1. What is Combined VA Disability Rating?

The Combined VA Disability Rating is calculated using a specific formula that accounts for multiple disabilities. The VA doesn't simply add percentages together - instead, they use a method that accounts for how disabilities interact with each other.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the VA's combined rating formula:

Where:

• Multiply together the remaining ability after each disability (1 - rating/100)
• Subtract the result from 100 to get the total disability percentage
• Round to the nearest 10% for the final VA rating

Example: For ratings of 40% and 30%:
(1 - 0.40) × (1 - 0.30) = 0.6 × 0.7 = 0.42
100 - (0.42 × 100) = 58% → rounded to 60%

3. Importance of Combined Rating

Details: The combined rating determines your total disability percentage which affects your monthly compensation, healthcare benefits, and other VA benefits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your individual disability ratings separated by commas. The calculator will show both the precise calculation and the VA's rounded percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why doesn't the VA just add the percentages?
A: The VA uses a "whole person" concept where each additional disability affects the remaining ability, not the original 100%.

Q2: How does the VA round percentages?
A: The VA rounds to the nearest 10%. If the result ends with 5-9, it rounds up; 1-4 rounds down.

Q3: What's the maximum combined rating?
A: The maximum is 100%, but you can have individual ratings that theoretically add to more than 100% when combined.

Q4: Are some conditions treated differently?
A: Yes, bilateral conditions and certain special cases have additional calculations.

Q5: How often should I recalculate my rating?
A: Whenever your individual ratings change due to new claims or reevaluations.