How to Calculate Your VA Disability Rating Using VA Math

For Veterans seeking compensation for service-connected conditions, it’s essential to understand how the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) calculates disability ratings. The VA employs a unique method — often referred to as "VA Math” — that combines multiple disability ratings into one combined rating to determine the benefits the Veteran will receive. 

What Is a VA Disability Rating? 

A VA Disability rating represents the extent to which Veterans’ service-connected conditions impair their ability to earn a living. These ratings, expressed as percentages in 10% increments from 0% to 100%, determine the amount of tax-free compensation a Veteran receives. A 0% rating acknowledges a service-connected condition without current compensable symptoms, allowing for future reassessment if the condition worsens. 

The "Whole Person" Concept 

The VA uses the "whole person" theory to combine multiple disability ratings. This approach considers a Veteran as 100% healthy before accounting for any disabilities. When calculating combined ratings, each subsequent disability percentage applies to the remaining "healthy" portion. 

How to Calculate Combined Disability Ratings 

1. List Disabilities from Highest to Lowest Percentage: 
   • Arrange your disabilities in descending order based on their individual ratings. 
2. Use the Combined Ratings Table: 
   • Locate the highest rating on the left column of this table.  
   • Find the next highest rating along the top row. 
   • Identify the intersection point that provides the combined value. 
   • Repeat this process for additional disabilities, using the new combined value each time. 
3. Round to the Nearest 10%: 
   • After combining all ratings, round the final percentage to the nearest 10%. For example, 68% rounds up to 70%, while 72% rounds down to 70%. 

Sample Calculation: 

Consider a Veteran with three disabilities rated at 50%, 30%, and 10%: 

First Combination: 

• 50% (primary disability) combined with 30%. 
• Using the combined ratings table, 50% and 30% intersect at 65%. 

Second Combination: 

• 65% combined with 10%. 
• Referencing the table again, 65% and 10% intersect at 69%. 

Final Rating: 

• 69% rounds up to a 70% combined disability rating. 

This method explains why combining a 90% and a 10% rating doesn't result in 100%. For instance, combining 90% with 10% yields 91%, which rounds down to 90%. Achieving a 100% rating requires a combination that reaches at least 95%, as the VA rounds to the nearest 10%. 

Watch Our Video for More Insight 

To better understand VA disability ratings and see how they work in real life, watch the following video for a helpful explanation:

Factors Influencing Compensation 

Beyond combined ratings, other factors can affect compensation amounts: 

• Dependents: Veterans with a disability rating of 30% or higher receive additional compensation for dependents, including spouses, children, and dependent parents. 
• Special Monthly Compensation (SMC): For severe disabilities such as loss of use of limbs, blindness, or deafness, Veterans may qualify for SMC, which provides higher compensation rates. 

Staying Updated 

VA compensation rates are subject to annual adjustments based on the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA). For the most current rates and combined ratings table, refer to the VA's official resources: 

• Combined Ratings Table: VA Combined Ratings Table 
• Current Compensation Rates: VA Disability Compensation Rates 

You can also use other online tools to help estimate your combined disability rating. 

Armed Forces Mutual Can Help 

Navigating VA Disability ratings can be complex, but our professional assistance can ensure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to. AAFMAA Members receive personalized support, including help with understanding and interpreting VA Disability ratings, exploring life insurance options, and guiding Veterans and their families through the various benefits available to you. For assistance, call our Member Benefits team at 833-484-1625 or email memberbenefits@aafmaa.com.