VA Combined Rating Calculator

Why Isn't It Simple Addition?

The VA uses a “whole person” concept. If you're 50% disabled, you have 50% of your “efficiency” remaining. The next disability takes a percentage of what's left, not of the original 100%.

Example: 50% + 30%

• Start with 100% efficiency
• 50% disability leaves 50% remaining
• 30% of 50% = 15% more disability
• Total: 50% + 15% = 65% (not 80%)

What Is the Bilateral Factor?

If you have conditions affecting both sides of paired body parts (both knees, both shoulders, etc.), the VA adds a 10% bonus to your bilateral combined rating before combining with other conditions. This recognizes that bilateral conditions cause more functional impairment than single-sided ones.

Important Notes

• Mental health conditions (PTSD, depression, anxiety) are typically rated together, not separately
• Tinnitus is capped at 10% regardless of severity
• The final rating is rounded to the nearest 10%
• This calculator provides estimates — your actual rating may differ