Free calculator
VA Disability Calculator
Calculate a combined VA disability rating and estimate 2026 standard compensation with supported dependents.
Individual ratings
2 ratings entered
Enter numeric ratings only. A side/category is needed solely to apply the bilateral rule; do not enter diagnoses or health details.
Dependents for 2026 pay
How VA math works
VA does not simply add individual ratings. It starts with the highest rating, then applies each lower rating to the remaining whole-person efficiency. For example, 70% leaves 30% efficiency; a second 50% rating removes half of that remainder, producing 85%. VA rounds a final 85% combined value to 90%.
The engine follows the Combined Ratings Table by rounding each intermediate combination to a whole number. It converts the final value to the nearest multiple of 10 only after all ratings are combined, with final values ending in 5 rounded upward.
Bilateral factor
For compensable ratings on both upper extremities, both lower extremities, or paired skeletal muscles, the engine combines all qualifying ratings, adds 10% of that value, and treats the adjusted result as one rating before other combinations. It evaluates eligible exclusions to honor 38 CFR § 4.26(d), which requires the result most favorable to the veteran. The model supports numeric ratings and left/right category only; unusual anatomy or rating-schedule questions require an official decision.
Compensation, dependents, and limitations
The 2026 estimate uses VA rates effective December 1, 2025. Dependent rates begin at 30%. One child is represented in the applicable basic table; each remaining child uses VA's age-specific additional amount. Rate and payment are separate: VA establishes ratings and benefit eligibility, while this independent calculator provides an educational estimate.
Special Monthly Compensation, Individual Unemployability eligibility, back pay, effective dates, VA waiver, CRDP, and CRSC are excluded. Military retirees should compare the separate Military Retirement Calculator. Saving a projected scenario never adds it to current household resources or the VA Affordability Calculator.
Authoritative sources
Rates: 2026, effective 2025-12-01; rules and rates last verified 2026-08-26.
Frequently asked questions
How does VA calculate combined disability ratings?
VA applies each rating to the efficiency remaining after the more severe ratings, rounds each table combination to a whole number, then rounds the final combined value to the nearest 10%.
What does 70% plus 50% equal under VA math?
A 70% rating leaves 30% efficiency. Applying 50% to that remainder produces an 85% combined value, which rounds upward to a final 90% rating.
What is the bilateral factor?
When compensable disabilities affect paired arms, paired legs, or paired skeletal muscles, VA combines the qualifying ratings and adds 10% of that combined value before other combinations.
Do dependents increase VA disability compensation?
For standard compensation, VA publishes dependent rates beginning at a 30% combined rating. The 10% and 20% rates do not change for dependents.
Is VA disability compensation taxable?
VA disability benefits are generally excluded from federal taxable income. This calculator classifies the standard payment as non-taxable and does not provide state-tax advice.
Does this include TDIU or SMC?
No. TDIU can pay certain veterans at the 100% rate without changing the schedular combined rating, and SMC uses additional eligibility rules and rate tables. Neither is determined here.