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Disclaimer

Last updated: 2026

EarnedGuide is an independent educational and guidance tool. This page explains, in plain English, what EarnedGuide is, what it is not, and how to use it responsibly.

Important: this is guidance, not official VA advice

EarnedGuide is an independent tool and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or a substitute for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Benefit amounts, eligibility rules, and processes change frequently. Always confirm your specific situation on VA.gov or with a free accredited VSO before making decisions or filing claims.

Not affiliated with the government

EarnedGuide is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Department of Defense, or any other government agency. Any references to VA programs, forms, or benefits are for educational purposes only. Official information always comes from the government directly.

Not legal, financial, medical, or claims advice

Nothing on EarnedGuide is legal, financial, medical, tax, or claims advice. We do not file claims on your behalf, and using EarnedGuide does not create an attorney-client relationship, an accredited-agent relationship, or any other professional or fiduciary relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a qualified professional or a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO).

Information may change or contain errors

Benefit rates, eligibility rules, forms, deadlines, and procedures change frequently, and the information on EarnedGuide may be incomplete, out of date, or contain errors. We work to keep content accurate, but we make no guarantee that any information is current or correct at the time you read it. You are responsible for confirming details before you rely on them.

Calculator estimates are illustrative only

Any amounts produced by our calculators — including disability compensation, combined ratings, and dependent adjustments — are illustrative estimates, not official determinations. Your actual benefit amount is decided solely by the VA based on your individual record and current rules. Do not make financial decisions based on an estimate alone.

Always verify before you act

Before applying for a benefit, filing a claim, or making any decision based on EarnedGuide, verify everything with an official source. Confirm your eligibility and the current rules on VA.gov or with a free accredited VSO. When in doubt, the official source always wins.

External links

EarnedGuide may link to third-party websites, including government sites, for your convenience. We do not control and are not responsible for the content, accuracy, or availability of those external sites.

Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255. Free, confidential support 24/7 — you don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits.