Veterans can develop a variety of conditions after military service. These conditions can include debilitating pain and other physical issues, mental health problems like depression, anxiety and PTSD, and more.
When determining your compensation, the VA considers multiple disability ratings. Rather than simply adding them together, the VA sorts them in order of severity.
The Combined Rating Table
Many veterans have more than one service-connected disability. When this happens, the VA must calculate the cumulative impact of all the conditions to determine a total combined rating percentage. This is done through the use of a combined rating table.
The combined rating table is used to make the VA’s calculations simpler. It takes the ratings of all your conditions and puts them into a matrix to determine how they will be combined.
Veterans can find valuable information about their compensation by referring to the VA disability pay chart, which outlines the rates for various levels of disability.
For example, if a veteran is service-connected for PTSD and sleep apnea at 50% and 20%, respectively, they will have a total of 80% disabled. Using the chart, they would find their first rating on the left column and their second rating on the top row, then locate where these ratings intersect. This number will be their combined rating. The exact process is used for any other disabilities.
The Percentage Table
Once you’ve determined your disability rating, select if your claim is for monthly or annual compensation and then click “Calculate.” You’ll need to know your disability rate and how many dependents you have to determine your benefit amount.
If you have multiple disabilities, the VA will combine them by taking percentages of the ‘healthy’ rating. For example, if you have two ratings of 30%, the total will be found by multiplying those percentages and subtracting that number from 100 (your efficiency rate).
If your rating is above 100%, you’ll receive a higher monthly amount for this service-connected disability. This number will be based on the severity of your condition and how much it impacts your life, as determined by the VA. Each year, veteran disability rates are adjusted based on cost-of-living adjustments similar to Social Security benefits. This is why your disability rating can fluctuate from year to year.
The Number Of Dependents Table
If you have dependents, you can receive additional amounts in addition to your base rate based on the number of children and parents you have. You can use this calculator to understand your rates based on your family situation.
You can apply for disability benefits online, by mail, or in person at a VA office with the help of an accredited representative. You’ll need to gather documentation that supports your claim, including medical records and statements from people familiar with your disability.
The VA routinely examines its compensation rates to keep up with inflation and rising costs. The department applies a cost of living adjustment to its disability benefits yearly, like Social Security. This prevents inflation from limiting the value of your compensation.
The Aged Dependents Table
If you have children and your combined disability rating is over 30%, you will get additional funds based on the number of your dependents. This can add up to a lot of money over time.
You may also be eligible for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) payments, tax-free extra benefits paid to veterans and their spouses, surviving spouses, or dependents. These include SMC-L through SMC-O, which cover different disabling conditions and situations.
It’s essential to file a fully detailed claim backed by solid evidence when you apply for disability benefits. This includes medical records from VA and private doctors and hospitals and statements from friends and family members who can speak to the effects of your condition. Taking the time to gather documentation can help speed up your claim process. It can also help you ensure that you’re getting the maximum benefit. The average wait time for a VA decision is 106 days.
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