Understanding VA Ratings and Combined Rating Math
Ratings do not add together the way most people expect — here is the general concept.
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Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances. Always verify current requirements through official government resources before making decisions.
Who this applies to
- Veterans with one or more service-connected conditions
What it provides
- A combined evaluation used to determine compensation level
General eligibility concepts
- Applies once conditions are service connected
How it works
- Each condition receives a percentage under the rating schedule.
- Percentages are combined sequentially against remaining efficiency, then rounded.
- Bilateral conditions and special provisions can affect the result.
Step-by-step
- List your current ratings
- Review your decision letter's reasoning
- Identify conditions that may warrant review
Documents to gather
- VA decision letters
- Rating code sheets
Common mistakes
- Adding percentages directly
- Ignoring the effective date discussion in a decision letter
Important considerations
- Do not rely on unofficial calculators for decisions — confirm with VA.
Official sources
Estimated costs, timelines, and income figures are illustrative placeholders only and are not guaranteed.