Calculator Inputs
Formula Used
Combined rating formula: Combined = A + (100 - A) × B ÷ 100.
The calculator sorts disability ratings from highest to lowest. It applies each rating to the remaining efficient portion of the veteran. The final raw value is rounded to the nearest ten percent.
Bilateral factor: Paired arm or leg ratings are combined first. Then ten percent of that bilateral value is added before the result joins the main rating calculation.
Retroactive estimate: Net Retro = ((New Monthly Payment - Previous Monthly Payment - Monthly Offset) × Months) - Attorney Fee.
How To Use This Calculator
- Enter each service-connected condition separately.
- Select the rating percentage for each condition.
- Mark left arm, right arm, left leg, or right leg when bilateral rules may apply.
- Add spouse, children, parent, and aid attendance details.
- Add previous rating and retroactive months for a finance estimate.
- Press the calculate button to show the result above the form.
- Use the CSV or PDF buttons to save the report.
Example Data Table
| Condition | Rating | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PTSD | 50% | General | Main rating applied first |
| Right Knee | 20% | Right leg | May support leg bilateral factor |
| Left Knee | 10% | Left leg | Paired with right leg |
| Tinnitus | 10% | General | Combined after higher ratings |
Understanding This Disability Calculator
This calculator estimates a combined VA disability rating and a possible monthly payment. It follows the whole person idea. A veteran starts as 100 percent efficient. Each disability lowers the remaining efficiency. That makes the final rating different from simple addition.
Why VA Math Matters
Many veterans enter several service connected ratings. Adding them directly can pass 100 percent. VA math prevents that result. The highest rating is applied first. The next rating is applied to the remaining healthy portion. The process repeats until every condition is included. The unrounded value is then rounded to the nearest ten percent.
Bilateral Factor Support
The calculator also includes arm and leg bilateral options. Bilateral ratings are grouped before the main combination. Their combined value receives a ten percent increase. That adjusted value is then combined with other ratings. This helps users see how paired extremity conditions can affect the final estimate.
Dependents And Payment Planning
Payment can change when a veteran has a spouse, children, dependent parents, or a spouse needing aid and attendance. This page uses rate tables in the code. It also shows separate dependency adjustments. Users should still compare the result with official award letters, because individual facts can change payment decisions.
Useful Finance View
The tool is built for planning. It gives a monthly estimate, an annual estimate, and a rating path. The report helps users compare scenarios before filing, appealing, or reviewing an award. CSV and PDF buttons make the result easier to save with claim notes.
Important Disclaimer
This calculator is educational. It is not legal advice. It is not a promise of benefits. VA decisions depend on evidence, effective dates, claim status, offsets, and special monthly compensation. Always verify figures with official VA notices or a qualified representative before making financial choices.
Best Data To Enter
Use only ratings already granted or realistically expected from medical evidence. Enter each percentage separately. Do not enter the final combined rating as another disability. Mark paired arms or paired legs only when the disabilities affect both sides. Keep notes about each condition, because clear records make later review simpler and reduce mistakes. Save one report for every claim scenario you compare before filing today.
FAQs
Is this calculator legal advice?
No. It is an educational estimate. VA benefits depend on evidence, claim history, effective dates, offsets, and official decisions.
Why does the calculator not simply add ratings?
VA math uses the remaining efficiency method. Each new rating reduces only the healthy portion left after earlier ratings are applied.
What is the bilateral factor?
It is an added percentage for qualifying paired arm or leg disabilities. This calculator estimates it when both sides are entered.
Do dependents change every rating payment?
No. Ratings of 10% and 20% do not receive higher payments for dependents under the standard compensation table.
What does the TDIU option do?
It uses the 100% payment rate when the combined rating is at least 60%. It is only a planning estimate.
Can I use school children in the calculation?
Yes. Enter the number of qualifying children ages 18 to 23 in school. The calculator adds the school child amount.
Why include retroactive months?
Retroactive months help estimate possible back pay. The result depends on effective dates, prior payments, offsets, and fees.
Can I download my result?
Yes. After calculation, use the CSV or PDF button to save the estimate for your records.