Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Diagnostic Code 7101 • 38 CFR § 4.104
Rated on predominant diastolic and systolic readings—and minimum 10% when history + meds meet the schedule
Diagnostic Code
7101
Hypertension Rating Percentages at a Glance
Diastolic predominantly 130+
Or per current §4.104 DC 7101 text
$1,361/mo
vet alone
Diastolic predominantly 120+
Sustained pattern in records
$755/mo
vet alone
Diastolic 110+ OR systolic 200+
Either threshold can qualify
$339/mo
vet alone
Diastolic 100+ OR systolic 160+ OR continuous meds for control
Minimum schedular floor when criteria met
$171/mo
vet alone
Confirm thresholds against the current 38 CFR § 4.104 DC 7101 table—regulations can be updated. Compensation rates include annual COLA adjustments.
Complete regulatory criteria, CFR citations, and official rating notes
Complete Rating Criteria (DC 7101)
| Rating | VA Criteria (summary — verify in § 4.104) | Pay |
|---|---|---|
| 60% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more. | $1,361 |
| 40% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more. | $755 |
| 20% | Diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more, or systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more. | $339 |
| 10% | Diastolic 100 or more, or systolic 160 or more, or minimum evaluation when history of diastolic 100+ and continuous medication required for control. | $171 |
| 0% | Below compensable thresholds. | $0 |
Real-World Compensation Scenarios
60% hypertension + 70% PTSD
Combined rating typically lands in the high 80s–90% range → roughly $2,241/mo at 90% combined (illustrative).
10% hypertension + 50% sleep apnea + 30% migraines
Even “low” HTN adds to respiratory and neurological ratings—often mid–high 70% combined.
Presumptive Agent Orange / PACT hypertension
If granted service connection on a presumptive basis at 10–20%+, stack with other SC conditions for higher combined %.
Detailed Evidence Requirements
Home BP log
Multiple readings per day over months—show predominant highs, not cherry-picked normals.
Primary care charts
Diagnosis of essential hypertension, medication list, titration history.
Cardiology workup
If secondary to SC heart or kidney issues—echo, labs, renal panel.
Lay statement
Family observation of symptoms, ER visits for hypertensive urgency if any.
Nexus (secondary)
Link to PTSD, sleep apnea, or renal disease per medical literature—see PTSD guide.
Secondary Conditions Grid
Common primaries for secondary HTN: PTSD, sleep apnea, diabetes.
Claim Timeline
Compile BP history
STR, VA treatment, private cardiology.
Document meds
Pharmacy printout proving continuous antihypertensive use.
Presumptive check
Agent Orange, PACT, Gulf—confirm eligibility categories.
File claim
Direct, secondary, or presumptive theory in box 14 remarks.
C&P vitals
If white-coat is an issue, bring home log to show contrast.
What Gets You Higher Ratings?
10% → 20–40%
Document predominant diastolic 110+ or systolic 200+ across multiple visits—not one isolated ER reading.
40% → 60%
Diastolic predominantly 130+ in treating records; cardiology letters reinforcing uncontrolled hypertension despite compliance.
Common Mistakes
FAQs
▸ Controlled on meds—still rated?
Often yes—10% minimum when history of 100+ diastolic and continuous medication per schedule; verify current regulatory wording.
▸ White coat hypertension?
Ambulatory BP monitoring or home logs help show true predominant pressures.
▸ Secondary to PTSD?
Many veterans file with a nexus citing chronic stress physiology—discuss with your treating clinician.
Cross-Links
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.