Today, VA disability expert Brian Reese reveals and explains 50 VA disabilities that are EASY to claim and WIN right now.
While there are 923 eligible conditions for VA disability, this list is the top 50 easiest VA claims to get service connected along with their ratings.
Without further ado, let’s begin!
Table of Contents
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List of VA Disabilities That Are Easy to Claim and Their Ratings
Here’s a list of the easiest VA claims to win along with their most common VA ratings:
- #1. DC 6260, Tinnitus: Rated at 10%
- #2. DC 5260, Limitation of Flexion of the Knee: Rated at 10%
- #3. DC 6100, Hearing Loss: Rated at 0%
- #4. DC 9411, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Rated at 70%
- #5. DC 5237, Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain: Rated at 10%
- #6. DC 8520, Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve (Sciatica): Rated at 20%
- #7. DC 7805, Scars, General: Rated at 0%
- #8. DC 5271, Limitation of Range of Motion of the Ankle: Rated at 10%
- #9. DC 5201, Limitation of Motion of the Arm: Rated at 10%
- #10. DC 8100, Migraines (Headaches): Rated at 30%
- #11. DC 5242, Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine: Rated at 10%
- #12. DC 6847, Sleep Apnea: Rated at 50%
- #13. DC 8045, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Rated at 30%
- #14. DC 9434, Major Depressive Disorder: Rated at 70%
- #15. DC 6602, Asthma: Rated at 10%
- #16. DC 7913, Diabetes Type 2: Rated at 20%
- #17. DC varies (depending on type), Cancer: Rated at 100% (when active; if not active, it’s rated under residuals)
- #18. DC 9400, Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Rated at 70%
- #19. DC 5276, Pes Planus (Flat Feet): Rated at 20%
- #20. DC 8520, Radiculopathy: Rated at 20%
- #21. DC 9440, Adjustment Disorder: Rated at 70%
- #22. DC 9421, Somatic Symptom Disorder (Chronic Pain Syndrome): Rated at 70%
- #23. DC 7206, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Rated at 30%
- #24. DC 7319, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Rated at 30%
- #25. DC 7522, Erectile Dysfunction: Rated at 0%
- #26. DC 5269, Plantar Fasciitis: Rated at 20%
- #27. DC varies (depending on type), Arthritis: Rated at 20%
- #28. DC 7101, Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Rated at 10%
- #29. DC 5242, Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD): Rated at 20%
- #30. DC 8515, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS): Rated at 10%
- #31. DC 6354, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): Rated at 20%
- #32. DC 5025, Fibromyalgia: Rated at 20%
- #33. DC 7806, Eczema: Rated at 10%
- #34. DC 6522, Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Rated at 10%
- #35. DC 6510, Sinusitis: Rated at 30%
- #36. DC 6205, Meniere’s Syndrome: Rated at 30%
- #37. DC 7005, Arteriosclerotic Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease): Rated at 30%
- #38. DC 6018, Chronic Conjunctivitis: Rated at 10%
- #39. DC 9905, Limited Motion of the Jaw (Temporomandibular Disorder): Rated at 10%
- #40. DC 7346, Hiatal Hernia: Rated at 30%
- #41. DC 7336, Hemorrhoids: Rated at 0%
- #42. DC 7120, Varicose Veins: Rated at 0%
- #43. DC 7508, Nephrolithiasis (Kidney Stones): Rated at 10%
- #44. DC 7903, Hypothyroidism: Rated at 30%
- #45. DC varies (depending on type), Anemia: Rated at 10%
- #46. DC 8520, Peripheral Neuropathy: Rated at 20%
- #47. DC 7527, Prostate Gland Injuries: Rated at 0%
- #48. DC 7005, Ischemic Heart Disease: Rated at 30%
- #49. DC 6204, Vertigo: Rated at 10%
- #50. DC 7542, Urinary Incontinence: Rated at 10%
Okay, now that we know the top 50 easiest VA disability claims, let’s explore the list in detail, along with their description, VA ratings, and pro tips.
#1. Tinnitus
Description: Tinnitus, or “Ringing-in-the-Ear-Syndrome,” is the most common VA disability. It includes ringing, hissing, buzzing, or other noises in one or both ears without an external sound source.
VA Rating: 10%
Pro Tip: There’s no test for “Subjective” Tinnitus, the most common type. Write a strong Statement in Support of a Claim for Tinnitus and explain the in-service event or injury that led to your ringing in the ear (e.g., worked on a flight line without proper hearing protection).
#2. Limitation of Flexion, Knee
Description: Knee pain from injury, arthritis, gout, or infection is common among veterans.
VA Rating: 0% to 30%
Pro Tip: If you have pain upon flexion or extension of your knee, the VA must award the minimum compensable rating for the condition, which is 10 percent.
#3. Hearing Loss
Description: Common in veterans, hearing loss is due to aging and chronic noise exposure.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%
Pro Tip: If you’ve been out of the military for more than 12 months, hearing loss is difficult to service-connect above 0%. Get a Medical Nexus Letter to improve your odds.
#4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Description: PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, known as a “stressor event.”
VA Rating: 0% to 100%, with the average rating at 70%.
Pro Tip: PTSD claims require a stressor event. If you feared for your life, your stressor is strong enough to get a service-connected PTSD rating. Note that it’s unlikely to receive a separate rating for PTSD if already rated for another mental health condition due to symptom overlap.
#5. Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain
Description: Common neck pain often resulting from poor posture, carrying heavy items, or deployments.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: If you have pain upon flexion or extension of your neck, the VA must award the minimum compensable rating for the condition, which is 10 percent.
#6. Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve (Sciatica)
Description: Sciatica involves pain radiating along the sciatic nerve from the lower back down each leg.
VA Rating: 10% to 80%
Pro Tip: A Limitation of Range of Motion (ROM) test with a goniometer should be performed at your C&P exam for Sciatica. Make the doctor stop as soon as you feel pain!
#7. Scars, General
Description: Scars resulting from accidents, burns, surgery, acne, or illness.
VA Rating: 0% to 80%
Pro Tip: Upload pictures of your scars on VA.gov to provide visual evidence for the C&P examiner and VA Rater.
#8. Limitation of Range of Motion of the Ankle
Description: Ankle conditions resulting from military service can cause pain and limited motion.
VA Rating: 10% to 20%
Pro Tip: If you have pain upon flexion or extension of your ankle, the VA must award the minimum compensable rating for the condition, which is 10 percent.
#9. Limitation of Motion of the Arm
Description: Arm conditions, including frozen shoulder, resulting in stiffness and pain.
VA Rating: 0% to 40%
Pro Tip: If you have pain upon movement of your arm, the VA must award the minimum compensable rating for the condition, which is 10 percent.
#10. Migraines (Headaches)
Description: Migraines cause severe pain, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
VA Rating: 0% to 50%
Pro Tip: The term “Prostrating” is crucial for migraine ratings. It refers to the severity of headaches causing extreme weakness or the need to lie down.
#11. Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
Description: A common form of arthritis affecting the spine, causing pain and stiffness.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: If you have painful motion of your spine, the VA must award the minimum compensable rating for the condition, which is 10 percent.
#12. Sleep Apnea
Description: A serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts.
VA Rating: 0%, 30%, 50%, 100%
Pro Tip: If your sleep apnea wasn’t diagnosed in the military, you’ll likely need a Nexus Letter to support your claim for service connection.
#13. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Description: TBI results from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%
Pro Tip: Keep mental health symptoms separate from TBI symptoms, especially if already rated for another mental health condition.
#14. Major Depressive Disorder
Description: A serious mood disorder causing persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%, with the average rating at 70%.
Pro Tip: Consider getting an independent evaluation for mental health to strengthen your claim and better prepare for your C&P exam.
#15. Asthma
Description: A respiratory condition causing narrowed airways and difficulty breathing.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: If your asthma wasn’t diagnosed in-service, you’ll need a Nexus Letter for service connection.
#16. Diabetes (Type 2)
Description: A chronic condition affecting how the body regulates and uses sugar.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: If your diabetes wasn’t diagnosed in-service, you’ll likely need a Nexus Letter to support your claim.
#17. Cancer
Description: Characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%, with 100% when active.
Pro Tip: Consider getting an independent evaluation for cancer, especially if linked to military toxic or chemical exposure.
#18. Anxiety Disorders
Description: Intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%, with the average rating at 70%.
Pro Tip: Consider getting an independent evaluation for mental health to strengthen your claim.
#19. Pes Planus (Flat Feet)
Description: Flattened arches on the feet, causing pain and discomfort.
VA Rating: 0% to 50%
Pro Tip: Flat Feet can be service-connected directly, secondarily, or due to aggravation of a pre-existing condition.
#20. Radiculopathy
Description: Pain caused by pinched or damaged nerve roots in the spine.
VA Rating: 0% to 90%
Pro Tip: Many veterans with back conditions can also get service-connected for Radiculopathy.
#21. Chronic Adjustment Disorder
Description: Stress-related condition caused by significant life changes or events.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%, with the average rating at 70%.
Pro Tip: Consider getting an independent evaluation for mental health to strengthen your claim.
#22. Somatic Symptom Disorder (Chronic Pain Syndrome)
Description: Chronic pain causing major emotional distress and functional issues.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%, with the average rating at 70%.
Pro Tip: Consider getting an independent evaluation for mental health to strengthen your claim.
#23. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Description: A digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus.
VA Rating: 0% to 80%
Pro Tip: GERD can be rated secondary to PTSD if caused or aggravated by medications taken for PTSD.
#24. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Description: A disorder affecting the large intestine, causing cramping, pain, and changes in bowel movements.
VA Rating: 10% to 30%.
Pro Tip: Effective May 19, 2024, veterans can now be rated for both IBS and GERD.
#25. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Description: Inability to achieve or maintain an erection.
VA Rating: 0%, but qualifies for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K).
Pro Tip: ED can be rated secondary to PTSD or other mental health conditions.
#26. Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)
Description: Inflammation of the thick band of tissue at the bottom of the foot causing heel pain.
VA Rating: 10% to 30%
Pro Tip: Plantar Fasciitis can be service-connected secondary to other conditions like knee, hip, or back pain.
#27. Arthritis (Various)
Description: Swelling and tenderness of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: If arthritis causes painful motion, the VA must award the minimum compensable rating of 10%.
#28. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Description: Long-term force of blood against artery walls being too high, causing health problems.
VA Rating: 10% to 60%
Pro Tip: Hypertension can be secondary to Sleep Apnea. Consider getting a Nexus Letter for service connection.
#29. Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
Description: Spinal disorder causing steady degeneration of the intervertebral discs.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: If DDD causes painful motion, the VA must award the minimum compensable rating of 10%.
#30. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
Description: Condition caused by pressure on the median nerve in the hand, causing pain and numbness.
VA Rating: 10% to 70%
Pro Tip: Severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can qualify for Special Monthly Compensation for Loss of Use of a Hand.
#31. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Description: Condition characterized by extreme fatigue that worsens with physical or mental activity.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: Gulf War Veterans with CFS do not need to prove a service connection but should get a Medical Nexus Letter.
#32. Fibromyalgia
Description: Condition causing widespread musculoskeletal pain along with fatigue, sleep, and mood issues.
VA Rating: 10% to 40%
Pro Tip: Fibromyalgia is a presumptive illness for Gulf War Veterans. Consider getting a diagnosis and registering on the Gulf War Registry.
#33. Eczema
Description: Chronic condition causing red, itchy skin.
VA Rating: 0% to 60%
Pro Tip: Upload pictures of your Eczema on VA.gov to provide visual evidence for the C&P examiner and VA Rater.
#34. Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
Description: Allergic reaction causing sneezing, congestion, and itchy nose.
VA Rating: 10% to 30%
Pro Tip: Burn Pit exposure can lead to service connection for Allergic Rhinitis. Consider getting a Nexus Letter for support.
#35. Sinusitis
Description: Condition causing swollen and inflamed sinuses, interfering with mucus drainage.
VA Rating: 0% to 50%
Pro Tip: Burn Pit exposure can lead to service connection for Sinusitis. Consider getting a Nexus Letter for support.
#36. Meniere’s Syndrome
Description: Inner ear condition causing dizzy spells (vertigo) and hearing loss.
VA Rating: 30% to 100%
Pro Tip: Ensure you have a medical diagnosis for Meniere’s Syndrome before filing a claim.
#37. Arteriosclerotic Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease)
Description: Buildup of plaque in the arteries, causing chest pain and shortness of breath.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: Ensure you have a medical diagnosis for heart disease before filing a claim.
#38. Chronic Conjunctivitis
Description: Inflammation of the conjunctiva in the eye.
VA Rating: 10%
Pro Tip: If you have active trachomatous conjunctivitis, it is rated at 30%.
#39. Limited Motion of the Jaw (Temporomandibular Disorder)
Description: Conditions of the jaw causing limited motion and pain.
VA Rating: 10% to 50%
Pro Tip: The Painful Motion principle applies, ensuring a minimum rating of 10% if there is pain upon movement.
#40. Hiatal Hernia
Description: Condition where the upper part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm.
VA Rating: 10% to 60%
Pro Tip: Now that GERD has its own DC under 7206, it’s possible to be rated for both GERD and Hiatal Hernia so long as symptoms don’t pyramid. Consider getting an independent evaluation for severe hernia conditions that might warrant higher ratings.
#41. Hemorrhoids
Description: Swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus.
VA Rating: 0% to 20%
Pro Tip: Ensure you have a medical diagnosis for hemorrhoids before filing a claim.
#42. Varicose Veins
Description: Enlarged veins, often in the legs, causing discomfort.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%
Pro Tip: Evaluate each extremity separately if more than one is involved, using the bilateral factor if applicable.
#43. Nephrolithiasis (Kidney Stones)
Description: Hard deposits made of minerals and salts in the kidneys.
VA Rating: 10% to 30%
Pro Tip: Any condition more severe than 30% is rated under the Renal Rating System.
#44. Hypothyroidism
Description: Condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones.
VA Rating: 30% to 100%
Pro Tip: Ensure crisis stabilization is determined by a physician before rating residual effects.
#45. Anemia
Description: Condition where you lack enough healthy red blood cells.
VA Rating: 0% to 100%
Pro Tip: Get a medical diagnosis for anemia before filing a claim, and consider getting a Nexus Letter.
#46. Peripheral Neuropathy
Description: Damage to peripheral nerves causing pain and numbness.
VA Rating: 10% to 80%
Pro Tip: Ensure a Range of Motion test is performed during your C&P exam, stopping as soon as you feel pain.
#47. Prostate Gland Injuries
Description: Conditions affecting the prostate gland, commonly Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
VA Rating: 0% to 60%
Pro Tip: Ensure a medical diagnosis for prostate conditions before filing a claim.
#48. Ischemic Heart Disease
Description: Reduced blood flow to the heart due to blockage in the arteries.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: Ensure you have a medical diagnosis for heart disease before filing a claim.
#49. Vertigo
Description: Sudden sensation of spinning or dizziness.
VA Rating: 10% to 100%
Pro Tip: Ensure you have a medical diagnosis for vertigo before filing a claim.
#50. Urinary Incontinence
Description: Loss of bladder control.
VA Rating: 10% to 60%
Pro Tip: Ensure you have a medical diagnosis for urinary incontinence before filing a claim.
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About the Author
Brian Reese
Brian Reese is one of the top VA disability benefits experts in the world and bestselling author of You Deserve It: The Definitive Guide to Getting the Veteran Benefits You’ve Earned (Second Edition).
Brian’s frustration with the VA claim process led him to create VA Claims Insider, which provides disabled veterans with tips, strategies, and lessons learned to win their VA disability compensation claim, faster, even if they’ve already filed, been denied, gave up, or don’t know where to start.
As the founder of VA Claims Insider and CEO of Military Disability Made Easy, he has helped serve more than 10 million military members and veterans since 2013 through free online educational resources.
He is a former active duty Air Force officer with extensive experience leading hundreds of individuals and multi-functional teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour to Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.
Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO, and he holds an MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, Stillwater, OK, where he was a National Honor Scholar (Top 1% of Graduate School class).
