Move the two sliders. The number below is your VA retroactive backpay at 2026 rates. The rows below show exactly what each path takes from it.
ESTIMATED RETROACTIVE BACKPAY
$20,279
18 MONTHS @ +30% · SPOUSE + 1 CHILD
LAW FIRM20% FEE
−$4,056YOU KEEP $16,223
38 CFR § 14.636 - max 20% of past-due benefits
CONSULTANT5× MONTHLY DELTA
−$5,633YOU KEEP $14,646
Industry-median 5× monthly increase per congressional testimony
VSO (FREE)$0 FEE
$0YOU KEEP $20,279
LIMITED TOOLING, LONG QUEUES
38 CFR § 14.628 - VSO representation is free by law
CLAIMRECONFLAT $29.99/MO
−$360YOU KEEP $19,919
$29.99/mo × 12 months
LAW FIRM TAKES 11× MORE THAN US.
MONTHLY AT NEW RATING
$2,074.45/ MO
Δ $1,126.61 / mo vs current rating
ClaimRecon does not represent you, does not appear at hearings, and does not guarantee a rating outcome. Retro estimates use 38 CFR § 4.25 combined-rating math and 2026 VA rates; actual awards depend on effective-date determinations we cannot predict. Cross-period retros (crossing Dec 1) require period-split math not modeled here. VSOs are free by law (38 CFR § 14.628). SMC and TDIU not modeled. Informational only - not legal or medical advice.