If you have more than one rated condition, the VA does not simply add the percentages. It combines them — and the result is almost always lower than the sum.
The whole-person concept
The VA starts with a person who is 100% able. A 30% rating leaves 70% remaining. A second 20% rating applies to that remaining 70%, which adds 14% — for a combined 44%, rounded to 40%.
Order matters
Ratings are combined from highest to lowest. That is why adding a small rating to an already-high combined rating often moves the final number very little.
The bilateral factor
When you have conditions affecting both arms or both legs, the VA combines those paired ratings first, then adds 10% of that result before combining with everything else. It is a small boost that is easy to overlook.
Estimate before you assume
Run your numbers through our rating calculator to see how a combined rating actually shakes out before you make decisions based on a guess.
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Educational information only — not legal advice or VA representation.