Veterans with a 60% disability rating are set to receive a pay increase as part of the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2026. This COLA adjustment helps veterans keep pace with inflation, ensuring their benefits are enough to cover rising costs. Starting December 1, 2025, qualifying veterans will see an increase in their monthly benefits, offering financial relief to those who served our country. Here’s what you need to know about the increase, new benefit amounts, and the payment schedule.
60% VA Disability Pay Increase Overview
The 2026 VA brings a 2.5% COLA adjustment to help veterans maintain financial stability. This adjustment applies to veterans with a disability rating of 60%. For a veteran with this rating, the monthly payment will rise from approximately $1,362 to $1,396.
This increase, though modest, adds up over the year, providing extra financial relief for veterans dealing with daily expenses like housing, transportation, and healthcare.
60% VA Disability Benefits Increase 2026: Overview
| Program Name | VA Disability Compensation |
| Department | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs |
| Eligibility | Veterans with a 60% disability rating |
| Payment Date | Paid on the 1st business day of each month |
| Maximum Benefit | $1,396 to $1,727 per month depending on dependents and other factors |
| Increase Percentage | 2.5% COLA adjustment |
| Official Website | www.va.gov |
Eligibility for 60% VA Disability Benefits
Veterans with a 60% disability rating are eligible for the 2.5% COLA increase for 2026. This benefit is available to veterans who:
- Have a 60% service-connected disability rating as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Meet income and residency criteria set by the VA (though most veterans who have this disability rating will automatically qualify).
To determine the specific amount you will receive, the VA also considers whether you have dependents, such as a spouse or children. Those with additional dependents can receive a higher monthly payment.
How Much Will You Receive After the 60% VA Disability Pay Increase?
Veterans with a 60% disability rating will see an approximate monthly increase, depending on their dependent status. Here are the payment amounts for November 2025 (after the 2.5% increase):
| Situation | Monthly Payment (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Veteran Alone | $1,396 |
| Veteran + Spouse | $1,470 |
| Veteran + 1 Child | $1,526 |
| Veteran + 1 Parent | $1,472 |
| Veteran + 2 Parents | $1,527 |
Additional for Dependent Children:
- Each child under age 18: $70
- Each school child over 18: $225
These payments are tax-free and will be issued directly via direct deposit or check, depending on your preferences and VA records.
Payment Details
Veterans can expect their 60% disability payment to be deposited on the 1st business day of every month. If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment will be issued on the last business day before the 1st.
Example:
- December Payment: Paid on December 1snt, 2025 (or the last business day of November if December 1st is a weekend).
If you have a direct deposit account linked with the VA, payments will be sent directly to your bank account, which is the fastest way to receive your benefits.
Other Benefits for 60% Disability Veterans
In addition to monthly disability compensation, veterans with a 60% disability rating are eligible for several other benefits, such as:
- VA Healthcare for service-connected disabilities.
- Mental health services.
- Hearing aids, mobility aids, and glasses.
- VA dental coverage (in limited cases).
- Life insurance under VALife.
- Housing benefits, including:
- Zero-down VA home loans.
- Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants.
- Subsidized education through the GI Bill.
- Property tax exemptions (depending on state).
- Disabled veteran license plates.
Note: Each state may offer additional benefits, including emergency financial assistance, free hunting/fishing licenses, and transportation subsidies.
How to Check Your 60% VA Disability Pay Status?
To check the status of your VA disability payment and determine the exact amount, follow these steps:?
- Log in to your VA.gov account to view your payment history and upcoming payments.
- Use the VA disability calculator to estimate your monthly compensation based on your disability rating and dependent status.
- Contact the VA for discrepancies or questions regarding your disability rating or payment status.
Latest Update on 60% VA Disability Benefits
As of November 2025, the VA has confirmed that the 2.5% COLA increase is applicable to all eligible veterans with a 60% disability rating. Payments are being processed according to the usual schedule, with direct deposit being the fastest method of receiving your benefits.
Why It Matters?
This 2.5% COLA adjustment is essential for veterans who face daily challenges with healthcare costs, housing expenses, and other costs of living. While the increase may seem modest, over time, it significantly helps veterans maintain financial stability.
Key Takeaway: Veterans with a 60% disability rating will see their monthly payments increase by around $34 starting December 2025. This increase adds up, contributing to greater financial independence and providing relief for veterans facing rising living costs.
Final Words
The 2.5% COLA increase for 60% VA disability benefits will help thousands of veterans facing rising costs. Ensure your direct deposit information is updated, and be ready for your monthly payment starting December 2025. For any concerns or discrepancies, always reach out to the VA for clarification.
FAQs
How much will my monthly payment be with a 60% VA disability rating in 2026?
Your monthly payment will be approximately $1,396 if you’re a veteran without dependents. The amount will increase with additional dependents.
When will the 60% disability payment be made for December 2025?
The payment will be made on the 1st business day of December 2025, which is December 1st, 2025 (or the last business day of November if the 1st is a weekend).
Do I need to do anything to receive the 2.5% COLA increase?
No, if you are already receiving VA disability benefits, the COLA adjustment will automatically apply to your monthly payments starting December 1, 2025.
How do I track my VA disability payment status?
Log in to your VA.gov account or use the VA disability calculator to track your payments and verify the amount you are entitled to.
Are 60% VA disability payments taxable?
No, VA disability payments are tax-exempt.