Va Claim Insider Calculator

Hold Ctrl/Cmd to select multiple conditions

If you’re a veteran considering filing for additional VA disability compensation, understanding how your benefits might change is crucial. That’s exactly what our VA Claim Calculator helps you do—quickly and accurately estimate your combined disability rating, monthly payments, and potential increases based on new conditions, dependents, and marital status.

Whether you’re already receiving compensation or thinking about adding new service-connected conditions to your claim, this tool provides a clear picture of your possible benefits.

What Is the VA Claim Calculator?

The VA Claim Calculator is a free, easy-to-use online tool that estimates changes in your VA disability compensation if you:

  • Add new service-connected conditions
  • Claim new dependent children or a spouse
  • Receive a rating increase from the VA

Using 2023 VA compensation rates and real VA math formulas, it gives you a projected combined rating, estimated monthly and annual payments, and a recommendation on whether it’s worth filing a claim.

How to Use the VA Claim Calculator (Step-by-Step)

  1. Enter Your Current Disability Rating (%)
    Input your official VA rating, typically found in your VA award letter or eBenefits account.
  2. Number of Dependents
    Add how many children or other dependents you currently support.
  3. Spouse Is a Dependent
    Select “Yes” if your spouse is recognized by the VA as a dependent.
  4. Select New Conditions to Claim
    Choose one or more conditions from the list (e.g., PTSD, sleep apnea, hearing loss). Hold Ctrl (Windows) or Cmd (Mac) to select multiple.
  5. Estimated Rating for New Conditions (%)
    Estimate the percentage rating you believe applies to your new conditions. If unsure, consult your doctor or service officer.
  6. Click “Calculate”
    Instantly get an estimate of your:
    • New combined rating
    • Monthly and annual compensation
    • Potential benefit increase
    • Recommendation on whether to proceed with a new claim

Practical Example: A Case Study

Veteran A:

  • Current Rating: 40%
  • Dependents: 2 children
  • Spouse: Yes
  • New Conditions: Tinnitus (10%) and Back Pain (20%)
  • Estimated Rating for New Conditions: 30%

Estimated Results:

  • Combined Rating: 58% → Rounded to 60%
  • Current Monthly Pay (40%): $731.86 + dependents
  • New Monthly Pay (60%): $1319.65 + dependents
  • Potential Monthly Increase: ~$587
  • Recommendation: Filing is highly recommended due to significant increase.

Why Use This Tool?

  • ✅ VA Math is complicated – Our calculator simplifies it.
  • ✅ Dependent rates vary – We include spousal and child benefits.
  • ✅ Quick decisions – Helps you determine if it’s worth filing.
  • ✅ Free and anonymous – No sign-up or personal data required.
  • ✅ Updated for 2023 rates – Reflects the latest compensation structure.

Who Should Use the VA Claim Calculator?

  • Veterans already receiving VA compensation
  • Veterans who believe their current rating is too low
  • Those adding new conditions to their disability claim
  • Spouses or dependents helping veterans with claims
  • Veterans working with VSO (Veterans Service Officers)

Additional Tips for Filing VA Disability Claims

  • Gather medical evidence for new conditions.
  • Consult a VSO for help with paperwork and strategy.
  • Don’t underestimate conditions like migraines or PTSD.
  • Secondary conditions (e.g., depression from chronic pain) can also be claimed.
  • File within a year of discharge for a smoother process.
  • Appeal decisions if you feel your rating is unfair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a combined VA disability rating?
It’s not a simple addition of percentages. The VA uses a formula that calculates the remaining “unaffected” portion of your body after each rating.

2. How accurate is the VA Claim Calculator?
While not official, it uses real VA math formulas and current compensation tables for close estimations.

3. Can I claim multiple conditions at once?
Yes, and the calculator allows for multiple selections to estimate your total impact.

4. Does the calculator account for dependents?
Yes, including dependent children and a spouse.

5. What if my new condition isn’t listed?
Use the “Estimated Rating for New Conditions” input to estimate the total percent for unlisted conditions.

6. Does this tool file a claim for me?
No. It only estimates your potential benefits. You must file through the VA or a VSO.

7. What’s the max VA disability rating?
100% is the maximum schedular rating. You may qualify for special monthly compensation (SMC) beyond that, but this tool calculates up to 100%.

8. How do I know the percentage for a new condition?
You can estimate based on prior ratings or consult medical professionals and VA diagnostic codes.

9. What’s the average approval time for claims?
New claims take about 100–120 days on average, depending on backlog and evidence.

10. Does the calculator include SMC or housebound pay?
No, it only reflects basic monthly compensation plus dependent allowances.

11. What happens if my combined rating rounds up?
VA rounds ratings to the nearest 10% for compensation. For example, 68% rounds to 70%.

12. Will the VA use this tool’s results in their decision?
No, it’s for informational use only. The VA performs its own calculations and reviews.

13. Can I use this tool if I’m already at 100%?
Yes, but adding new conditions likely won’t increase basic compensation unless SMC applies.

14. What if I’m rated at 0% for a condition?
You can still file for an increase if the condition worsens.

15. Does claiming more conditions hurt my current rating?
Not usually, but the VA may reevaluate your entire file. Be prepared with evidence.

16. How often should I review my VA rating?
Every year or anytime your health changes significantly.

17. Can I claim mental and physical conditions together?
Yes, and the calculator accounts for multiple types of conditions.

18. What if I have multiple conditions with the same symptoms?
You can’t be rated twice for the same symptom (pyramiding), but you may be rated under the most appropriate diagnostic code.

19. Do I need a medical diagnosis to file a claim?
Yes, typically a current diagnosis is required, along with a nexus to military service.

20. Is the tool mobile-friendly?
Yes, it works on desktop and mobile for on-the-go calculations.

Final Thoughts

The VA Claim Calculator is a powerful tool to help veterans make informed decisions about their disability claims. By simulating how new conditions and dependents impact your benefits, it removes the guesswork and gives you clarity—whether you’re just starting the process or seeking an increase.

Try it now and take the first step toward the benefits you deserve.