How is my VA disability rating calculated?

The VA uses the 'whole person theory' to calculate combined disability ratings. This is not a simple addition of percentages. Each disability affects your remaining capacity. For example, if you have a 30% and a 20% disability, your combined rating would be 44%, which the VA rounds to 40%. Our calculator uses the official VA formula to determine your combined rating.

What is Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)?

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is an additional tax-free benefit for veterans with specific severe disabilities or combinations of disabilities. SMC rates range from SMC-K to SMC-S, with higher levels providing greater compensation. These benefits are paid in addition to your regular disability compensation and are designed to help with costs associated with more severe service-connected conditions.

How do dependents affect my VA disability payment?

Veterans with a disability rating of 30% or higher receive additional compensation for dependents, including spouses, children under 18, children between 18-23 in school, and dependent parents. The exact amount varies based on your disability rating and the number of dependents. Our calculator factors in these additional payments based on the information you provide about your dependents.

Are the VA disability compensation rates updated annually?

Yes, VA disability compensation rates typically increase annually through a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). These adjustments are based on the Consumer Price Index and help ensure that your benefits keep pace with inflation. Our calculator uses the official 2025 VA compensation rates, which include the most recent COLA increase.

Why might my actual VA payment differ from the calculator estimate?

While our calculator provides an accurate estimate based on the information you enter, your actual payment may differ due to factors such as retroactive adjustments, deductions for military retirement pay, VA pension offsets, garnishments, or other special circumstances. Always verify your specific payment details with the VA.

How do I apply for an increase in my VA disability rating?

To request an increase in your VA disability rating, you need to file a claim for increased disability compensation (VA Form 21-526EZ). You'll need to provide medical evidence showing that your service-connected condition has worsened. This can include recent medical records, statements from healthcare providers, and personal statements about how your condition affects your daily life and ability to work.

VA Disability Calculator

2025 Official Rates

Calculate your combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation using the official 2025 VA rates and the "whole person theory" formula.

Important: This calculator provides estimates based on 2025 VA rates. Always verify official amounts with the VA for your specific situation. Results are for informational purposes only.

Service-Connected Disabilities

Enter each VA-rated disability with its assigned percentage

Important: Only include service-connected disabilities that have been officially rated by the VA. Percentages should match your VA rating decision letter exactly.

Disability 1

Disability Percentage

VA-assigned percentage (0-100%)

VA ratings are typically in increments of 10%

Affected Area

Select the primary affected body area

Description (Optional)

Brief description to identify this condition

Dependents

Add family members to calculate additional compensation

Note: Dependent benefits are only available for veterans with a 30% or higher disability rating. Include all eligible dependents to get an accurate compensation estimate.

Spouse Information

Married veterans receive additional compensation

Marital Status

Current marital status for VA compensation purposes

Children Information

Additional compensation for dependent children

Children Under 18

Number of unmarried children under 18

Includes biological, adopted, and stepchildren

Children 18-23 in School

Children 18-23 attending school full-time

Must be enrolled in an approved educational program

Child Dependency Requirements:

• Must be unmarried and dependent on you for support
• Children 18-23 must be in school full-time
• Disabled children over 18 may qualify regardless of school status

Dependent Parents

Parents who depend on you financially

Number of Dependent Parents

Parents who receive more than half their support from you

Important:

Parent dependency must be verified annually with the VA. Income limits and support requirements change yearly, so check current VA guidelines.

Dependent benefits available for 30%+ disability ratings

Advanced Options

Special Monthly Compensation and scenario naming