Navigating the VA disability benefits system can be challenging, especially with complex calculations and various factors affecting compensation. Understanding how VA disability ratings and “VA math” work is essential for veterans seeking the benefits they deserve.
This article provides an in-depth look into how VA disability is calculated and how Ascend Disability can help veterans in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and across the country. To get help with your claim, contact our VA disability lawyers today for a free consultation.
Understanding VA Disability Ratings
VA disability is calculated based on your disability rating. Unlike Social Security disability, you can claim VA benefits if you are partially disabled.
VA disability ratings reflect how much a service-related condition limits daily activities and work. Veterans with more severe conditions receive higher ratings and more monthly benefits.
Ratings range from 0% to 100%, typically in 10% increments. A 0% disability rating means the condition is not considered limiting enough to qualify for monthly compensation, though the veteran may still receive healthcare benefits. The VA assigns a 100% rating for severely limiting conditions or total disability.
The evidence you submit during the application is key to securing an accurate disability rating. A skilled attorney can help prove the severity of your disability.
VA Disability Benefit Rates
VA disability benefits rates are adjusted each year. Here are the 2024 rates (effective December 1st, 2023):
- 10% rating: $171.23 per month
- 20% rating: $338.49 per month
- 30% rating: $524.31 per month
- 40% rating: $755.28 per month
- 50% rating: $1,075.16 per month
- 60% rating: $1,361.88 per month
- 70% rating: $1,716.28 per month
- 80% rating: $1,995.01 per month
- 90% rating: $2,241.91 per month
- 100% rating: $3,737.85 per month
The VA periodically makes VA compensation to cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) to make up for inflation. Under federal law, the percentage increase for cost-of-living adjustments to VA compensation and pension rates is the same as for Social Security benefits.
How Is VA Disability Calculated for Multiple Conditions?
When veterans have multiple disabilities, the VA doesn’t add the ratings for each condition. Instead, it uses a formula often called “VA math.”
For instance, if a veteran has a 50% rating for one condition and a 30% for another, the combined rating isn’t 80%. Instead, the VA uses a table to calculate the combined disability rating.
If you find the following examples confusing, you’re not alone. A VA disability attorney can help you navigate the claim process and get the fair compensation you deserve.
VA Math for 2 Disabilities
- Place the disabilities in order from highest to lowest percentage. 50% goes before 30%.
- Look for your highest rating in the left column of the “combined ratings table” and the next highest rating in the top row.
- Look across from the 50 in the left column and down from the 30 in the top row to find the number that appears where the left column and top row meet. Here, the combined value of the two ratings is 65.
- If you have 2 disabilities, round the combined value to the nearest 10% to find your combined disability rating. In this example, the final disability rating would be 70%.
VA Math for 3 Disabilities
The process is even more complex if you have three or more service-related disabilities.
Suppose a veteran has conditions with ratings of 50%, 30%, and 10%.
- Find the combined value of the first two disabilities using steps 1 through 3 in the example above.
- Take the combined value (65) without rounding and look for it in the left column of the combined ratings table. Look for 10 in the top row and find the number where the left column and top row meet. In this example, the number is 69.
- 69 would be rounded to the nearest 10% for a final rating of 70%.
Can You Receive Increased Payments?
Veterans may qualify for higher payments under certain circumstances. The VA may increase your benefits if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- You have a very severe disability or loss of limb.
- You have a spouse, child, or dependent parent and your combined disability rating is 30% or higher.
- You have a spouse with a serious disability.
Dependents
Veterans with a disability rating of 30% or higher can receive additional monthly compensation for dependents, including spouses, children, or parents.
Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU)
Veterans who cannot maintain gainful employment due to service-connected conditions may qualify for Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), effectively compensating them at the 100% rate.
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
In addition to regular disability benefits, the VA offers Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) to veterans with particularly severe disabilities. SMC often applies to veterans who have lost limbs, have blindness, or need regular assistance with daily activities. The amount varies depending on the nature and extent of the disability, providing financial support for veterans with increased care needs.
How a VA Disability Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the VA disability system can be daunting. Here’s how a VA disability lawyer at Ascend Disability can help you.
Filing Your Claim
The VA claim process is lengthy and complex. With our experience handling VA requirements and forms, we can ease the stress of the VA application and review processes.
Our experienced VA disability lawyers know how to gather, organize, and present evidence effectively, including medical records, service documents, and statements from doctors.
Maximizing Your VA Benefits
Attorneys can help you receive the maximum compensation you qualify for. As previously mentioned, a lawyer can help you gather and submit evidence showing the severity of your disability during the application and review process.
Disability lawyers also understand VA math, combined ratings, and eligibility for SMC or TDIU. They will ensure you aren’t missing out on any benefits.
Appealing a Denied Claim
If the VA denies a claim, an attorney can guide you through the appeals process. They can ensure all necessary information is provided and advocate for your rights.
Contact Ascend Disability for a Free Consultation
The VA disability system, with its disability ratings, calculations, and additional considerations for severe disabilities or dependents, can be challenging to navigate. Working with a skilled attorney can be invaluable.
An experienced VA disability lawyer can guide you through the claims process and gather evidence to prove the severity of your condition. If the VA denies your claim, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision. They will work tirelessly to help you secure the VA benefits you deserve.
Ascend Disability is dedicated to helping veterans in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and nationwide in securing their rightful benefits. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
