How the VA Rates Inguinal Hernia
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7338 criteria a VA rater evaluates Inguinal Hernia against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic code 7338
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7338 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.
0%
$0/month (0% is still service-connected)
Small, reducible inguinal hernia, or without true hernia protrusion; OR not operated but remediable.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Small, reducible bulge or no true protrusion
- Remediable but not yet operated
10%
$180.42/month
Postoperative recurrent inguinal hernia, readily reducible, well supported by truss or belt.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Hernia returned after surgery
- Readily reducible and well supported by a truss/belt
30%
$552.47/month
Small inguinal hernia, postoperative recurrent, or unoperated irremediable, not well supported by truss, or not readily reducible.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Recurrent or irremediable hernia
- Not well supported by a truss, or not readily reducible
- Ongoing discomfort and limitation
60%
$1,435.02/month
Large inguinal hernia, postoperative, recurrent, not well supported under ordinary conditions and not readily reducible, when considered inoperable.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Large recurrent hernia considered inoperable
- Not reducible and not well supported
- Significant impairment of activity
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.
C&P exam tips for Inguinal Hernia
- What wins this rating: the exam should state size, whether the hernia is reducible, whether a truss/belt supports it, recurrence after surgery, and operability — these factors set the tier.
- Bring operative reports if you have had hernia repair, and document any recurrence.
- Note whether a truss or belt is needed and whether it adequately controls the hernia.
Common mistakes on Inguinal Hernia claims
- Not documenting recurrence after surgery, which is required for the compensable tiers.
- Not noting whether the hernia is reducible and adequately supported.
- Overlooking a separate scar rating for the surgical site if painful.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Inguinal Hernia?
Inguinal Hernia is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7338 — diagnostic code 7338.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Inguinal Hernia?
60% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Inguinal Hernia. The criteria at that level describe: Large inguinal hernia, postoperative, recurrent, not well supported under ordinary conditions and not readily reducible, when considered inoperable.
How much does a 60% VA rating for Inguinal Hernia 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.
Build your Inguinal Hernia claim documentation
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Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.