As a veteran, navigating the VA disability claims process can feel like a daunting task.
You’ve served our country with honor, and now it’s time to ensure you get the benefits you’ve earned.
But with so many conditions and varying ratings, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide on the Top 25 VA Disability Claims for 2024.
In this updated guide, we’ll break down each of the most common VA disability claims, explain the VA rating criteria in detail, and provide tips on how you can increase your chances of getting the highest rating possible.
Whether you’re just starting your VA claim journey or looking to maximize your current benefits, this guide will give you the knowledge and confidence to take control of your VA disability claim.
Table of Contents
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Top 25 VA Disability Claims and Their Ratings
1. Tinnitus
Tinnitus, commonly known as “ringing in the ears,” is the most frequently claimed VA disability. Veterans experience this condition as persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing noises in one or both ears, even when there is no external sound. The VA rates Tinnitus under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6260, and it carries a single disability rating of 10%. There are no higher or lower ratings available. As of the most recent data, 2,944,093 veterans are service-connected for Tinnitus.
Pro Tip: Since Tinnitus is subjective, meaning only the veteran can hear it, providing a detailed Statement in Support of a Claim (SSA) that links the condition to an in-service event (like exposure to loud noises without hearing protection) is crucial.
2. Limitation of Flexion, Knee
Limitation of Flexion of the Knee is the second most common VA disability claim. This condition refers to the reduced ability to bend the knee, often due to injuries such as torn ligaments or cartilage, or from conditions like arthritis. The VA rates this condition under DC 5257, with ratings ranging from 0% to 30%. The maximum rating of 30% applies to cases with severe instability requiring both bracing and an assistive device for walking.
Pro Tip: If you experience pain upon flexion or extension of your knee, you are entitled to a minimum compensable rating of 10% due to the painful motion principle.
3. Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve (Sciatica)
Sciatica, or paralysis of the sciatic nerve, is the third most common VA disability claim. This condition involves pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. The VA rates Sciatica under DC 8520, with ratings from 10% to 80%, depending on the severity of the paralysis. Complete paralysis, which results in a foot that dangles and drops with no movement possible below the knee, warrants the highest rating of 80%.
Pro Tip: During your Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam, ensure that the doctor stops the Range of Motion (ROM) test as soon as you feel pain, which can influence the rating decision.
4. Hearing Loss
Hearing Loss is a common claim among veterans, often caused by exposure to loud noises during military service. The VA rates hearing loss under DC 6100, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%. The majority of veterans receive ratings between 0% and 10%, with 100% reserved for total deafness in both ears.
Pro Tip: Hearing loss claims are challenging to connect to service if more than 12 months have passed since discharge. A strong Medical Nexus Letter can significantly improve your chances of a successful claim.
5. Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain
Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain, commonly referred to as neck pain, is the fifth easiest VA disability claim. This condition often results from poor posture, carrying heavy loads, or repetitive motions during service. The VA rates these strains under DC 5237, with ratings ranging from 10% to 100%, depending on the severity and impact on the spine’s range of motion.
Pro Tip: If you experience pain during flexion or extension of your neck, the VA must award a minimum compensable rating of 10%, even if the motion is not significantly limited.
6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is the most common service-connected mental health condition among veterans and the sixth easiest to claim. PTSD results from experiencing or witnessing traumatic events during service. The VA rates PTSD under DC 9411, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%, depending on the level of occupational and social impairment.
Pro Tip: A strong claim for PTSD requires a clear link between the condition and a stressor event during service. If you feared for your life during the event, your claim is likely to be approved.
7. Limitation of Motion of the Arm
Limitation of Motion of the Arm ranks seventh among the easiest VA claims. This condition often involves a “frozen” shoulder or arm, limiting the range of motion due to stiffness and pain. The VA rates this condition under DC 5201, with ratings ranging from 0% to 40%, depending on how limited the arm’s motion is.
Pro Tip: If you experience pain when moving your arm, the VA is required to assign a minimum compensable rating of 10% under the VA’s painful motion rule.
8. Limitation of Range of Motion of the Ankle
This condition, the eighth most common VA disability claim, affects the ankle’s ability to move due to injury or arthritis. The VA rates it under DC 5271, with ratings between 10% and 20%. The highest rating of 20% applies to cases with marked limitation of motion.
Pro Tip: Ensure that any pain during ankle movement is documented, as this can secure the minimum compensable rating of 10%.
9. Migraines (Headaches)
Migraines are the ninth easiest VA disability claim. These headaches can be severe and debilitating, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. The VA rates migraines under DC 8100, with ratings ranging from 0% to 50%, based on frequency and severity.
Pro Tip: The term “Prostrating” is crucial in migraine claims, as higher ratings require evidence that migraines force you to lay down or otherwise incapacitate you.
10. Scars, General
Scars round out the top 10 easiest VA disability claims. These form as part of the body’s healing process and can result from injuries, surgeries, or burns. The VA rates scars under DCs 7801, 7802, and 7805, with ratings varying from 10% to 80% based on severity and impact on appearance and function.
Pro Tip: Uploading photos of your scars to VA.gov is essential, as visual evidence can strengthen your claim by clearly showing the extent and impact of the scarring.
11. Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine, also known as osteoarthritis or Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD), is a common condition among veterans. It occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones wears down over time, leading to pain and stiffness in the spine. The VA rates this condition under DC 5242, with ratings ranging from 10% to 100%, depending on the severity of the condition and its impact on the spine’s range of motion. The highest rating of 100% is assigned when the entire spine is frozen in an unfavorable position.
Pro Tip: If you experience painful motion of the spine, the VA must award a minimum compensable rating of 10%, even if the range of motion is not significantly limited.
12. Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea is the 12th most claimed VA disability. This serious sleep disorder involves repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, often leading to loud snoring and daytime fatigue. The VA rates Sleep Apnea under DC 6847, with ratings of 0%, 30%, 50%, and 100%. A 50% rating is assigned if the veteran requires a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, while a 100% rating is reserved for cases with chronic respiratory failure or the need for a tracheostomy.
Pro Tip: If your Sleep Apnea was not diagnosed in-service, consider filing a secondary service connection claim if it was caused or aggravated by another service-connected condition.
13. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is the 13th most common VA disability claim, often resulting from a violent blow or jolt to the head during military service. The VA rates TBI under DC 8045, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%, depending on the severity of cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments. The highest rating of 100% is assigned when there is “total” impairment in one or more of these areas.
Pro Tip: Keep mental health symptoms separate from TBI symptoms in your claim to avoid overlap and ensure that each condition is rated appropriately.
14. Major Depressive Disorder
Major Depressive Disorder, or clinical depression, is the 14th most claimed VA disability. This serious mood disorder leads to persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest, significantly impacting daily functioning. The VA rates depression under DC 9434 and 9435, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%. The average rating for depression is 70%, reflecting significant impairment in social and occupational functioning.
Pro Tip: An independent mental health evaluation can strengthen your claim by providing a clear diagnosis, nexus opinion, and documentation of symptoms.
15. Asthma
Asthma ranks as the 15th most common VA disability claim. This respiratory condition causes the airways to narrow and swell, leading to breathing difficulties, wheezing, and coughing. The VA rates Asthma under DC 6602, with ratings of 10%, 30%, 60%, and 100%, based on the severity of symptoms and the need for medication or other treatments.
Pro Tip: If your Asthma was not diagnosed during service, obtaining a Nexus Letter can be crucial for establishing service connection.
16. Diabetes (Type 2)
Type 2 Diabetes is the 16th most common VA disability claim. This chronic condition affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, leading to various complications. The VA rates Type 2 Diabetes under DC 7913, with ratings ranging from 10% to 100%, depending on the need for insulin, diet regulation, and activity limitations.
Pro Tip: A Nexus Letter is essential if your Diabetes was diagnosed after service, as it can help establish a connection to your military service.
17. Cancer
Cancer-related disabilities rank 17th among VA claims. Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth, which can affect any part of the body. The VA rates cancer under various Diagnostic Codes, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%, depending on the type, severity, and treatment status. Active cancer typically warrants a 100% rating. When the cancer goes into remission, the 100% rating generally continues for six months following the last treatment (e.g., surgery, radiation, chemotherapy). After this period, the VA will schedule a re-examination. Based on the results, the VA will reassess the veteran’s condition and adjust the disability rating according to any residual symptoms or secondary conditions that persist after the cancer treatment. These residuals could include things like scarring, pain, or organ dysfunction, which are rated under appropriate diagnostic codes.
Pro Tip: If you believe your cancer is related to toxic exposures during service, consider obtaining an independent medical evaluation to support your claim.
18. Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety Disorders are the 18th most common VA disability claim. These disorders involve excessive worry, fear, and panic that interfere with daily life. The VA rates anxiety under several Diagnostic Codes, including DC 9400, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%. The most common VA rating for anxiety is 70%. This rating reflects significant occupational and social impairment, with deficiencies in most areas such as work, school, family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood.
Pro Tip: An independent mental health evaluation can provide the necessary documentation to strengthen your claim, especially if your symptoms have worsened over time.
19. Pes Planus (Flat Feet)
Pes Planus, or Flat Feet, is the 19th most common VA disability claim. This condition occurs when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. The VA rates Flat Feet under DC 5276, with ratings ranging from 0% to 50%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the effectiveness of orthopedic treatments.
Pro Tip: If your Flat Feet were aggravated by service, make sure to provide evidence showing how your condition worsened during your time in the military.
20. Radiculopathy
Radiculopathy is the 20th most common VA disability claim. This condition involves nerve pain resulting from pinched or damaged nerve roots in the spine. The VA rates Radiculopathy under various Diagnostic Codes, with ratings ranging from 0% to 90%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the affected nerve group.
Pro Tip: Radiculopathy is often rated as a secondary condition to a service-connected back disability, so make sure to link it to your primary spinal condition.
21. Chronic Adjustment Disorder
Chronic Adjustment Disorder is the 21st most common VA disability claim. This stress-related condition can develop from various life changes, such as deployments, injuries, or personal losses. The VA rates Adjustment Disorder under DC 9440, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%, based on the severity of social and occupational impairment.
Pro Tip: An independent mental health evaluation can provide crucial evidence to support your claim, particularly if your condition has worsened over time.
22. Somatic Symptom Disorder (Chronic Pain Syndrome)
Somatic Symptom Disorder, also known as Chronic Pain Syndrome with Depression and Anxiety, is the 22nd most common VA disability claim. This condition involves a heightened focus on physical symptoms, such as chronic pain, leading to significant emotional distress. The VA rates this condition under various mental health DCs, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Pro Tip: An independent mental health evaluation can help document the full extent of your symptoms, strengthening your claim for this complex condition.
23. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is the 23rd most common VA disability claim. This digestive condition involves the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing discomfort and potential damage. The VA rates GERD under the newly established DC 7206, with ratings ranging from 0% to 80%, depending on the severity of symptoms and their impact on health.
Pro Tip: Effective May 19, 2024, veterans can get VA disability ratings for both GERD and IBS. With the new digestive system VA rating changes, veterans are now eligible for separate VA ratings for GERD and IBS.
24. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS ranks as the 24th most common VA disability claim. This gastrointestinal disorder causes symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. The VA rates IBS under DC 7319, with ratings ranging from 10% to 30%, based on the frequency and severity of symptoms.
Pro Tip: Effective May 19, 2024, under the new name for DC 7319, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), veterans will be eligible to receive VA disability for IBS ranging from 10% to 30% with a break at 20%.
25. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile Dysfunction is the 25th most common VA disability claim. This condition is characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. The VA typically assigns a 0% rating for ED under Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K) for “Loss of Use of a Creative Organ,” which provides additional monthly compensation.
Pro Tip: If your ED is related to a mental health condition like PTSD, make sure to file a secondary service connection claim to potentially increase your overall compensation.
About the Author
Brian Reese
Brian Reese is a world-renowned VA disability benefits expert and the #1 bestselling author of VA Claim Secrets and You Deserve It. Motivated by his own frustration with the VA claim process, Brian founded VA Claims Insider to help disabled veterans secure their VA disability compensation faster, regardless of their past struggles with the VA. Since 2013, he has positively impacted the lives of over 10 million military, veterans, and their families.
A former active-duty Air Force officer, Brian has extensive experience leading diverse teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour in Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.
Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy and earned his MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, where he was a National Honor Scholar, ranking in the top 1% of his class.
