🎖️ VA Disability Calculator
Combine multiple disability ratings using the VA efficiency method and project potential compensation.
Ratings are combined from highest to lowest. The VA rounds the final rating to the nearest 10%.
* Compensation figures reflect 2024 VA rates for veterans without dependents. Actual payments vary based on dependents, special monthly compensation, and cost-of-living adjustments.
How to Use This Calculator
Collect Your Ratings
Gather individual disability percentages from your VA award letter or eBenefits portal.
Enter Them in Order
Input ratings separated by commas. The tool sorts them from highest to lowest automatically.
Calculate Combined Rating
Click calculate to see the raw combined rating, VA-rounded rating, and remaining efficiency.
Plan Benefits & Appeals
Use the combined rating to project compensation, determine eligibility for programs, or prepare for a VA review.
Formula
Combined Rating = 100 − (Remaining Efficiency after sequential reductions)
Start with 100% efficiency.
For each rating in descending order, reduce the remaining efficiency by the rating percentage (e.g., 50% rating leaves 50% efficiency, next 30% applied to 50% remaining → 50 × 0.30 = 15).
Sum the reductions to obtain the combined raw rating. Round to the nearest 10% (5 and above rounds up).
The VA’s “whole person” concept ensures combined ratings never exceed 100%. Always reference official VA tables for final determinations and payment amounts.
Full Description
Veterans often receive multiple disability ratings for different service-connected conditions. The VA combines these ratings using an efficiency-based formula rather than simple addition to reflect the diminishing impact of each additional disability.
Understanding your combined rating is essential for estimating monthly compensation, qualifying for ancillary benefits (such as VA health care priority groups or education support), and planning appeals.
Key Considerations
- Secondary conditions and bilateral factors can increase overall ratings—consult a Veterans Service Officer (VSO).
- The VA rounds to the nearest 10% (minimum 0%, maximum 100%).
- Compensation varies by dependents, special monthly compensation (SMC), and annual COLA adjustments.
- Maintaining medical documentation is crucial when requesting increases or filing appeals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn’t the VA simply add ratings together?
The VA uses the “whole person” concept: each rating reduces your remaining efficiency, ensuring the total never exceeds 100%.
How are bilateral factors handled?
Disabilities affecting paired limbs (arms, legs) receive an additional 10% factor before combining. This calculator does not automatically apply bilateral adjustments.
Can this tool guarantee my VA rating?
No. It estimates the combined rating based on the percentages you provide. Official ratings depend on VA adjudication and evidence.
Where can I get personalized help?
Contact a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), accredited attorney, or the VA directly for guidance tailored to your case.