VA Disability Compensation Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

What is TDIU?

Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) pays at the 100% rate when service-connected disabilities prevent substantially gainful work - typically one rating at 60% or higher, or a combined 70%+ with one condition at 40%+.

What is SMC?

Special Monthly Compensation adds money above the 100% rate for severe service-connected injuries including loss of limb, blindness, the need for aid and attendance, or housebound status.

What did the PACT Act change?

The PACT Act (2022) expanded presumptive service connection for burn-pit exposure, Gulf War illness, and Agent Orange exposure, allowing many previously denied or unreported conditions to qualify.

Does VA disability compensation affect military retirement pay?

For retirees eligible for both VA compensation and retired pay (CRDP or CRSC), the rules vary by the type and percentage of disability. Consult DFAS and the VA together for your specific situation.

How do dependents affect compensation?

Adding a spouse, children, or a dependent parent increases monthly compensation at ratings of 30% and above. Update your VA dependent record whenever your family situation changes.

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Estimates for informational purposes only.

Important Disclaimer: Estimates for informational purposes only.

This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are based on assumptions and may not reflect actual outcomes. Consult qualified professionals in relevant fields before making important decisions based on these results.

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How It Works

The VA does not add disability ratings together. Each rating acts on the remaining healthy capacity after applying all previous ratings, so two 50% conditions never reach 100% combined. The combined rating formula is: Combined = (1 minus the product of all (1 minus rating/100) terms) times 100, rounded to the nearest 10.

Enter up to six individual ratings and your dependent status, and this tool applies the official VA combined-ratings math, rounds to the nearest 10, and looks up the 2026 monthly and annual tax-free compensation. All VA disability compensation is tax-free under federal law.

Eligibility

VA disability compensation is available to veterans with service-connected disabilities. Key eligibility factors include:

You must have served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training.

A disability must be present and linked to your military service (service connection).

Your discharge must not be dishonorable.

Ratings of 10-90% pay compensation based on the combined rating table. At 100%, the individual unemployability (TDIU) threshold, or any SMC level, rates are substantially higher.

Dependents (spouse, children) increase monthly compensation at ratings of 30% and above.

Tips

Always apply with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) - they are free, accredited, and significantly increase claim success rates compared to filing alone.

File for every condition you believe is connected to your service, not just the most obvious ones. Secondary conditions (caused by a service-connected condition) also qualify.

If you were exposed to burn pits, Gulf War chemicals, or Agent Orange, ask about PACT Act presumptive conditions - many previously denied claims can be reopened.

TDIU pays at the 100% rate when service-connected disabilities prevent gainful employment, even if the combined rating is below 100%.

If denied, appeal within one year of the decision to preserve your original effective date for back pay. Use Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board appeal depending on your situation.

FAQ