Sleep apnea VA disability:
ratings, evidence and next steps.
Understand the rating criteria, organize supporting records, and find official help with your claim.
GrantsHubUSA · Independent editorial guide
- Diagnostic code
- DC 6847
- Rating framework
- 38 CFR § 4.97
- Key consideration
- Treatment needed, such as a CPAP
Overview
How VA evaluates sleep apnea.
VA rates sleep apnea under DC 6847 based on symptoms and treatment. Under the current rule, needing a breathing assistance device such as a CPAP machine meets the 50% level.
VA proposed changes to these criteria in 2022, but as of this update no final rule has taken effect. The service connection question, direct or secondary, is often the harder part of the claim.
A diagnosis alone does not establish a particular rating.
Sleep apnea rating criteria, at a glance.
The current rating levels under DC 6847.
| Rating | Criteria in brief |
|---|---|
| 0% | No symptoms, but a documented sleep disorder breathing condition. |
| 30% | Persistent daytime hypersomnolence (excessive sleepiness). |
| 50% | Requires a breathing assistance device such as a continuous airway pressure (CPAP) machine. |
| 100% | Chronic respiratory failure with carbon dioxide retention or cor pulmonale, or requires a tracheostomy. |
Source: 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6847
These summaries are not the full legal criteria or a self-assessment tool.VA decides the rating from the evidence. Read the full regulation text at the source link.
Build a clear evidence record.
- Sleep studyA sleep study (polysomnogram) confirming the diagnosis.
- Treatment recordsRecords of a CPAP or other breathing device prescription.
- Service treatment recordsAny in-service sleep, breathing or related complaints.
- Statements from othersPeople who noticed snoring, breathing pauses or daytime sleepiness.
- Medical opinionIf claiming as secondary, a clinician's opinion on the link to the service-connected condition.
Preparing for a C&P exam
- 1Follow the instructions in your appointment notice, and call the exam provider if you need to reschedule.
- 2Describe symptoms honestly, including how often they happen, how long they last, and changes over time.
- 3Explain the effects on work, relationships and everyday activities, including your worst days.
Common pitfalls to avoid.
- No sleep studyVA needs a sleep study that confirms the diagnosis.
- Missed appointmentsContact the exam provider before the date if you cannot attend.
- No link explainedShow how the condition relates to service or to a service-connected disability.
Questions about sleep apnea claims.
No. VA first decides whether the condition is service-connected, then rates it based on the evidence of how it affects you. A diagnosis alone does not set a rating.
VA compares the evidence, including the exam report and your records, with the criteria in 38 CFR § 4.97. When the evidence falls between two levels, VA assigns the higher one if the disability more nearly matches it (38 CFR § 4.7).
Read your appointment notice, bring a list of medications and treatment, and be ready to describe how often symptoms happen, how long they last, and how they affect work, relationships and daily activities. If you cannot attend, contact the exam provider before the appointment.
VA's directory lists accredited attorneys, claims agents and Veterans Service Organization representatives. Help from a Veterans Service Organization is free.
Check the original guidance.
This guide explains published information. It does not replace medical care or advice from an accredited claims professional.
Make your next step a clear one.
Explore more conditions, or use the VA pay calculator to plan ahead.