VA Disability Rating for Varicose Veins
Rated 0–100% based on edema persistence, stasis pigmentation, ulceration. Per leg.
Varicose veins (DC 7120) are rated per extremity and combined under VA bilateral-factor math. Ratings escalate as edema becomes persistent, stasis pigmentation appears, and ulceration develops. Compression-stocking dependence + aching after standing = baseline 10%.
Rating tiers + 2026 monthly compensation
| Rating | Monthly (2026, single vet) | Criteria (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | — | Asymptomatic visible varicosities. |
| 10% | $180.42 | Intermittent edema or aching/fatigue in leg after prolonged standing or walking; relieved by elevation or compression hosiery. |
| 20% | $356.66 | Persistent edema, incompletely relieved by elevation, with or without beginning stasis pigmentation or eczema. |
| 40% | $795.84 | Persistent edema and stasis pigmentation or eczema, with or without intermittent ulceration. |
| 60% | $1,435.02 | Persistent edema or subcutaneous induration, stasis pigmentation or eczema, AND persistent ulceration. |
| 100% | $3,938.58 | Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest. |
Dollar amounts reflect the 2.5% COLA effective 2025-12-01 for single veterans with no dependents. Add spouse + children for 30%+ ratings via the estimator.
What this means in dollars
- →At 10%: $180.42/mo · $2,165/year, tax-free
- →At 20%: $356.66/mo · $4,280/year, tax-free
- →At 40%: $795.84/mo · $9,550/year, tax-free
- →At 60%: $1,435.02/mo · $17,220/year, tax-free
- →At 100%: $3,938.58/mo · $47,263/year, tax-free
How to get rated for varicose veins
- Vascular ultrasound (Doppler) confirming venous insufficiency.
- Photos documenting edema, pigmentation, ulcers.
- Compression-stocking prescription.
- File EACH leg separately — bilateral involvement gets a 10% bilateral-factor bonus.
Common secondary conditions
- +Stasis dermatitis
- +Cellulitis
- +DVT history
File these separately. VA rates each service-connected condition independently and combines them via § 4.25.
Nexus tips
- Prolonged standing in service (sentry duty, MP, medical, MOS-specific tasks) supports the nexus.
- In-service complaints of leg swelling or pain are key STR evidence.
Frequently asked
My varicose veins are mostly cosmetic. Should I file?
If you have any aching/fatigue after prolonged standing, the 10% threshold is met under § 4.59 painful-symptom doctrine. File. Visible varicosities alone are 0% but get the condition on record for future increases.
Ready to act on this?
Get a full rating estimate across your conditions, or draft the nexus letter your doctor needs to sign.
Related conditions
This page summarizes public rating criteria from 38 CFR Part 4. It is not legal or medical advice. Actual VA ratings depend on C&P exam findings, records review, and rater discretion.