Yes this same bill increases both
VA comp and pen pay and social security
pay at 5.8% for next year. I looked it
up and although it is not exactly
clear from how they have drafted this
release below.



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 16, 2008



VETERANS’ COMPENSATION COST-OF-LIVING-INCREASE ANNOUNCED


5.8 percent increase effective December 1st


WASHINGTON, D.C. – Effective December 1, 2008, veterans’ disability compensation, among other benefits, will be increased by 5.8 percent, to respond to the increasingly high cost-of-living in the United States . This increase was secured by an Act of Congress, authored by U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee. The exact percentage increase of 5.8 percent was determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, corresponding with the increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

The Social Security Administration reports that this year’s CPI increase is the largest since 1982. Last year’s increase was 2.3 percent.

___________________________________________
END of Akaka Release

REPLY:

I went into the Thomas Register to look
up the phrasing on this language. The
Senate has reported that the Bill has
passed and 5.8% is how both the VA
and Social Security are listed in the
final versions.

I have used this number myself to report
out in my own recertifications to
the assistance agencies I am tied to.

Sue, I hope it is 5.8, it sure would help out alot of disabled vet's. I have heard 5.8 and also 3.9. I wonder how much congress will grt?