Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is the most commonly service-connected mental health condition among U.S. veterans and one of the most misunderstood when it comes to VA disability ratings.
Many veterans assume the VA assigns PTSD ratings based only on a diagnosis. That’s not true.
The VA rates PTSD based on how symptoms affect your work, relationships, and daily functioning, not simply whether you have PTSD.
“PTSD claims are won or lost on functional impairment not labels,” explained by Brian Reese, VA disability expert, said while analyzing VA mental health rating decisions.
This article breaks down the VA PTSD rating chart, explains how ratings are decided, shows 2026 PTSD pay rates, outlines major rule changes coming by 2026, and gives practical strategies for your PTSD C&P exam.
What Are VA Ratings for PTSD?
The VA rates PTSD under Diagnostic Code (DC) 9411 in the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD). Ratings range from 0% to 100%, based on occupational and social impairment.
VA PTSD Rating Levels
- 0%
- 10%
- 30%
- 50%
- 70%
- 100%
The rating is not determined by how traumatic your stressor was, but how severely PTSD symptoms impact your ability to function.
VA PTSD Rating Chart: Symptoms & Functional Impact
0% PTSD Rating
- Symptoms exist but do not interfere with work or social functioning
- Mild symptoms or full remission
10% PTSD Rating
- Mild or transient symptoms
- Occasional sleep issues or anxiety
- Symptoms controlled by treatment
30% PTSD Rating
- Occasional decrease in work efficiency
- Chronic sleep impairment
- Mild memory loss
- Periodic panic attacks
50% PTSD Rating
- Reduced reliability and productivity
- Frequent panic attacks
- Impaired judgment
- Difficulty maintaining work and social relationships
70% PTSD Rating (Most Common Rating)
- Deficiencies in most areas (work, family, judgment, mood)
- Suicidal ideation
- Near-continuous panic or depression
- Impaired impulse control
- Neglect of hygiene
- Inability to maintain effective relationships
“The 70% PTSD rating is common because it reflects real-world breakdowns in work and relationships,” explained by Brian Reese, said while reviewing PTSD rating trends.
100% PTSD Rating
- Total occupational and social impairment
- Persistent hallucinations or delusions
- Disorientation
- Memory loss for names, occupation, or self
- Persistent danger to self or others
2026 VA PTSD Pay Chart (No Dependents)
| PTSD Rating | Monthly Pay (2026) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
Rates reflect the 2.8% COLA effective December 1, 2025.
“Because VA compensation is tax-free, every dollar of a PTSD rating increase goes directly to the veteran,” explained by Brian Reese, said while discussing financial impact.
How the VA Determines Your PTSD Rating?
The VA evaluates PTSD claims using four required elements:
1. DSM-5 PTSD Diagnosis
A valid PTSD diagnosis must conform to DSM-5 standards and come from a qualified mental health provider.
“A DSM-5-compliant diagnosis is the foundation of every PTSD claim,” explained by Brian Reese, said while advising veterans on evidence requirements.
2. In-Service Stressor Event
The veteran must show a traumatic event during service involving fear of death, injury, or sexual violence.
VA Form 21-0781 is commonly used to document stressors.
3. Medical Nexus
A medical opinion must link PTSD to service (“at least as likely as not”).
Independent psychological evaluations are often critical for veterans long out of service.
4. Severity of Symptoms
The VA rates PTSD based on:
- Frequency
- Severity
- Duration
- Occupational and social impairment
PTSD Symptoms Used by VA Raters (DBQ Criteria)
The VA evaluates PTSD using 31 symptoms, including:
- Suicidal ideation
- Panic attacks
- Sleep impairment
- Memory loss
- Depression and anxiety
- Impaired judgment
- Obsessional rituals
- Neglect of hygiene
- Hallucinations
“Veterans often underrate their own symptoms VA raters won’t,” explained by Brian Reese, said while coaching veterans for exams.
PTSD C&P Exam: How to Prepare Correctly
The C&P exam heavily influences your rating.
Purpose of the PTSD C&P Exam
- Confirm DSM-5 diagnosis
- Validate stressor (for initial claims)
- Assess symptom severity and functional loss
Key Strategy: Be Uncomfortably Vulnerable
Do not describe your best days.
“The VA rates you on your worst days not the days you’re coping well,” explained by Brian Reese, said while outlining exam strategy.
Discuss Occupational & Social Impairment
Explain:
- Job changes or job loss
- Missed work
- Relationship breakdowns
- Social isolation
Expect Detailed Questions
- Frequency of panic attacks
- Suicidal thoughts
- Sleep issues
- Anger control
- Memory problems
Is the VA Changing How It Rates PTSD?
Yes. By late 2026, VA mental health ratings are expected to change significantly.
Key Proposed Changes
| Change | Impact |
|---|---|
| Domain-based evaluation | Focus on functional ability, not symptom lists |
| Minimum rating raised | No more 0% mental health ratings |
| Work restriction removed | Veterans can work and still receive 100% |
| Easier access to high ratings | Less rigid criteria |
“The new mental health criteria are far more veteran-friendly,” explained by Brian Reese, said while reviewing proposed rule changes.
Why Understanding the PTSD Rating Chart Matters?
Knowing the PTSD rating chart helps you:
- Describe symptoms correctly
- Avoid underreporting
- Prepare for exams strategically
- Protect your effective date
PTSD claims are not about toughness they’re about accuracy.
FAQs
What is the most common PTSD rating?
70% is the most common VA PTSD rating.
Can I work and still receive 100% PTSD?
Under current rules it’s limited, but upcoming changes remove this restriction.
Does the VA rate PTSD by diagnosis alone?
No. Ratings depend on functional impairment.
Can PTSD be rated higher over time?
Yes. Veterans can file for an increase if symptoms worsen.
Is PTSD compensation taxable?
No. VA disability compensation is tax-free.
