Got a 50% for PTSD and 30% for your back? You might think that adds up to 80% — but the VA sees it differently.
Let’s unpack how combined ratings really work.
🧠 The Math (Quick Version)
VA math starts with your highest condition and calculates every next rating as a percentage of what’s left.
Example:
- Start at 100%
- PTSD: 50% → now you’re 50% “whole”
- Back: 30% of 50% = 15%
- Total = 65% → rounds to 70%
📉 Why It Can Feel Discouraging
This system:
- Makes it harder to reach 100%
- Creates the “90% trap” many vets get stuck in
- Leads to surprise ratings that seem “lower than expected”
But once you understand it, you can ensure your medical documentation accurately reflects your clinical history.
🧩 Documentation Tip
If your clinical findings are not fully reflected in your combined rating:
- Consider clinical links for secondary conditions based on medical judgment
- Ensure your medical evaluations document functional limitations in detail
- Obtain independent medical evaluations to capture the full scope of your symptoms