May 2025 would bring a much-needed financial boost in particular for disabled U.S. veterans. This month, veterans with a 60% disability rating and no dependents will receive a monthly payment of $1,395.93 all because of the recent 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). While inflation continues to affect many households in America, the COLA increase will help veterans to remain financially stability.
More about the 60% VA disability payment?
As per the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), monthly tax-free payments are issued to qualifying veterans who are eligible based on the extent and severity of their service-connected disabilities. The way payments are structured are in accordance with 10% increments, with a 60% rating being one of the more substantial tiers representing conditions that significantly impact daily life and employability.
During this 2025 year, a veteran with a 60% disability rating and no dependents will receive $1,395.93 per month, up from $1,361.88 last year which is a $34.05 increase as a result of the 2.5% COLA. This adjustment has been put in place to ensure that veterans’ benefits are able to keep up with inflation and rising living costs.
The first business day of the month is generally the payment date for this benefit which means that all eligible veterans would have received their adjusted $1,395.93 deposit on Thursday, May 1.
Who will receive the $1,395 VA disability payment?
Veterans will need to meet specific criteria requirements set by the Department of Veteran Affairs in order to qualify for this benefit. Included as per the essential requirements are:
- Veterans who have a service-connected disability rated 60% by the VA
- Veterans in possession of a valid Social Security number and updated records
- Veterans with no qualifying dependents (spouse, children, or dependent parents
- Veterans who are U.S. citizens or who have legal permanent residency
- Veterans who had an honorable discharge from military service
The disability rating would also impact how severely a veteran’s medical condition may interfere with their ability to function and work. Veterans with dependents will receive higher payments this month as well, however, the base rate of $1,395.93 is mainly applicable to veterans without any dependents.
Ways to apply for an increase in VA disability pay
Many veterans are unaware of exactly how much benefit they can claim. All eligible veterans are required to submit a claim through the official VA website, www.va.gov, or even through their nearest VA regional office in order to receive or increase VA disability pay.
The application process for applying for an increase in VA disability pay entails:
- Fill out VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability Compensation)
- Submit the necessary medical documentation and service records
- Wait for the VA to process and confirm eligibility which can take several weeks
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) ready and willing to assist by providing guidance on this filing process for free.
Other veteran benefits beyond the monthly payment
Along with the monthly disability payment, a 60% disability rating gives beneficiaries access to other benefits, including that of:
- VA Health Care: Free or low-cost medical treatment for all service-connected ailments
- Educational Support: Aid for non-degree programs and the option of job retraining
- Housing Assistance: Eligibility for VA-backed mortgage loans and adapted housing grants
- Tax Preparation: Access to free tax filing services through VA programs
- Burial and Memorial Benefits: Plot allowances and burial services for veterans and eligible family members
Many of the veterans experiencing severe disabilities or certain conditions could possible also qualify for the Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). The SMC is an additional benefit meant to address more extensive needs or caregiver costs.
This monthly $1,395 which is inclusive of the COLA increase does come at a vital time for disabled veterans. Veterans who qualify for these benefits but haven’t yet applied have the chance to explore the full range of benefits available and they should take the required steps to get supported in their journey after service. Veterans with surplus cash can consider PayPal’s boosted balances option to make the VA benefits received work for them.
