Understanding VA Disability Ratings
How ratings work, combined math, and maximizing your claim
VA Combined Ratings Math
VA doesn't simply add ratings together. Instead, each rating is applied to your remaining "healthy" percentage.
Example: 50% + 30% ratings
- 1. Start at 100% healthy
- 2. Apply 50%: 100 - 50 = 50% healthy
- 3. Apply 30% to remaining: 50 × 0.30 = 15
- 4. Total: 50 + 15 = 65% combined (not 80%)
You might expect
80%
VA math gives
70%
Monthly payment
$1,395.81
2026 VA Disability Rates (Veteran Alone)
10%
$175.51
20%
$347.21
30%
$537.82
40%
$774.73
50%
$1,102.68
60%
$1,395.81
70%
$1,759.91
80%
$2,044.88
90%
$2,297.53
100%
$3,825.12
Dependent Additions (30%+ Required)
At 30% or higher combined rating, you receive additional monthly compensation for dependents.
| Rating | +Spouse | +Child | +Parent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30% | $62 | $31 | $48 |
| 50% | $104 | $52 | $79 |
| 70% | $145 | $72 | $111 |
| 100% | $207 | $103 | $158 |
Maximizing Your VA Claim
Claim ALL conditions, even if you think they're minor - they add up
Secondary conditions (caused by service-connected) are claimable
Keep detailed medical records and buddy statements
Get Nexus letters connecting conditions to service
Consider working with an accredited VSO (free!)
Important Notes
- • Ratings are rounded to nearest 10% for payment purposes
- • TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability) pays at 100% rate
- • SMC (Special Monthly Compensation) provides additional benefits for severe conditions
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Not affiliated with the VA. Consult VA.gov for official information.