Add each VA-rated disability separately (e.g. 50% tinnitus, 30% sleep apnea, 20% knee). Labels are optional, they just help you remember which is which.
Why isn't my combined rating just the sum of my individual ratings?
Because the VA assumes you only have 100% of a body to work with. Each new rating applies to what's left, not the whole. If you're already 50% disabled, a 30% rating only applies to the remaining 50% efficiency, so it adds 15% (not 30%) to your combined. The math is in 38 CFR § 4.25.
What's the bilateral factor?
If you have disabilities on both sides of the body (both knees, both arms, both feet, paired skeletal muscles), the VA combines those bilateral pairs first, then adds an extra 10% to that combined value before adding it to your other ratings. This calculator does not yet include the bilateral factor — it's on our roadmap. For bilateral cases, the actual VA combined will be slightly higher than what we show.
Is this calculator official?
No — VetNav is an independent platform built by veterans. We implement the exact formula from 38 CFR § 4.25 and our math matches the VA's published Combined Ratings Table. For your official rating decision, work with a VA-accredited rep or VSO (DAV, VFW, AMVETS, etc.). Use this calculator to estimate, plan, and verify what the VA tells you.
What about Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)?
SMC is paid in addition to your regular combined rating, for things like loss of use of a limb, being housebound, or aid & attendance. It's not part of the combined ratings formula and isn't reflected in this calculator. If you think you qualify, talk to a VSO.
Can my rating be reduced later?
In some cases, yes, especially if your condition improves. But ratings that have been continuous for 20+ years are protected and cannot be reduced (except for fraud). 100% Permanent & Total (P&T) ratings are also generally protected.
Where do these dollar amounts come from?
Our monthly compensation figures are 2026 projections based on the published 2024 VA rate schedule plus the announced 2.5% COLA increases for 2025 and 2026. The exact amount you receive depends on your specific dependent situation. See the official VA compensation rates page for the authoritative current numbers.
VetNav is the AI guide built by veterans for veterans. We map your full benefit picture, file your claims, surface what you're missing, and project your lifetime value, not just for VA disability, but for the GI Bill, VA loans, healthcare, state benefits, and more.
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