How do VA disability rating percentages work?

Q: How do VA disability rating percentages work?

VA disability is rated in 10-percent increments from 0% to 100% under the schedule in 38 CFR Part 4. Multiple ratings are combined using the 'VA math' formula in 38 CFR § 4.25 — they do not simply add. The bilateral factor in § 4.26 adds an extra 10% of the combined value when disabilities affect paired extremities. The final combined value is rounded to the nearest 10.

Last verified July 1, 2026 · Reviewed by Esteban Magallon, VA-Accredited Claims Agent

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Example: 50% + 30% = 65% combined, rounded to 70%.
Higher ratings are worth disproportionately more because each new disability is applied to the remaining 'efficiency' (100 − current combined).
SMC (Special Monthly Compensation) pays above the 100% rate for specific severe combinations.

This is general educational information about VA claims — not legal or medical advice. Individual outcomes depend on the record. Oakridge Claims is a private VA-Accredited Claims Agent practice and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

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How do VA disability rating percentages work?

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