The biggest mistake veterans make is claiming one condition and stopping there. Most service-connected conditions open the door to secondary claims that are rated on top of the original — that’s how ratings climb toward 100%. Pick a condition below to see how it’s rated and what it can unlock.
Tinnitus
Ringing in the ears
VA rating, the 10% cap, and the secondary claims tinnitus opens up.
Sleep apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea
How CPAP use drives a 50% rating, and the PTSD secondary connection.
PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder
The mental-health rating ladder (0–100%) and the conditions PTSD drives.
Hypertension
High blood pressure
The blood-pressure rating tiers and the new PACT Act presumption.
Migraines
Headaches
How "prostrating attacks" set the rating, up to 50%.
GERD
Acid reflux
How reflux is rated by analogy, and its link to PTSD medication.
Radiculopathy
Sciatica / nerve pain
The classic secondary to a service-connected back or neck condition.
Back pain
Lumbar / spine condition
How range of motion sets the rating — and the secondaries it opens.
Knee pain
Knee / joint condition
Range of motion, instability, and how each knee is rated separately.
Type 2 diabetes
Diabetes mellitus
Agent Orange presumption, the rating tiers, and downstream complications.
Not sure what you’re leaving on the table?
A VA-accredited representative will review your conditions for free and find the secondary claims you may have missed.
Free to you · No obligation · We may be compensated by the representative, which never affects your benefits. Not affiliated with the VA.