If you’re a veteran with a 60% VA disability rating, you might be wondering if there’s a way to increase it to 100%.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with concise and easy-to-understand information on how to potentially achieve a higher disability rating and maximize your VA benefits in the new year.
Understanding VA Disability Ratings
Your VA disability rating is determined by the severity of your service-related disabilities.
The higher your rating, the more compensation you and your family receive.
The VA combines your individual disability ratings to calculate your total disability percentage using a specific table.
For example, if you have a 60% rating for one disability and a 20% rating for another, your combined rating would be rounded to 70%.
Monthly Compensation for 60% Disability Rating
As of 2025, veterans with a 60% disability rating can receive the following monthly compensation:
- Currently, the monthly VA disability benefit for a veteran with a 60% disability rating and no dependents is $1,395.93.
- If you are a veteran with a 60% rating and have a dependent spouse, you can receive $1,523.93 per month.
- For veterans with a dependent child in addition to a spouse, the amount increases to $1,617.93 per month.
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Understand the Diagnostic Code and Rating Sheet
Familiarize yourself with the VA’s rating criteria for your condition from the VA rating code sheet. Determine if your symptoms warrant a higher rating (70%, 80%, 90%, or 100%). Increasing your VA disability rating from 60% to 100% is challenging, but it’s not impossible.
File a VA Disability Claim or Appeal
If you believe your rating is incorrect, file an appeal (within a year of the VA decision) or a new disability claim. The earlier you file, the better, as it affects your claim’s effective date and potential compensation. Get a free evaluation of your claim to see what best suits you – we’ll point you in the right direction even if we don’t take your case.
To succeed, you should submit medical evidence as well as statements from family members, friends, or fellow veterans (buddy letters) who can attest to how your disability affects your daily life. These letters can help strengthen your claim by providing personal insights into your condition’s impact.
Filing a timely claim or appeal, accompanied by supportive statements, records and other evidence, can improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU)
TDIU allows veterans with a single service-connected condition rated at 60% to receive the same benefits as those with a 100% rating.
If your condition makes you unable to work and your income falls below the federal poverty level, you may be eligible for TDIU.
Remember, every veteran’s situation is unique, so it’s essential to consult with a VA-accredited representative or attorney for personalized guidance on your specific case. You can also learn more about TDIU in our comprehensive guide, linked below.
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