VA Disability Calculator (US)
Calculate your combined VA disability rating using official VA math. Estimate monthly compensation for service-connected disabilities with 2026 pay rates.
About This Calculator
The VA Disability Calculator (US) helps veterans and service members estimate their combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation. Using the official VA math formula and 2026 compensation rates (effective December 1, 2025), this tool provides accurate estimates for budgeting and benefits planning.
The VA uses the whole-person theory to combine multiple disability ratings. Rather than simply adding percentages, the VA starts with the highest rating and combines each subsequent rating against the remaining non-disabled percentage. For example, a 50% disability means the veteran is 50% disabled and 50% efficient. Adding a 30% disability combines 30% of the remaining 50% efficiency (15%), giving a cumulative value of 65%, which rounds to 70%.
Monthly compensation rates vary based on your combined rating, marital status, number of dependent children under 18, school children over 18 in a qualifying program, dependent parents, and whether your spouse receives Aid and Attendance benefits. The calculator shows both monthly and annual compensation estimates.
Note: This calculator provides estimates only. Final VA disability ratings and compensation are determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs after reviewing your medical evidence and claim documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does VA disability math work?
VA combines ratings using the whole-person theory. Start with the highest rating, then apply the remaining efficiency percentage to each subsequent rating. For example, a 50% and 30% rating gives a cumulative value of 65% which rounds to 70%, not 80%.
What is the VA disability compensation rate for 2026?
For 2026 (effective December 1, 2025), a single veteran with no dependents receives $180.42/month at 10%, $356.66 at 20%, $552.47 at 30%, $795.84 at 40%, $1,132.90 at 50%, $1,435.02 at 60%, $1,808.45 at 70%, $2,102.15 at 80%, $2,362.30 at 90%, and $3,938.58 at 100%.
How is the VA combined disability rating rounded?
The VA rounds combined ratings to the nearest 10%. Cumulative values ending in 1-4 round down, and values ending in 5-9 round up. For example, 55-64% rounds to 60%, 65-74% rounds to 70%, and so on.
Can I get 100% VA disability without being 100% disabled?
Yes, through Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU). If your service-connected conditions prevent you from maintaining substantially gainful employment, you may be paid at the 100% rate even if your combined rating is lower. You must apply for TDIU separately.
What conditions qualify for VA disability benefits?
Any injury, illness, or mental health condition incurred or aggravated during active military service can qualify. Common conditions include PTSD, hearing loss, tinnitus, back injuries, knee conditions, and respiratory issues. Each condition must be service-connected with medical evidence.
How does marital status affect VA disability pay?
Married veterans receive higher monthly compensation than single veterans at the same rating level. For example, at 100% rating, a single veteran receives $3,938.58/month while a married veteran receives $4,158.17/month. Additional dependents like children and parents also increase the monthly payment.
What is VA Aid and Attendance for disability compensation?
Aid and Attendance is an additional benefit for veterans whose spouse requires the regular aid of another person. It adds extra monthly amounts ranging from $61/month at 30% rating to $201.41/month at 100% rating, in addition to the base compensation rate.
How do I add dependents to my VA disability claim?
You can add dependents by filing VA Form 21-686c (Application to Add Dependents). For school children over 18, you need VA Form 21-674 (Request for Approval of School Attendance). Dependents must be properly documented to receive the additional monthly amounts.