High blood pressure (hypertension) is rated under Diagnostic Code 7101, based on your blood-pressure readings, specifically the diastolic (bottom) and systolic (top) numbers.
How the VA rates hypertension
- 10%: diastolic predominantly 100 or more; or systolic predominantly 160 or more; or a history of diastolic predominantly 100 or more that requires continuous medication to control.
- 20%: diastolic predominantly 110 or more; or systolic predominantly 200 or more.
- 40%: diastolic predominantly 120 or more.
- 60%: diastolic predominantly 130 or more.
“Predominantly” means most of your readings. Watch the medication rule at the 10% level. Even if your pressure is now controlled by medication, you can still qualify for 10% if you have a documented history of diastolic readings predominantly 100 or more that required you to start continuous medication.
Getting service-connected
A hypertension claim generally needs a diagnosis confirmed by blood-pressure readings (the VA usually looks for readings taken two or more times on at least three different days), evidence tying it to service, and a nexus. Hypertension is one of the most common secondary claims. It’s often linked to conditions like sleep apnea, PTSD, or diabetes, or to the medications used to treat them.
Estimate and prepare
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a rating if medication controls my blood pressure?
Yes. If you have a documented history of diastolic readings predominantly 100 or more that required continuous medication, you can qualify for the 10% rating even when it’s currently controlled.
Can I claim hypertension as secondary?
Often, yes. Hypertension is commonly claimed as secondary to conditions such as sleep apnea, PTSD, or diabetes, with medical evidence linking the two.
General educational information based on the VA’s rating schedule (38 CFR 4.104, DC 7101). Not legal advice or a rating decision, and not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For help, use a free VA-accredited representative.
Last reviewed: July 2026. Primary source: 38 CFR 4.104 (Diagnostic Code 7101), via VA.gov and the eCFR.