Are these calculators accurate?

All formulas follow VA.gov rate tables and 38 CFR § 4.25. Results are estimates — always verify final amounts at VA.gov or with your VSO.

How does VA combined rating math work?

The VA uses a ‘whole person’ method — not simple addition. Each rating is applied to your remaining able-bodied percentage. A 50% and 30% rating combines to 65%, not 80%.

Back pay is the lump sum owed from your effective date (when you filed) to your decision date. The average is $8,000–$50,000+ depending on rating and wait time.

Can VA disability income count toward a mortgage?

Yes. Lenders can gross up non-taxable VA disability income by 25% for DTI purposes, which significantly increases your qualifying amount.

How often are these rates updated?

VA disability rates change every December 1 with the annual COLA adjustment. All calculators on this site are updated the same day.

What do people get wrong about TDIU Explained: 100% Pay at a Lower Rating? Assuming TDIU requires a schedular 100% rating.

Assuming TDIU requires a schedular 100% rating.

What do people get wrong about TDIU Explained: 100% Pay at a Lower Rating? Missing the two schedular paths: single 60% or combined 70% with one 40% condition.

Missing the two schedular paths: single 60% or combined 70% with one 40% condition.

What do people get wrong about TDIU Explained: 100% Pay at a Lower Rating? Confusing marginal employment with substantially gainful employment.

Confusing marginal employment with substantially gainful employment.

TDIU Explained: 100% Pay at a Lower Rating

The TDIU calculator screens the two schedular paths already used on the site: one disability rated 60% or higher, or two or more disabilities with one rated 40% or higher and a combined rating of 70% or higher.

Example

Worked example

Example: a veteran has a 70% combined rating with one condition rated 40%, is not working, and has no dependents. That meets the site's 70/40 schedular screen for TDIU review.

The 2026 veteran-alone 70% rate on the site is $1,808.45/month, while the 100% rate is $3,938.58/month. If TDIU is granted, the pay estimate moves to the 100% rate, a difference of $2,130.13/month.

Common mistakes

What people get wrong

Assuming TDIU requires a schedular 100% rating.
Missing the two schedular paths: single 60% or combined 70% with one 40% condition.
Confusing marginal employment with substantially gainful employment.

Run the numbers

Use the matching calculator to test your own dates, ratings, dependents, income, or benefit category with the same methodology described here.

Try the TDIU Calculator