VA Disability Combined Rating Calculator

Combined Rating Formula:

\[ \text{Combined Rating} = 100\% - \prod_{i=1}^{n} (100\% - \text{Rating}_i) \]

Exact Combined Rating:

VA Rounded Rating:

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1. What is VA Disability Combined Rating?

The VA uses a specific method to combine multiple disability ratings into a single percentage. This combined rating determines the overall compensation a veteran receives. The calculation follows a "whole person" concept where each additional disability rating is applied to the remaining non-disabled portion.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the VA's combined rating formula:

\[ \text{Combined Rating} = 100\% - \prod_{i=1}^{n} (100\% - \text{Rating}_i) \]

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 multiplying their remaining efficiencies (100% - rating), then subtracting from 100%.

3. Importance of Combined Rating

Details: The combined rating determines the monthly compensation amount and eligibility for additional benefits. The VA rounds the final percentage to the nearest 10% for compensation purposes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

Enter each disability rating as a percentage (0-100)
Add as many ratings as needed using the "Add Another Rating" button
The calculator shows both exact and VA-rounded values
Ratings should be entered in order from highest to lowest for manual calculation verification

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why doesn't 50% + 30% equal 80%?
A: VA math considers each subsequent rating as applying to the remaining non-disabled portion. A 50% and 30% rating combine to 65% (50% of whole person + 30% of remaining 50% = 15%, totaling 65%).

Q2: How does bilateral factor work?
A: Bilateral conditions (affecting both arms/legs) receive a 10% bonus calculated after combining the bilateral ratings.

Q3: What's the maximum combined rating?
A: The maximum is 100%, though veterans can have ratings that mathematically exceed 100% before rounding.

Q4: How does the VA round ratings?
A: The VA rounds to the nearest 10%. Ratings ending in 5-9 round up, 0-4 round down (e.g., 84% → 80%, 85% → 90%).

Q5: Are there special rules for certain conditions?
A: Yes, some conditions like hearing loss or mental health have specific calculation rules. Always consult VA guidelines for exact determinations.