WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions of veterans and their dependents will get a fresh cost-of-living increase in their disability benefits beginning in December, according to legislation Congress is sending President Barack Obama.

The veterans' payments will increase by the same rate by which Social Security benefits will grow next year. The government will calculate next year's Social Security increase in October.

The boosts will include disability compensation, clothing allowances for some disabled veterans and the compensation some surviving spouses and children receive.

Unlike many other federal benefits, inflation adjustments in veterans' benefits don't happen automatically. Congress must pass a bill each year to make it happen.

The House approved the legislation requiring the increase Tuesday night by voice vote. The Senate passed the measure by voice vote last week.