Starting January 2025, the VA rolled out the biggest overhaul to combined disability ratings in over 30 years. The old “VA math” everyone hated is still here, but four major rules changed how conditions are added together.
Quick History of How VA Ratings Worked Before
Since 1945, the VA used a “whole person” theory: if you’re 50% disabled, you only have 50% of a healthy person left. Ratings were combined (not added) using this formula. The bilateral factor and extra-scheduler rules were added later, but 2025 is the first true rewrite.
Why These 2025 Changes Actually Matter to You
A small rating shift can mean hundreds of dollars extra every month—tax-free. Some veterans are seeing automatic increases; others could drop a tier if they don’t act before the deadline.
How the New Combined Rating Math Works (With Examples)
The core formula stays, but now:
- Bilateral factor increased from 10% to 12% of the combined value
- New “functional loss multiplier” for certain musculoskeletal claims
- Painful motion now starts at minimum 15% instead of 10%
Old vs New Combined Rating Example (50% + 30% + 20%)
| Conditions | Old Rule (2024) | New Rule (2025) | Monthly Increase (2025 rates) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50% + 30% + 20% | 70% | 73% | +$184/month |
| Add bilateral 10% | 76% → 80% | 78% → 80% | Same final, faster path |
Old vs. New VA Rating Table Side-by-Side
Most Common Combined Rating Jumps
| Old Combined | New Combined (2025 rules) | 2025 Payment (veteran only) |
|---|---|---|
| 70% | 70–74% | $1,716.28 |
| 80% | 75–79% | $1,995.01 |
| 90% | 85–89% | $2,241.91 |
| 94% → 100% | Now rounds to 100% faster | $3,831.30 |
Key Dates & Deadlines Every Veteran Must Know
- January 10, 2025 – New rules officially apply
- March 31, 2026 – Last day to request re-evaluation under old rules (grandfather clause)
- Automatic re-calculation letters start mailing April 2025
Expert Tips to Protect or Increase Your Rating
- File for increase BEFORE March 31, 2026 if you’re close to the next tier
- Always mention painful motion—new 15% minimum helps
- Use the bilateral factor aggressively if both knees/shoulders are rated
- Get a nexus letter that specifically mentions “functional loss”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will my current rating go down?
A: Almost never. The VA promised no reductions unless fraud is proven.
Q: Do I have to do anything?
A: Only if you want the higher amount sooner—otherwise they’ll recalculate automatically.
Q: Is the 100% rounding easier now?
A: Yes! 93.5% now rounds up instead of 94.5%.
Final Thoughts – Don’t Leave Money on the Table
The 2025 VA combined rating changes are some of the most veteran-friendly updates in decades. Thousands will see an automatic bump, but the smartest veterans are already filing to lock in the maximum before the grandfather window closes. Check your latest rating decision letter, run the numbers with the new table, and if you’re within 5 points of the next tier—act fast. Your future self (and wallet) will thank you.