VA math explained
Imagine you start as 100% "efficient". Each disability rating takes away a percentage of whatever efficiency is left, starting with the highest rating. That is why two 50% ratings combine to 75%, not 100%: the first leaves you 50% efficient, and the second takes half of that remaining 50.
| Ratings | Combined value | Combined rating |
|---|
| 50% + 30% | 65 | 70% |
| 50% + 50% | 75 | 80% |
| 70% + 30% + 10% | 81 | 80% |
| 60% + 40% + 20% | 81 | 80% |
| 10% + 10% + 10% | 27 | 30% |
2026 VA disability rates (veteran only)
| Rating | Monthly | Rating | Monthly |
|---|
| 10% | $180.42 | 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 20% | $356.66 | 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 30% | $552.47 | 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 40% | $795.84 | 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 | 100% | $3,938.58 |
Special monthly compensation (SMC), TDIU and other benefits are not included. Buying a home? A disability rating usually exempts you from the VA funding fee; see the VA loan calculator.
Last reviewed October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How does VA combine disability ratings?
The VA does not add ratings together. It uses "whole person" math: start at 100% efficiency, apply the highest rating first, then apply each next rating to what is left. For 50% and 30%: 50% leaves 50% efficient; 30% of that 50 is 15, so the combined value is 65%, which rounds to 70%.
How does the VA round combined ratings?
The exact combined value is rounded to the nearest 10. Values ending in 5 or more round up (65 becomes 70) and values ending in 1 to 4 round down (64 becomes 60). Along the way, each step uses the whole-number values from the VA's Combined Ratings Table, and this calculator does the same.
What is the bilateral factor?
When you have disabilities affecting both arms, both legs, or paired muscles, the VA combines those ratings first and adds 10% of that combined value before combining it with your other ratings. Tick "Bilateral" for those conditions.
How much is VA disability pay in 2026?
From December 1, 2025 (the 2.8% COLA), a veteran with no dependents receives $180.42 a month at 10%, $356.66 at 20%, $552.47 at 30%, $1,132.90 at 50%, $1,808.45 at 70% and $3,938.58 at 100%. Ratings of 30% and above pay more with a spouse, children or dependent parents.
Is this an official VA decision?
No. It estimates the combined rating and pay using the VA's published method and rates. Your actual rating depends on the VA's review of your evidence. A Veterans Service Organization (VSO) can help with your claim for free.