The VA rates hypertension at 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60% under Diagnostic Code 7101, based on your diastolic and systolic blood-pressure readings. Importantly, the PACT Act made hypertension a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange — meaning eligible Vietnam-era and other herbicide-exposed veterans no longer have to prove the link. Hypertension is also frequently claimed as secondary to PTSD, diabetes, or kidney disease.
Diagnostic code
DC 7101
How the rating works
10% = diastolic mostly 100+ or systolic 160+ (or 10% as the minimum if you require continuous medication with a history of diastolic 100+); 20% = diastolic 110+ or systolic 200+; 40% = diastolic 120+; 60% = diastolic 130+. Readings must be confirmed by multiple measurements.
Secondary conditions to watch for
These are commonly connected to hypertension — each can be rated on top of it with a medical nexus. Most veterans leave these on the table.
Presumptive (Agent Orange / PACT Act)
Hypertension is now presumptive for herbicide-exposed veterans — a major change under the PACT Act.
Secondary to PTSD
Chronic stress response can cause or aggravate high blood pressure.
Secondary to diabetes / kidney disease
Both commonly drive hypertension.
Evidence that wins this claim
- Blood-pressure readings (multiple, on separate days) confirming the diagnosis.
- A medication list if you require continuous treatment.
- For Agent Orange: proof of qualifying herbicide exposure (locations/dates).
- For secondary claims: a nexus opinion tying hypertension to the primary condition.
Hypertension — frequently asked questions
- Is hypertension a PACT Act presumptive condition?
- Yes. The PACT Act added hypertension as a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange and certain other herbicides, so eligible veterans don’t have to prove the connection.
- What VA rating can I get for high blood pressure?
- Ratings are 10%, 20%, 40%, or 60% under DC 7101, set by your confirmed diastolic and systolic readings. A 10% minimum applies if you need continuous medication with a history of diastolic pressure of 100 or more.
- Can hypertension be secondary to PTSD?
- Yes. With a medical nexus opinion linking your blood pressure to service-connected PTSD, hypertension can be granted as a secondary condition.
Updated June 2026. Ratings come from the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4); your exact rating depends on the medical evidence. Educational information, not medical or legal advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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