A 60% VA disability rating represents a significant level of impairment due to service-connected conditions that impact a Veteran’s ability to function effectively in everyday life. Veterans who suffer from physical injuries, mental health conditions, or a combination of both as a result of their military service may qualify for benefits under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) system. These benefits are intended to provide financial assistance and support for Veterans whose conditions limit their ability to work and perform routine activities.
Understanding the VA Disability Rating System
The VA assigns disability ratings in 10% increments from 0% to 100%, reflecting the severity of a Veteran’s service-connected condition. A 60% rating suggests a substantial disability that affects the Veteran’s quality of life but is less severe than ratings of 70% or higher. The VA assesses the severity of each condition individually and then combines these ratings using a specialized calculation method known as “VA math” to determine the overall disability percentage.
How the VA Combines Ratings
Veterans often have multiple service-connected disabilities, each with its own rating. To determine the total disability percentage, the VA uses the “Whole Person Theory”, ensuring the combined rating does not exceed 100%, as a person cannot be more than fully disabled. This approach is commonly referred to as “VA math.”
For instance, if a Veteran has a 40% rating for one condition and 20% for another, their combined rating is not 60%, but approximately 52%. The VA rounds the total to the nearest 10%, so a combined rating of 52% would be rounded to 50%, while a total of 55% or higher rounds up to 60%.
Monthly Compensation for a 60% Disability Rating
Veterans with a 60% VA disability rating receive monthly, tax-free compensation. The amount varies based on factors such as marital status and the number of dependents. As of 2024, a Veteran with a 60% disability rating and no dependents receives approximately $1,361.88 per month. In 2025, a Veteran with a 60% disability rating and no dependents receives approximately $1,395.93. This amount increases with dependents; for instance, a Veteran with a spouse and one child can receive a higher monthly payment.
Click on the link below to see pay for each level of disability.
VA Disability Compensation Charts
Benefits Associated with a 60% VA Disability Rating
Beyond monthly compensation, a 60% VA disability rating opens the door to additional benefits, which can greatly enhance a Veteran’s quality of life:
- VA Healthcare Benefits: Veterans with a 60% rating are eligible for free healthcare from the VA which includes emergency care, preventative care, mental health serviced, primary and specialty care and more. This is available to Veterans with a 50% VA disability or higher. This includes access to VA hospitals, clinics, and prescription medications. Learn more
- Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E): Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Services: The VA provides vocational rehabilitation and employment services to help Veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain suitable employment. These services may include job training, career counseling, educational assistance, and support with job placement. Any honorably discharged Veteran with a 10% or higher disability rating qualifies for this benefit. Learn more
- Educational Benefits: Veterans may be eligible for educational and training assistance through programs like the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program, which cover tuition, fees, books, and provide housing allowances. Learn more about eligibility
- Home Loan Benefits: The VA’s Home Loan Guaranty Program offers benefits such as reduced funding fees and favorable loan terms, assisting Veterans in purchasing, building, or adapting a home. Often called the VA Home Loan. Learn more about eligibility
- Travel Allowance for VA Appointments: Veterans with a 60% rating may qualify for travel reimbursement when attending VA medical appointments. Travel Allowance for VA Appointments
6. Special Monthly Compensation (SMC): Veterans with particularly severe service-connected disabilities may be eligible for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) in addition to their regular disability compensation. SMC provides additional financial assistance to Veterans who require aid and attendance or have certain disabilities, such as loss of use of limbs or organs. Learn more
7. Adaptive Housing Grants: Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for grants to adapt their homes to accommodate their disabilities. These grants, such as the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) or Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grants, can help cover the costs of modifying or purchasing an accessible home. Learn more
8. Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) is possible only if a Veteran cannot maintain gainful employment due to their disabilities AND their 60% rating is from only one service-connected disability. TDIU allows Veterans to receive compensation at the 100% rate without having a 100% disability rating. Learn more
Additional Benefits to Consider
Veterans with a 60% rating may also be eligible for:
- Property Tax Exemptions: Some states offer partial property tax exemptions for Veterans with significant service-connected disabilities. Check out our Blog, Veteran Property Tax Exemptions by State.
- Direct Hire Authority: This provides Veterans preference in federal job hiring. A Veteran at 30% or higher qualifies for this benefit. Learn more
- Access to Commissary and Exchanges: Veterans with any disability rating (0-100%) can shop at military commissaries and exchanges. Learn more
- Veteran Benefits Banking Program: This program provides access to financial services tailored for Veterans. Learn more
Increasing Your VA Disability Rating
Veterans with a 60% disability rating may consider pursuing a higher rating if their condition worsens or if new service-connected disabilities develop.
At a 70% VA disability rating Veterans may become eligible for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) if a Veteran cannot maintain gainful employment due to their disabilities. TDIU allows Veterans to receive compensation at the 100% rate without having a 100% disability rating.
Read more on 70% VA Disability Benefits.
How Chad Barr Law Can Help
Navigating the complexities of the VA disability rating system can be challenging. From understanding the regulations to gathering the necessary documentation and advocating for your case, it’s a demanding process. At Chad Barr Law, we specialize in assisting Veterans with their disability claims and appeals. Our experienced team helps Veterans understand their rights, develop strong claims, and ensure they receive the appropriate compensation for their service-connected conditions.
If you need assistance with your current claim, are seeking to increase your rating, or need help with an appeal, contact Chad Barr Law today for a free case evaluation. We’ll walk you through your options and offer guidance tailored to your specific circumstances to help you secure the benefits you deserve.
