This tool provides estimates for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
Hypertension
- Hypertension ratings are based primarily on diastolic blood pressure readings.
- A 10% rating can be assigned with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more if continuous medication is required.
- Hypertension is commonly claimed as secondary to PTSD, sleep apnea, or diabetes.
- It can serve as a primary condition for secondary claims involving heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke.
Based on VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and related service-connection regulations. This page is a free community resource. We are not VA-accredited and do not file claims or provide legal advice (per 38 U.S.C. § 5904).
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Next review: October 2026
Maintained by: Veterans Benefits Navigator editorial team. Every citation links to a primary federal or state source. See editorial standards and our privacy posture.
Primary sources: 38 CFR Part 4 (Schedule for Rating Disabilities), VA.gov disability compensation, 38 CFR § 3.310 (secondary service connection)
Overview
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a cardiovascular condition rated under Diagnostic Code 7101. It is commonly claimed as a direct service-connected condition or as secondary to conditions such as PTSD, sleep apnea, or diabetes. The VA rates hypertension based on diastolic and systolic blood pressure readings.
The rating criteria focus on diastolic pressure (the bottom number), though systolic pressure (the top number) is also considered at the 10% level. A history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more qualifies for the minimum compensable rating with continuous medication. Higher ratings are assigned as diastolic pressure increases.
Hypertension can serve as the basis for secondary claims involving ischemic heart disease, chronic kidney disease, stroke, and hypertensive retinopathy. Early documentation of blood pressure readings and medication history is critical for establishing the severity of the condition.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Confirmed diagnosis of hypertension but blood pressure readings do not meet the criteria for a compensable rating. |
| 10% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, or systolic pressure predominantly 160 or more; or minimum evaluation for an individual with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more who requires continuous medication for control. |
| 20% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more, or systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more. |
| 40% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more. |
| 60% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more. |
- 0%
Confirmed diagnosis of hypertension but blood pressure readings do not meet the criteria for a compensable rating.
- 10%
Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, or systolic pressure predominantly 160 or more; or minimum evaluation for an individual with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more who requires continuous medication for control.
- 20%
Diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more, or systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more.
- 40%
Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more.
- 60%
Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more.
These criteria describe how a VA Compensation & Pension examiner evaluates the condition during a rating exam. They are not a self-test. For mental health conditions under 38 CFR 4.130, a diagnosis must be made by a qualified clinician under DSM-5. Actual ratings depend on the totality of evidence reviewed by the VA.
Evidence Checklist
Required
Blood pressure readings
Multiple blood pressure readings over time showing a pattern of elevated diastolic and/or systolic pressure.
Medication records
Documentation of antihypertensive medications prescribed, including names, dosages, and duration of treatment.
Recommended
Treatment records
Medical records from cardiology or primary care showing ongoing management of hypertension.
Helpful
Home blood pressure log
A log of blood pressure readings taken at home over a period of weeks or months to demonstrate the pattern of elevation.
Complication records
Documentation of any complications such as cardiac changes, kidney function decline, or retinal damage related to hypertension.
Secondary Conditions
These conditions may be claimed as secondary to Hypertension. A nexus is the medical link between a service-connected condition and a related condition. Nexus strength indicates the level of established medical evidence supporting that connection.
Ischemic Heart Disease
DC 7005, Typical range: 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%
Chronic Kidney Disease
DC 7541, Typical range: 0%, 30%, 60%, 80%, 100%
Stroke / CVA Residuals
DC 8008, Typical range: 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, 100%
Hypertensive Retinopathy
DC 6006, Typical range: 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%
Explore all secondary conditions in the Secondary Condition Mapper tool.
C&P Exam Preparation
What to Expect
- The examiner will take multiple blood pressure readings, typically at least two or three, during the appointment.
- You will be asked about your blood pressure reading history and whether you monitor your blood pressure at home.
- The examiner will review your medication history, including all antihypertensive medications past and present.
How to Prepare
- Consider keeping a home blood pressure log for several weeks before the exam, recording readings at consistent times of day.
- Know all current and past blood pressure medications, including dosages and any that were changed due to ineffectiveness or side effects.
- You may want to prepare to discuss whether your blood pressure is controlled with medication or remains elevated despite treatment.
View the full C&P exam preparation guide for detailed tips and common mistakes.
Related DBQs
Hypertension
Form 21-0960A-3
Search all DBQ forms in the DBQ Finder tool.
Next Steps
This information is for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.