Every VA disability is rated under a diagnostic code in the VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4). Below are the conditions veterans ask about most, grouped by body system, with the code the VA uses and a plain-language summary of how it’s rated. Open a guide, or ask our free assistant about any condition, then estimate your combined rating with the calculator.
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Mental health
PTSD
Diagnostic Code 9411
Rated 0 to 100% on how much it impairs work and social functioning. A claim generally needs a current diagnosis, an in-service stressor, and a medical link between them.
Read the guideDepression
Diagnostic Code 9434
Rated on the same general mental-disorder formula as PTSD. Often claimed on its own or as secondary to chronic pain or another service-connected condition.
Read the guideAnxiety
Diagnostic Code 9400
Uses the same 0 to 100% general rating formula for mental disorders, based on occupational and social impairment.
Read the guideHearing
Tinnitus
Diagnostic Code 6260
Ringing in the ears carries a single maximum rating of 10%. Very commonly service-connected from in-service noise exposure.
Read the guideHearing loss
Diagnostic Code 6100
Rated from audiometric testing (puretone thresholds and speech discrimination scores), so results depend heavily on your official exam.
Read the guideRespiratory & sleep
Sleep apnea
Diagnostic Code 6847
Rated 0%, 30%, 50%, or 100%. A 50% rating generally applies when a CPAP or similar breathing device is required. Watch for proposed rule changes.
Read the guideSinusitis & rhinitis
Diagnostic Codes 6510 to 6522
Rated on the frequency of incapacitating episodes or the degree of nasal obstruction, depending on the specific condition.
Read the guideMusculoskeletal
Lower back
Diagnostic Codes 5237 / 5242
Rated mainly on range of motion of the spine and on flare-ups. One of the most commonly claimed conditions.
Read the guideKnee
Diagnostic Codes 5257 / 5260 / 5261
Rated on instability and on limitation of flexion or extension. Both knees can be rated separately.
Read the guideNeck (cervical spine)
Diagnostic Code 5237
Rated on range of motion of the cervical spine, using the same general spine formula as the lower back.
Read the guideRadiculopathy
Diagnostic Code 8520
Nerve pain or numbness (often sciatic) is rated on the degree of nerve involvement. Frequently claimed as secondary to a back condition.
Read the guideNeurological
Migraines
Diagnostic Code 8100
Rated on the frequency and severity of “prostrating” attacks, the kind that force you to stop what you’re doing.
Read the guideTraumatic brain injury (TBI)
Diagnostic Code 8045
Rated on facets of cognitive, emotional, and physical impairment. Residual conditions may be rated separately.
Read the guideDigestive
GERD (acid reflux)
Diagnostic Code 7206
Rated under the esophageal and digestive schedule on the severity of symptoms and complications. Often claimed as secondary to another condition or its medication.
Read the guideIBS
Diagnostic Code 7319
Rated on the frequency and severity of disturbances of bowel function. Common in Gulf War and other veterans.
Read the guideCardiovascular & skin
Hypertension
Diagnostic Code 7101
Rated on your blood-pressure readings. Frequently claimed alongside or secondary to other service-connected conditions.
Read the guideScars
Diagnostic Codes 7800 to 7805
Rated on size, location, and whether they are painful or unstable. Several scars can each be rated.
Read the guideThese summaries are general educational information, not legal advice or a rating decision, and this site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Your actual rating depends on your medical evidence, exam results, and the specific rating criteria in 38 CFR Part 4. For help with a claim, work with a free VA-accredited representative, and verify everything at va.gov.