1. What is VA Disability Combined Rating?

The VA combines multiple disability ratings using a specific formula that accounts for the cumulative effect of multiple conditions while recognizing that a person cannot be more than 100% disabled.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the VA's combined rating formula:

Where:

• Each rating is divided by 100 and subtracted from 1
• These values are multiplied together (∏)
• The result is subtracted from 1 and converted back to percentage
• The bilateral factor (if applicable) is added
• The final result is rounded to the nearest 10%

3. Understanding the Bilateral Factor

Details: The bilateral factor adds 10% of the combined rating of bilateral conditions (affecting both arms, both legs, or paired skeletal muscles) to the total rating. This recognizes the additional impairment caused by bilateral conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all disability ratings as comma-separated percentages (e.g., "50,30,20"). Select "Yes" for bilateral factor if any conditions qualify. The calculator will round to the nearest 10% as per VA rules.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does the VA use this formula?
A: The formula accounts for the fact that disabilities don't simply add up - a person with two 50% disabilities isn't 100% disabled, but rather has overlapping impairments.

Q2: What conditions qualify for the bilateral factor?
A: Conditions affecting both upper extremities, both lower extremities, or paired skeletal muscles (e.g., both knees, both shoulders).

Q3: How does the VA round percentages?
A: The VA rounds to the nearest 10%. Ratings ending in 5-9 round up; ratings ending in 1-4 round down.

Q4: What's the maximum combined rating?
A: The maximum is 100%, though some special circumstances allow for additional compensation beyond this.

Q5: How often should I recalculate my rating?
A: Recalculate whenever you receive a new disability rating or when existing ratings change.