For many U.S. veterans, understanding which VA disability claims carry the most weight can make a major difference in monthly compensation and long-term financial stability. Some service-connected conditions are far more likely than others to receive ratings of 30 percent or higher, even when claimed on their own. These are often referred to as high-value VA claims.
According to Brian Reese, a high-value claim is one that “has a strong likelihood of being rated at 30 percent or more based on the VA’s own rating schedule and real-world outcomes.”
In this guide, we break down 10 high-value VA disability claims that are commonly rated at 30% or above, explain why the VA rates them higher, and show how they can impact your overall benefits in 2026.
Introduction to High-Value VA Disability Claims
A VA disability rating represents how much a service-connected condition affects a veteran’s ability to function in daily life and work. Ratings are assigned in increments of 10%, and higher ratings translate into higher tax-free monthly compensation.
High-value claims usually share three characteristics:
- Clear diagnostic criteria
- Strong links to military service or presumptive rules
- Symptoms that significantly impair work and daily functioning
As Department of Veterans Affairs applies updated rating standards, these claims remain some of the most impactful for veterans seeking compensation.
Key Features of High-Value VA Claims
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Common ratings of 30%+ | Increases combined disability faster |
| Higher maximum ratings | Some conditions reach 50%, 70%, or 100% |
| Clear medical evidence | Easier to document and prove |
| Work-life impact | Stronger justification for higher ratings |
| Often secondary or presumptive | Simplifies service connection |
The 10 High-Value VA Disability Claims Explained
1. Mental Health Conditions
Mental health conditions are among the highest-rated VA claims overall.
Common diagnoses include PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and adjustment disorders. The VA evaluates mental health based on occupational and social impairment, not just diagnosis.
“Mental health claims are frequently rated at 70% because they directly affect a veteran’s ability to function at work and in relationships,” says Brian Reese.
2. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is frequently rated at 50% when a CPAP machine is required. Veterans often succeed with sleep apnea claims filed as secondary conditions to PTSD, obesity, or facial injuries.
This condition is high value because the rating criteria are clear and objective.
3. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
CFS is rated based on how much fatigue restricts daily activities. Veterans with Gulf War service often qualify under presumptive rules.
“Chronic fatigue syndrome is one of the most underclaimed but high-paying VA conditions,” Reese notes.
4. Migraines (Headaches)
Migraines can be rated as high as 50% when they cause severe, prostrating attacks that interfere with employment.
Even a 30% rating for migraines can significantly boost a veteran’s combined disability percentage.
5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is capped at 30%, but that is precisely what makes it high value. Many veterans qualify for the maximum rating due to constant abdominal distress.
IBS is also a Gulf War presumptive condition, reducing the burden of proof.
6. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD ratings commonly reach 30% or 60%, especially when symptoms include difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or weight loss.
“GERD often flies under the radar, but it can be a major contributor to higher combined ratings,” Reese explains.
7. Radiculopathy (Sciatica)
Radiculopathy involves nerve pain radiating from the spine and can be rated separately for each limb.
Moderate radiculopathy often results in ratings of 30% or more per extremity, making it one of the fastest ways to increase a combined rating.
8. Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is commonly linked to diabetes, toxic exposure, or spinal injuries. Ratings can reach 80% depending on severity.
Veterans with symptoms in both legs or arms often receive especially high combined ratings.
9. Flat Feet (Pes Planus)
Flat feet may sound minor, but severe bilateral pes planus is rated up to 50%.
The VA considers pain, deformity, and limitations on standing or walking when assigning ratings.
10. VA Presumptive Conditions
Presumptive conditions are some of the easiest high-value claims to win. Veterans only need to prove service in a qualifying location and a current diagnosis.
Presumptive categories include Agent Orange exposure, burn pits, Camp Lejeune water contamination, and Gulf War illnesses.
Why These Claims Matter for Veterans?
High-value claims can:
- Rapidly increase combined disability ratings
- Open eligibility for additional benefits like TDIU or SMC
- Provide long-term financial security
- Reduce the need for multiple low-value claims
As Reese puts it, “One properly developed high-value claim can be worth more than five small ones combined.”
Comparison: High-Value Claims and Typical Ratings
| Condition | Typical Rating Range |
|---|---|
| Mental Health | 50% – 70% |
| Sleep Apnea | 30% – 50% |
| Chronic Fatigue Syndrome | 40% – 60% |
| Migraines | 30% – 50% |
| IBS | 30% |
| GERD | 30% – 60% |
| Radiculopathy | 30% – 70% |
| Peripheral Neuropathy | 30% – 80% |
| Flat Feet (Bilateral) | 30% – 50% |
| Presumptive Conditions | 30% – 100% |
Recent VA Rating Trends (2025–2026)
- Increased approvals for presumptive toxic exposure claims
- Higher average mental health ratings
- More secondary service connections approved
- Expanded recognition of functional impairment
Final Thought
Understanding high-value VA disability claims is one of the smartest moves a veteran can make. These 10 conditions consistently receive ratings of 30% or higher, making them powerful tools for increasing monthly compensation and long-term benefits.
If your service-connected condition affects your ability to work or live normally, there is a strong chance it qualifies as a high-value VA claim in 2026.
FAQs
What is a high-value VA disability claim?
A condition commonly rated at 30% or more on its own.
Can one high-value claim increase my combined rating significantly?
Yes, a single 50% or 70% rating can dramatically raise your total.
Are presumptive claims easier to win?
Yes, because service connection is automatically assumed.
Can I file multiple high-value claims at once?
Yes, and they are often rated separately.
Do high-value claims lead to more benefits?
Often yes, including higher pay and eligibility for programs like TDIU.
