VA Math: Why 70 + 30 Does Not Equal 100

The VA uses a 'combined ratings' formula, not straight addition. It works like this: 1. Start with 100% efficiency. 2. Sort your ratings highest to lowest. 3. Apply each rating to what's LEFT of your efficiency. Example, 70% + 30%: - Start at 100 efficient. - Apply 70%: 70 goes to disability, 30 remains efficient. - Apply 30% to that 30: another 9 to disability, 21 remains efficient. - Total disability = 100 - 21 = 79. - Round to nearest 10 = 80% combined rating. Not 100%. This is why adding conditions matters, every new claim compounds against a smaller and smaller 'remaining efficiency.' Two 50% ratings combine to 75, not 100. Three 30% ratings combine to 66, not 90. Use our calculator's 'VA Math' mode to see it for yourself.