Combined Rating Estimator

Use this simple tool to calculate your potential VA combined disability rating using 38 CFR §4.25 rules. If you are rated at 50% and you are expecting to receive a new 20% rating for a secondary or new directly service-connected condition, you have to consider VA Math. In the world of VA Math, 50% + 20% does not equal 70%, it actually equals 60%. Use this tool to see your potential rating change. Learn more about how VA Math works. This is a math tool, not a claim-preparation service.

How to use this page. Enter any ratings you already have, then add expected ratings for new conditions you're considering. The calculator applies VA Math (38 CFR §4.25) and, when you mark paired-limb ratings, the bilateral factor (38 CFR §4.26). For help preparing or filing a claim, work with an accredited VSO representative — free of charge.

Already Rated Conditions

Add each service-connected rating you've already been awarded.

No existing ratings added yet.

Expected New Ratings

Add a percentage for each new condition you're considering. Use DC Browse or a specific condition lookup to see what rating levels exist for a condition.

No expected ratings added yet.

General Claim Steps (Reference)

Typical steps veterans take when preparing a disability claim. These are informational — a VSO representative can walk through them with you in detail.

  1. File an Intent to File (ITF). Locks in your effective date for back pay. Call 1-800-827-1000 or file at VA.gov.
  2. Gather service treatment records and personnel records. STRs are usually already in the VA's system; DD-214 and performance evaluations can help establish in-service events. See the Records Request Guide for the right form and office for each record type.
  3. Gather current medical records. Both VA and private-provider records documenting the condition's current severity.
  4. Get a nexus opinion if your condition isn't obviously service-connected. The Nexus Letters Guide explains what the Board has found persuasive.
  5. Write a personal statement in your own words. A VSO representative can help you structure it. See the Functional Impact Library for context on how the Board has described functional limitations in past decisions.
  6. Collect buddy/lay statements. Statements from people who witnessed your symptoms or the in-service event.
  7. Attend C&P exams if scheduled. Be specific about bad days, not just average days.
  8. Work with an accredited VSO representative to file. Free help from a VA-recognized rep — find one here.
Optional, research how the Board has ruled on cases like yours. The BVA Decision Search indexes 829,000+ Board rulings (1995–present). Filter by your diagnostic code or condition to see what evidence won, what got denied, and what the Board sent back for more development.

For a full walkthrough, see our Claim Guide — or find a free VSO representative. The VA Supporting Forms guide covers every attachment form (21-4138, 21-4142, 21-10210, intent to file, priority processing, and more) in plain English.

Once your rating is final, check the Little-Known Benefits & Discounts guide — federal entitlements and commercial discounts most veterans never claim.