See your monthly compensation for this rating on the pay calculator.
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How this calculator works
Deterministic math — no AI, no estimation model. Official formula below.
combined = first rating
FOR each remaining rating r:
combined = combined + (100 − combined) × (r ÷ 100)
Round combined to nearest 10 (38 CFR §4.25 Table I)
Bilateral factor (§4.26), if 2+ ratings affect paired limbs:
bilateral_sub = combine(paired ratings)
bilateral_sub += bilateral_sub × 10%
combined = combine(bilateral_sub, remaining ratings)
This is the official VA "whole person" combination method, not simple addition — see how combined ratings work for a worked example.
FAQ
Why doesn't the VA just add up my disability percentages?
VA uses a "whole person" theory: each new disability is rated against how much of the veteran's remaining, undisabled efficiency is left — not against the original 100%. Two 50% ratings don't combine to 100%; they combine to 75%, rounded to 80% per the official Combined Ratings Table.
What is the VA bilateral factor?
If a veteran has two or more disabilities affecting paired limbs — both arms, both legs, or paired skeletal muscle groups (not one arm and one leg) — those disabilities are first combined together, then that sub-total is increased by an extra 10% before being combined with the veteran's other ratings.
Does this calculator cover Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)?
No. SMC applies to specific catastrophic disabilities (loss of use of a limb, need for aid and attendance, etc.) and is not calculated here — consult an accredited VSO if you believe SMC may apply to your case.
Transparency & Methodology
Independent, source-checked figures
Every dollar figure traces to VA.gov's published compensation rate tables or 38 CFR §4.25. No AI-estimated numbers.
Not legal or financial advice
This tool estimates VA disability ratings and pay for planning purposes only. For your official rating or a claim decision, consult an accredited Veterans Service Organization or a VA-accredited attorney/claims agent.
Published by an identifiable operator
Run by Gesmine-Invest Limited (UK company 14120136) — see About for full sourcing methodology and data gaps we disclose rather than paper over.