VA FAQ
Frequently asked questions / VA
How are VA disability ratings calculated?
VA combines disability ratings using a remaining-efficiency formula, not regular addition. A 50% rating combined with a 30% rating equals 65% before rounding, so the combined rating rounds to 70%, not 80%.
How combined ratings work
VA starts with the highest rating. It then applies the next rating to the portion of the person VA considers not disabled, and continues through the other ratings. The order and the exact ratings matter.
After combining the ratings, VA rounds the final combined value to the nearest 10%. A value ending in 5 rounds up. Because of this method, several ratings can look like they should add to more than the final combined rating.
The bilateral factor
When qualifying conditions affect paired arms, legs, or paired skeletal muscles, VA may apply a bilateral factor. VA combines the qualifying right- and left-side ratings, adds 10% of that combined value, and then continues the calculation. It is not an extra 10 percentage points.
The final rating can affect monthly compensation and access to other benefits. Check the decision letter for each individual rating and the combined rating. A VA-accredited representative can help review the math.
Related guides
This page gives general information, not legal or medical advice. VA rules and procedures can change. Confirm current requirements with VA or an accredited representative.