This estimate uses 2026 VA compensation rates for a veteran with the selected dependents. Additional amounts may apply for children in school (18–24), dependent parents, or a spouse who needs Aid & Attendance. Always confirm your exact payment on VA.gov.
How "VA Math" Works
Many veterans are surprised that a 50% rating and a 30% rating do not equal 80%. The VA treats your body as 100% efficient and each disability as reducing what remains. A 50% rating leaves 50% efficiency; a 30% rating then takes 30% of that remaining 50%, and so on. The result is rounded to the nearest 10%.
When disabilities affect paired extremities (both arms, both legs), the VA adds a bilateral factor of 10% to those combined ratings before combining them with the rest. Our calculator applies this automatically when you mark a condition as bilateral.
Why the Combined Rating Matters
Your combined rating drives your monthly payment and can unlock Total and Permanent benefits at 100%. If your combined rating is close to the next tier, a single successful rating increase can move you up a bracket. If service-connected conditions keep you from working, you may qualify for TDIU and be paid at the 100% rate without a 100% schedular rating.
Think your combined rating is too low? You generally have one year to appeal a VA decision. See your appeal options or get a free case review.