Question 1

What is VA Math?

Accepted Answer

VA Math is the method the VA uses to combine multiple disability ratings into a single combined rating. Instead of simply adding percentages, the VA uses a 'remaining whole person' method where each disability is applied to the remaining healthy percentage. For example, a 50% and 30% disability combine to 65%, which rounds to 70% — not 80%.

Question 2

How is VA disability compensation calculated?

Accepted Answer

VA disability compensation is based on your combined disability rating (10-100%) and your dependency status (veteran alone, with spouse, with children, etc.). The VA publishes annual compensation rate tables. Higher ratings and more dependents result in higher monthly payments. Compensation is tax-free.

Question 3

What is VA compensation for disability?

Accepted Answer

VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment to veterans with service-connected disabilities. The amount depends on your combined disability rating (10-100%) and your number of dependents. For 2026, a veteran with a 100% rating and no dependents receives approximately $3,737.85 per month.

Question 4

How much is VA disability compensation in 2026?

Accepted Answer

2026 VA disability compensation rates range from $171.23/month for a 10% rating to $3,737.85/month for a 100% rating (veteran alone). Rates increase with dependents — a veteran with a 100% rating and a spouse receives $3,995.22/month. Use our VA disability calculator above to estimate your exact compensation.

Question 5

What is the bilateral factor in VA disability?

Accepted Answer

The bilateral factor applies when you have disabilities affecting both sides of the body (e.g., both legs, both arms, both eyes). These bilateral disabilities are combined first, then a 10% bonus factor is added before combining with any unilateral disabilities. This results in a slightly higher combined rating.

VA Disability Calculator 2026