1. What is the VA Disability Combined Rating?

The VA uses a specific formula to combine multiple disability ratings into a single percentage. This combined rating determines the overall compensation a veteran receives. The calculation is not a simple sum but rather accounts for the cumulative effect of multiple disabilities.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the VA's combined rating formula:

Where:

• \( \text{rating}_i \) — Individual disability rating percentage
• The calculation starts with the highest rating and works downward
• Each subsequent rating is applied to the remaining "able" percentage

Explanation: The VA calculates combined ratings by determining how each disability affects the remaining non-disabled portion of the veteran.

3. Importance of Combined Rating

Details: The combined rating determines monthly compensation amounts, healthcare benefits, and other VA benefits. Accurate calculation is essential for proper benefit determination.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter each disability rating percentage on a separate line (e.g., 30, 10, 20). The calculator will process them in the correct order (highest to lowest) as the VA does.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why doesn't the VA simply add the ratings?
A: The VA system accounts for the fact that disabilities affect the remaining able portion of a veteran, not just simple addition.

Q2: How does the VA round combined ratings?
A: Combined ratings are rounded to the nearest 10% (e.g., 84.5% becomes 85%, 86.4% becomes 86%).

Q3: What's the maximum combined rating?
A: The maximum is 100%, though special rules apply for certain severe disabilities.

Q4: Do bilateral factors affect the calculation?
A: Yes, bilateral conditions receive special consideration in the calculation order.

Q5: How often should I recalculate my combined rating?
A: Whenever you receive new disability ratings or have ratings changed by the VA.