documents
- Upload scanned copies through the online portal.
- Or visit your nearest VA center and file the form and documents.
- You can also send the form by post or fax.
- Get an FAO number
After submitting the form, you will receive an FAO (File Appeal Office) number. Please keep it safe. - Processing and review
The VA will review your documents and conduct a thorough investigation by the medical board. During this time, you may be asked for additional information or a medical exam. - Decision and payment initiation
You will be notified by letter when a decision is made. If your rating is set at 60 percent, the increased amount will be directly deposited into your bank account from the next month.
Application Help
- Veterans Service Organization (VSO)
VSOs often offer free services, such as completing forms, gathering documents, and providing information about the process. - VA Helpline
Get expert guidance by calling 1-800-827-1000. - Private attorney or agency
If your claim is complex, contact an experienced attorney or agency—they may charge a fee, but can move cases forward quickly and efficiently.
Additional benefits and assistance programs
In addition to VA Disability Pay, several other programs help veterans:
VA Health Care Benefits
- Free or low-cost medical care
- Primary care, specialist counseling, and hospitalization
- Medications, surgery, and psychological support
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
- Additional amounts for veterans with severe or extreme disabilities
- Example: Additional $100–$200 per month for the permanent loss of two limbs
Housing Aids
- HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program: Public housing assistance
- Specially Adapted Housing (SAH): A Home adaptation program that provides disability-friendly home accommodations
Educational Benefits
- GI Bill: Tuition assistance for bachelor’s, master’s, and trade school
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Skills development, job training
Other private and federal assistance
- $500 monthly federal stimulus check (where applicable)
- State-level grants such as the Texas Veteran Land Board, California College Fee Waiver
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question 1: Will only veterans with a 60 percent rating receive a raise?
No, veterans with all ratings will receive a raise under the COLA, but this article specifically describes the amount received at a 60 percent rating in detail.
Question 2: Is the raise taxable?
VA disability pay is non-taxable. It does not need to be included on an income tax return.
Question 3: Will I receive a raise if my rating is currently provisional?
You may be eligible for an increase as soon as you receive a provisional rating, provided your final rating is properly updated.
Question 4: What if my disability rating keeps changing around 60?
Each year, you can apply for a rating review. If new medical evidence is found, the rating may be raised, and the new amount will be received at the next COLA.
Conclusion
The increased amount of benefits available at a 60 percent VA disability rating has brought significant relief to veterans. Given the rising inflation and cost of living, this COLA-based adjustment will help them manage their family budget. By understanding the eligibility, application process, and additional benefits, you or your friend/family member can ensure timely payments of their entitlements. Keep your VA My Account updated, do not delay filing documents, and avail free VSO support to ensure all your rights are protected and you get regular assistance.
