Diagnostic code 7101

How the VA Rates Hypertension

The plain-English version of the 38 CFR § 4.104, DC 7101 criteria a VA rater evaluates Hypertension against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.

Check your symptoms All rating criteria

38 CFR § 4.104, DC 7101

Hypertension · 4 levels

60%$1,435.02a month
40%$795.84a month
20%$356.66a month
10%$180.42a month

2026 VA rates (effective December 1, 2025), veteran alone, as the only rated condition. VA decides the level.

Key facts

Regulation: 38 CFR § 4.104, DC 7101
Diagnostic code: 7101
Levels in the schedule: 10% · 20% · 40% · 60%
Top level (60%) pays: $1,435.02/month2026, veteran alone

The rating levels

Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.104, DC 7101 for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.

60%
$1,435.02/month
Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Diastolic consistently 130+
- Severe, refractory hypertension
- Associated end-organ damage (kidney, heart, eye)
- Hypertensive emergency requiring hospitalization
40%
$795.84/month
Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Diastolic consistently 120+
- Hypertensive crisis episodes
- End-organ damage concerns
- Multiple medications at maximum doses
20%
$356.66/month
Diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more; OR systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Diastolic consistently 110+
- Systolic consistently 200+
- Multiple antihypertensive medications
- Hypertensive urgency episodes documented
10%
$180.42/month
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. (Medication alone, without that diastolic-100 history, does not meet the 10% minimum.)
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Diastolic predominantly 100+
- Systolic predominantly 160+
- History of diastolic predominantly 100+ AND continuous antihypertensive medication required for control
- Hypertension confirmed by readings taken two or more times on at least three different days

The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.

The evidence that matters most

Blood-pressure readings across multiple visits — “predominantly” means the pattern, so one reading is never enough — plus the medication that controls it

C&P exam tips for Hypertension

1Bring all blood pressure readings from the past 12 months — multiple readings over time showing predominance at a level are required.
2Blood pressure is rated based on 'predominantly' that level — meaning most readings, not just occasional spikes.
3List all antihypertensive medications AND bring the readings from before treatment — continuous medication supports the 10% minimum only with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more.
4Document end-organ damage: renal function, cardiac changes (LVH), retinal changes, stroke — these may support secondary conditions.
5If hypertension is secondary to PTSD, document that connection explicitly.

Common mistakes on Hypertension claims

Having only a few high readings rather than a documented pattern — 'predominantly' requires consistent elevation.
Not claiming hypertension as secondary to PTSD when stress is a documented trigger.
Not documenting end-organ damage separately (chronic kidney disease, IHD, etc.).

Frequently asked questions

What diagnostic code does the VA use for Hypertension?

Hypertension is rated under 38 CFR § 4.104, DC 7101 — diagnostic code 7101.

What is the highest schedular VA rating for Hypertension?

60% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Hypertension. The criteria at that level describe: Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more.

How much does a 60% VA rating for Hypertension pay in 2026?

$1,435.02 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.

Can Hypertension be claimed as a secondary condition?

Yes — veterans commonly file Hypertension secondary to PTSD / Mental Health, Sleep Apnea, Diabetes Mellitus (Type 2) under 38 C.F.R. § 3.310. What carries a secondary claim is a medical nexus opinion connecting it to the service-connected condition.

Build your Hypertension claim documentation

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Educational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.