Updated: May 2026
2.8% COLA rates included
Formula: Official VA Whole Person Method (38 CFR 4.25)

Editorial Policy

Last Updated: May 2026

VA Combined Rating Calculator provides high-utility benefits tools and educational materials to veterans and their families. This Editorial Policy defines our standards for accuracy, integrity, and credibility.

1. Strict Reliance on Primary Sources

Our calculations, pay rates, and state benefit summaries are synthesized directly from primary official resources:

  • Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations (38 CFR).
  • Official publications and tables distributed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov).
  • Congressional adjustments relating to Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA).

2. Rigorous Math & Formula Audits

Every calculation pathway (including complex bilateral factor ordering and rounding margins) is audited programmatically against real-world test cases. When new COLA figures are released, we verify our rate structures before updating the interface, protecting the reliability of calculations.

3. Veteran-Centric Clarity

Federal guidelines are notoriously complex. Our editorial priority is to explain regulations in plain language, ensuring veterans can understand how their conditions are evaluated without needing a legal background.

4. Independent & Ad-Free Standards

Our utility is entirely independent. We do not accept sponsorships, steering commissions, or legal referral kickbacks from claim filing firms. This ensures that the guides and ratings calculators remain objective and unbiased.