60% VA disability pay rate (2026)
Source: VA.gov compensation rates, effective 2025-12-01, retrieved 2026-06-11.
A 60% rating pays $1,435.02 per month for a veteran with no dependents in 2026. With dependents, the amount rises as shown below.
| Dependent status | Monthly amount |
|---|---|
| Veteran alone (no dependents) | $1,435.02 |
| With spouse only | $1,566.02 |
| With spouse and 1 parent | $1,671.02 |
| With spouse and 2 parents | $1,776.02 |
| With 1 parent | $1,540.02 |
| With 2 parents | $1,645.02 |
| With 1 child only | $1,523.02 |
| With 1 child and spouse | $1,663.02 |
| With 1 child, spouse, and 1 parent | $1,768.02 |
| With 1 child, spouse, and 2 parents | $1,873.02 |
| With 1 child and 1 parent | $1,628.02 |
| With 1 child and 2 parents | $1,733.02 |
60% and the IVDS maximum under the episodes formula
60% marks the upper limit of the intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS) rating under the incapacitating episodes formula in the VA's rating schedule. To reach 60% under that formula, a veteran must have had incapacitating episodes totaling at least 6 weeks during the past 12 months. For the specific diagnostic code criteria and how episodes are documented, see the back pain VA rating guide.
The 60% band covers raw combined values from 55 to 64. A combined value of 55 rounds up to 60%; a combined value of 64 also rounds to 60%. Practically, this means a veteran with a combined value of 61 or 63 receives the same final rating as one at 60. For a veteran currently at 50% looking to reach the next band, the combined value must clear 65 before conversion yields 70%. Monthly pay at 60% alone is $1,435.02, versus $1,808.45 at 70% — a gap worth understanding before the next exam or review. If a recent rating decision placed you at 60% when your evidence supports higher, see what to do after a VA decision you disagree with.
Check the math behind your rating
Your combined rating is calculated under 38 CFR §4.25 and §4.26, and the final number is rounded to the nearest 10. Whether you sit at 60% or one band higher can come down to a few points. Run your conditions through the calculator to see your combined value before rounding, and read how the bilateral factor works if you have conditions in both arms or both legs.
If VA owes you money back to an earlier effective date, estimate your back pay or read how back pay is calculated. If your decision letter's rating is lower than the math supports, see what to do after a VA decision you disagree with.
Figures are transcribed from VA.gov and validated automatically; see our methodology. This page is informational only and is not a benefits decision. Disclaimer.