How the VA Rates Hypertension

The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, 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.

Diagnostic code 7101

The rating levels

Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, 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.

10%

$180.42/month

Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more; OR systolic pressure predominantly 160 or more; OR minimum evaluation for an individual taking continuous medication for control of hypertension.

Examples from this level’s criteria

Diastolic consistently 100+
Systolic consistently 160+
Taking antihypertensive medication
Diagnoses confirmed in medical records

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

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

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

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

Bring all blood pressure readings from the past 12 months — multiple readings over time showing predominance at a level are required.
Blood pressure is rated based on 'predominantly' that level — meaning most readings, not just occasional spikes.
List all antihypertensive medications — being on any continuous medication supports at minimum a 10% rating.
Document end-organ damage: renal function, cardiac changes (LVH), retinal changes, stroke — these may support secondary conditions.
If 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 Part 4, 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.

Related tools & guides

Build your Hypertension claim documentation

Your first claim builds free, on screen — a personal statement mapped to these criteria and a cited draft medical opinion. No card to sign up.

Start your claim — free

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.