That is why two 50% ratings combine to 75%, not 100%. The calculator shows the step-by-step math so you can see how each rating changes the remaining percentage before the final rounded VA rating.
Because your combined rating feeds TDIU screening, the TDIU guide explains how a lower combined rating can still be paid at the 100% rate when unemployability rules are met.
If a rating change is approved with an earlier effective date, the back pay guide explains why the combined rating and historical rates affect the retroactive payment.
Example
Worked example
Example: a veteran has one 50% condition and one 30% condition. The first rating removes 50% of the whole person, leaving 50% remaining. The second rating applies to the remaining 50%, so 30% x 50% = 15%.
The raw combined value is 50% + 15% = 65%. VA rounds 65% to the nearest 10%, so the final combined rating is 70%.
Common mistakes
What people get wrong
- Adding ratings directly. A 50% and 30% rating does not become 80%.
- Forgetting the final rounding step to the nearest 10%.
- Mixing up raw combined value with the final payable rating.
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 Combined Rating Calculator