The VA disability conditions list covers thousands of medical conditions recognized for service connection. Each one is rated under 38 CFR Part 4 — the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities. This 2026 guide shows the most common conditions, how the VA rates each, and which related secondary conditions you might also claim.
How VA disability conditions are rated
The VA assigns a percentage (0%, 10%, 20%, up to 100%) for each service-connected condition. Ratings reflect the average loss in working ability caused by the disability. Multiple ratings combine using the VA's combined rating formula — not simple addition.
Most common VA disability conditions
| Condition | DC code | Rating range |
|---|---|---|
| Tinnitus | 6260 | 10% |
| PTSD | 9411 | 0–100% |
| Hearing loss | 6100 | 0–100% |
| Sleep apnea | 6847 | 0/30/50/100% |
| Lumbar strain | 5237 | 10/20/40/50% |
| Knee limitation of motion | 5260 | 0/10/20/30% |
| Hypertension | 7101 | 10/20/40/60% |
| Migraines | 8100 | 0/10/30/50% |
| Scars (unstable/painful) | 7804 | 10/20/30% |
| Diabetes type 2 | 7913 | 10/20/40/60/100% |
Mental health conditions
All service-connected mental health conditions use a single rating formula (38 CFR 4.130): 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%. Common diagnostic codes include:
- PTSD — DC 9411
- Major depressive disorder — DC 9434
- Generalized anxiety disorder — DC 9400
- Adjustment disorder — DC 9440
- Bipolar disorder — DC 9432
Musculoskeletal conditions
Back, knee, shoulder, and hip conditions are the most-claimed musculoskeletal disabilities. Range of motion drives the rating.
- Cervical spine — DC 5237
- Lumbar spine — DC 5237 or DC 5242
- Knee (limitation of flexion) — DC 5260
- Knee (instability) — DC 5257
- Shoulder — DC 5201
Hearing and tinnitus
Tinnitus is the single most-claimed VA disability. It pays a flat 10% regardless of severity. Hearing loss uses a separate formula based on speech discrimination and puretone audiometry.
Respiratory conditions
- Sleep apnea — DC 6847
- Asthma — DC 6602
- COPD — DC 6604
- Sinusitis — DC 6510-6514
Presumptive conditions
Some conditions are presumed service-connected based on exposure or service era. The PACT Act adds dozens of burn pit cancers and respiratory illnesses. Agent Orange, Camp Lejeune, and Gulf War service all carry their own presumptive lists.
Secondary conditions
A condition caused or worsened by a service-connected disability can be claimed as secondary. Common examples include sleep apnea secondary to PTSD, depression secondary to chronic pain, and radiculopathy secondary to a back condition.
How to claim a condition on the list
- File VA Form 21-526EZ.
- List every condition you want rated.
- Include a current medical diagnosis and service treatment records.
- Add a nexus letter linking the condition to service.
- Submit lay statements on VA Form 21-4138.
Want to estimate your payment? Use the VA disability rating calculator or check the full 2026 VA disability rate chart.