The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced an important update for veterans receiving disability benefits in 2025.
Following the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) trend, eligible veterans will see their monthly disability payments increase by $60 starting January 2025.
This change comes as part of the annual VA disability pay adjustment tied to the Social Security Administration’s COLA to help veterans cope with inflation and the rising cost of living.
Let’s break down what this increase means, who will benefit, and when the payments will hit the bank accounts of eligible veterans.
Why Is There a $60 Increase in 2025?
Every year, the VA adjusts disability compensation rates based on the COLA set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). For 2025, the COLA has been projected at 3.2%, slightly lower than 2024’s 3.5%, but still a positive adjustment.
This means that veterans who are currently receiving disability benefits will automatically see a $60 average monthly increase, depending on their disability rating and family status.
For example:
- A veteran with a 100% disability rating will see their payment go from around $3,733 to approximately $3,793 per month.
- Lower ratings will see proportional increases.
This adjustment is automatic, and eligible veterans will not need to reapply or take any action to receive the extra pay.
Who Is Eligible for the $60 VA Disability Pay Increase?
The increase applies to all veterans currently receiving monthly disability compensation from the VA. This includes:
- Veterans with a disability rating between 10% and 100%.
- Veterans receiving Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
- Surviving spouses, children, and dependents who receive VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) will also see adjustments.
Eligibility is based on the following:
- You must have an approved disability rating from the VA.
- The rating should not have expired or been reduced.
- Those with pending claims will see the new rate applied if approved after January 2025.
What Are the New VA Disability Rates for 2025?
Here’s an estimated chart of the new monthly disability pay rates for 2025 after the $60 average increase:
| Disability Rating | Old Monthly Pay (2024) | New Monthly Pay (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $171 | $176 |
| 20% | $338 | $349 |
| 30% | $524 | $541 |
| 40% | $755 | $779 |
| 50% | $1,041 | $1,073 |
| 60% | $1,319 | $1,359 |
| 70% | $1,663 | $1,717 |
| 80% | $1,933 | $1,993 |
| 90% | $2,172 | $2,239 |
| 100% | $3,733 | $3,793 |
Note: Rates may vary slightly depending on marital status, dependents, and other factors.
When Will the New Payments Start?
Veterans can expect to see the increased payments reflected in their January 2025 VA disability checks, which are usually sent on February 1, 2025.
The official 2025 VA payment schedule is:
- February 1, 2025
- March 1, 2025
- And so on, following the standard VA payment calendar.
Veterans using direct deposit will see the updated amount credited automatically. Paper check recipients will also get the new amount without needing to request a change.
How Does This Help Veterans?
With inflation still putting pressure on everyday expenses like food, fuel, and healthcare, the extra $60 monthly boost aims to provide relief to veterans and their families.
While it may not fully offset rising living costs, it reflects the government’s continued efforts to adjust benefits in line with the economic environment.
How to Check Your New VA Disability Pay?
Veterans can easily check their updated monthly pay through:
- VA.gov Account Dashboard
- MyPay (for retired veterans receiving CRDP/CRSC alongside disability pay)
- Contacting the VA helpline at 1-800-827-1000
It’s recommended to check statements after the first February 2025 deposit to confirm the updated amount.
Key Points for Veterans to Remember
- The increase is automatic; no need to apply.
- Ensure your bank account details with VA are updated to avoid payment delays.
- Any pending claims or appeals will reflect the new 2025 rates once approved.
- Surviving dependents will also benefit from the updated DIC rates.
Final Thoughts
The $60 VA disability pay increase for 2025 is a positive step toward supporting veterans and their families in maintaining financial stability.
Even though the adjustment is modest compared to inflation rates of the past years, it ensures that the brave men and women who served the nation continue to receive benefits that reflect the rising living expenses.
Veterans are encouraged to stay updated on further announcements from the VA and consult their VA claims officer or local veterans service organization (VSO) if they have questions about the new rates or pending claims.