VA Disability Benefits
VA Disability
Combined Rating Calculator
The VA uses a “whole person” method, not simple addition, to calculate combined disability ratings. Enter your individual ratings to see your estimated combined rating and monthly compensation.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only. Rates shown are 2026 figures (effective December 1, 2025) and are updated annually. Always verify your actual rating and payment with the VA at va.gov.
Enter Your Disability Ratings
Check Bilat for disabilities affecting paired extremities (both arms, both legs, etc.). The 10% bilateral factor applies only when two or more are marked.
Dependents (30%+ rating)
Enter at least one disability rating and click Calculate My Rating to see your estimated combined rating and monthly compensation.
2026 Monthly Compensation Rates, Veteran Alone
Rates are for 2026 (effective December 1, 2025). The VA adjusts rates annually based on Social Security COLA. Verify current rates at va.gov/disability/compensation-rates.
Important VA Disability Concepts
TDIU, Total Disability
If your combined rating is below 100% but you cannot work due to service-connected disabilities, you may qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU), which pays at the 100% rate. A single disability must be 60%+, or multiple totaling 70%+ with one at 40%+.
SMC, Special Monthly Compensation
Veterans with severe service-connected disabilities, such as loss of use of a limb, blindness, deafness, or need for aid and attendance, may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) on top of regular disability pay, at rates above the standard 100%.
Bilateral Factor
If you have disabilities affecting both sides of your body (both arms, both legs, or paired organs), the VA first combines those paired ratings, adds 10% of that value, then combines the result with your other disabilities. Mark each paired disability with the Bilat checkbox and the calculator applies the factor correctly when two or more are marked.
Effective Date Matters
Your effective date, the date VA received your claim, determines back pay if your rating is approved. File as early as possible, even with incomplete evidence. Supplemental claims and appeals can increase your rating retroactively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't my rating add up to the sum of my individual ratings?
The VA uses the "whole person" method, not simple addition. Each rating is applied to what's left of the whole person after previous ratings. For example: 50% + 30% does not equal 80%, it equals 50% + 15% (30% of the remaining 50%) = 65%, which rounds to 70%.
Is VA disability compensation taxable?
No. VA disability compensation is completely tax-free at both the federal and state level. It does not count as earned income and does not need to be reported on your tax return.
Can I receive VA disability and military retirement pay at the same time?
Yes, through CRDP (Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay) for retirees with a combined rating of 50% or higher, or CRSC (Combat-Related Special Compensation) for combat-related disabilities. Legislation now allows many veterans to receive both.
What is the minimum rating that qualifies for monthly compensation?
A combined rating of at least 10% is required for monthly disability compensation. A 0% rating means the VA acknowledges a service-connected condition but pays no compensation, though it still entitles you to VA health care.
When do dependent benefits start?
Dependent compensation (spouse, children) begins at a combined rating of 30% or higher. You must notify the VA and formally add dependents to your award record to receive the additional amounts.
A 10%+ VA disability rating waives the VA funding fee on your home loan, saving you thousands. Calculate your buying power.
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