The estimator does 3 things, and it helps to know what each one is.

First, it looks up each condition in the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4, often called the VASRD). Every rated condition has a diagnostic code with fixed percentage levels, such as 10%, 30%, 50% and 70% for most mental health conditions. The estimator shows the levels that fit the symptoms you describe. That is why the result is a range. Two levels often fit, and 38 CFR 4.7 says VA assigns the higher one only when your overall picture "more nearly approximates" that level. The rating schedule guide explains how to read the criteria for your condition.

Second, it combines the percentages. VA does not add ratings together. Under 38 CFR 4.25, the conditions are lined up from most to least severe. Each rating is applied to the "efficiency" left after the one before it. A 60% rating leaves you 40% efficient; a 20% rating then takes 20% of that 40, for a combined 68%. Rounding happens once, at the end, to the nearest 10. Values ending in 5 round up, so 65% becomes 70%. Veterans call this "VA math," and the VA math combined rating calculator walks through more examples.

Third, it applies the bilateral factor where it fits. Under 38 CFR 4.26, when you have compensable ratings for both arms, both legs or paired skeletal muscles, those ratings are combined first and 10% of that value is added, not combined, before the rest of the math. A left knee and a right ankle count as a pair.

The dollar figures use VA's compensation rates effective December 1, 2025. From 30% up, VA adds compensation for a spouse, children or dependent parents. A veteran alone is paid $552.47 a month at 30% and $3,938.58 at 100%. The full table is on the 2026 VA disability rates page. Source: https://www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/veteran-rates/, effective December 1, 2025.

The math is exact. The inputs are not. Here is what stands between the estimate and a real rating.

The rating comes from the evidence, not from a questionnaire. VA rates a condition on the findings in your medical records and your VA claim exam (also called a C&P exam). At that exam the provider works through a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ), a standard form that captures the exact measurements the rating criteria use: range of motion in degrees, frequency of attacks, the symptoms listed for each mental health level. The rater matches those findings to the schedule. If the DBQ records fewer or milder findings than you entered here, the rating will be lower.

The examiner does not decide. VA states the exam provider "can't answer questions about the claims process, tell you the exam results, or make decisions about your claim." A rater at a VA regional office makes the decision. Understanding VA disability ratings covers who decides what.

Service connection comes first. The estimator assumes each condition will be service connected. It cannot check whether your records show an in-service event, a current diagnosis and a link between them. Conditions caused by a service-connected condition may qualify as secondary; see common secondary conditions.

It does not cover every path to higher pay. Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) under 38 CFR 4.16 can pay at the 100% rate when you cannot hold substantially gainful work and have 1 rating at 60% or more, or a combined 70% with 1 rating at 40% or more. Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) pays above the 100% rate for specific losses. The estimator flags a nearby TDIU threshold but decides neither.

Watch out: Nobody outside VA can promise you a rating, and no one may charge a fee to help with an initial claim. This tool does not review your claim. A VA-accredited representative can look at your evidence for free.

If the estimate is higher than your current rating, read your decision letter next. It lists the criteria VA used. The guide to whether your rating is too low explains a claim for increase on VA Form 21-526EZ and the decision-review lanes in the appeals guide. Filing for the first time? Start with filing your first claim.

Your combined rating unlocks more than federal compensation. Most states tie property-tax exemptions, free or reduced vehicle registration, hunting and fishing licenses, tuition waivers and state park passes to a specific rating threshold, often 50%, 70% or 100%. Once you know your likely range, check what your state offers at that level.