Rating guide · Cardiovascular
High Blood Pressure: A Claim Many Veterans Miss
High blood pressure is so common that veterans rarely think of it as a VA claim. But medication-controlled hypertension can still rate 10%, and for Agent Orange veterans the connection is now presumed.
- Rating levels
- The 10% minimum
- PACT Act presumptive
- Heart & kidney links
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Blood Pressure Rating Levels
2026 pay for a veteran with no dependents.
Controlled Today, Still Ratable
The 10% level includes veterans with a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more who now need continuous medication to keep it controlled. The key evidence is readings from before you started medication, so dig into older records.
The VA confirms hypertension with readings taken two or more times on at least three different days. Diastolic predominantly 90 or above, or systolic predominantly 160 or above with diastolic under 90, qualifies.
Agent Orange Veterans: Presumed Connected
Hypertension is now an Agent Orange presumptive. If you served in Vietnam or another qualifying location and period, such as certain bases in Thailand, Laos, parts of Cambodia, Guam, American Samoa or Johnston Atoll, the VA presumes the link. See our PACT Act page for the full list.
Hypertension can also be secondary to kidney disease, sleep apnea or PTSD, and in turn can lead to heart disease, kidney disease and stroke. Heart disease is rated separately.
Hypertension VA Rating: Common Questions
My pressure is normal on pills. Can I still get 10%?
Yes, if you have a history of diastolic readings predominantly 100 or more and need continuous medication.
Is hypertension presumptive for Vietnam veterans?
Yes, for veterans exposed to Agent Orange in qualifying locations and periods, under the PACT Act.
How does the VA confirm hypertension?
With readings taken two or more times on at least three different days.
Is heart disease included in the hypertension rating?
No. Hypertensive heart disease and other heart conditions are rated separately.
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