VA Disability Calculator — combined rating (38 CFR 4.25)

This estimates the combined rating only. It follows 38 CFR §4.25 but does not include the bilateral factor (§4.26, for paired limbs) or convert the rating to a dollar amount, and it is not an official VA determination. Use it to understand the math, not as a benefits decision.

How it works

The VA uses the combined ratings or "VA math" method: disabilities are combined by how much working ability is left, not added together. Order your ratings from highest to lowest, then:

• Start with the highest rating. If it is 50%, you are considered 50% efficient for the rest.
• Each next rating applies to the efficiency that remains. A further 30% takes 30% of the remaining 50%, i.e. 15 points, giving 65%.
• Continue for each rating, then round the final value to the nearest 10 (a value ending in 5 rounds up).

That is why ratings never simply add: two 50% ratings combine to 75% (rounded), not 100%, and you can never exceed 100%.

Worked example

Ratings of 50%, 30%, and 20%:

• Start at 50 (50% disabled, 50% efficient)
• Add 30% of the remaining 50%: 50 + 15 = 65
• Add 20% of the remaining 35%: 65 + 7 = 72
• Round 72 to the nearest 10 → 70% combined rating

Frequently asked questions

Why don't my VA ratings just add up?

Because a rating measures lost ability, and you only have 100% to lose. Each new disability can only reduce the ability you still have, so ratings are combined multiplicatively and can never exceed 100%. This is set out in 38 CFR §4.25.

How does the rounding work?

The combined value is rounded to the nearest number divisible by 10, and a value ending in 5 rounds **up**. So 72 becomes 70, 65 becomes 70, and 44 becomes 40.

What is the bilateral factor?

When you have disabilities of paired body parts (both arms, both legs, or paired skeletal muscles), the VA first combines those and adds a 10% "bilateral factor" before combining with the rest (§4.26). This calculator does **not** apply it — if bilateral disabilities are involved, your official rating may be higher.

Does a higher combined rating mean more money?

The combined rating sets your monthly compensation, but the dollar amount also depends on your dependents and the VA's current rate tables, which change. This calculator gives the rating, not the payment.

Does the order I enter ratings matter?

No. The method sorts them highest-first internally, and the combined result is the same whatever order you type them in.

Why is my calculated rating different from my VA letter?

Common reasons: the bilateral factor, a rating the letter includes that you did not enter, or special monthly compensation and other adjustments the VA applies on top of the combined rating. Always defer to your official VA decision.