1. What is VA Combined Disability Rating?

The VA Combined Disability Rating is calculated using a specific formula that accounts for the interaction between multiple disabilities. It's not a simple sum of individual ratings but rather a combined value that reflects the overall impact of all disabilities.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the VA's combined rating formula:

Where:

• \( \text{rating}_i \) — Individual disability rating percentage
• \( n \) — Number of disability ratings
• \( \prod \) — Product of all (100 - rating) terms

Explanation: The formula calculates the combined effect of multiple disabilities by determining the remaining ability after each disability is accounted for.

3. Importance of Combined Rating

Details: The combined rating determines the total disability compensation a veteran receives from the VA. It affects monthly payment amounts and eligibility for additional benefits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter each disability rating as a percentage (0-100). Add as many ratings as needed. The calculator will compute the combined value according to VA rules.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why isn't the combined rating just the sum of individual ratings?
A: The VA uses a "whole person" concept where subsequent disabilities are calculated against remaining ability, not added simply.

Q2: How does bilateral factor affect the calculation?
A: Bilateral conditions (affecting both arms/legs) receive an extra 10% of their combined value before being added to other disabilities.

Q3: What's the maximum combined rating?
A: The maximum VA disability rating is 100%, though combined ratings may round up to 100% before actually reaching it.

Q4: How are decimal results handled?
A: The VA rounds to the nearest 10% (e.g., 44.4% becomes 40%, 45.5% becomes 50%).

Q5: Where can I find the official VA combined ratings table?
A: The VA publishes official combined ratings tables in 38 CFR §4.25.