If you’re a veteran wondering what kind of conditions qualify for VA disability—and how much compensation you might receive—you’re not alone. With so many changes happening, especially in 2025, it’s hard to keep track. So let’s break it down simply and clearly.
This is your full guide to the updated VA disability conditions list and rating system as of May 2025—no jargon, no confusion, just the facts you need.
First Things First: What Is VA Disability Compensation?
VA disability compensation is a monthly, tax-free payment for veterans who got injured or developed health conditions as a result of their military service. The amount you receive depends on the severity of your condition, which is measured in percentages from 0% to 100%.
Even if a condition seems “mild,” you could still be eligible for benefits—so it’s worth checking.
What Conditions Qualify in 2025?
The list of service-connected disabilities is long, and the VA keeps it up to date. Here’s a look at the major categories currently recognized as of May 2025:
Mental Health Conditions
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PTSD
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Bipolar disorder
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OCD
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Schizophrenia
Mental health claims are among the most common, and the VA has made recent updates to how these are rated (more on that below).
Musculoskeletal Disorders
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Back and neck injuries
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Joint problems
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Arthritis
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Limited range of motion
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Fractures that never healed right
Respiratory Disorders
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Asthma
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COPD
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Sleep apnea (new rules here, too)
Cardiovascular Conditions
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High blood pressure
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Heart disease
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Arrhythmias
Neurological Issues
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Migraines
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Epilepsy
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Hearing & Vision Loss
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Tinnitus (ringing in ears)
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Hearing loss
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Vision impairment
Other Recognized Conditions
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Diabetes
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GERD (acid reflux)
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
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Skin conditions (eczema, dermatitis)
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Kidney and urinary issues
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Sexual dysfunction
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Reproductive health problems
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Exposure-related illnesses (like Agent Orange or burn pits)
You can also get compensation for secondary conditions—things that happen because of or are made worse by another service-connected issue.
What’s Changed in 2025?
Here’s what’s different now, and how it might affect your claim:
1. Mental Health Ratings Are More Focused on Symptoms
The VA now rates mental health conditions based on how they affect daily life (rather than just how they affect work). This can lead to more accurate—and often higher—disability ratings for veterans dealing with emotional or psychological struggles.
2. Sleep Apnea Ratings Dropped
If you use a CPAP machine, the automatic 50% rating is gone. Now, many veterans will only get 10%—unless the condition severely impacts daily functioning.
3. Tinnitus No Longer Gets a Standalone Rating
Tinnitus used to be a guaranteed 10% disability. Not anymore. It now only qualifies if it’s part of another condition or significantly impacts life.
4. Toxic Exposure List Expanded
Veterans exposed to toxic substances (like burn pits or Agent Orange) now have more conditions that automatically qualify as “presumptive.” This means you don’t have to fight to prove the link—they’ll assume it was caused by your service.
VA Disability Rating and Payment Chart (Effective May 2025)
Your disability rating (from 10% to 100%) determines your monthly payment. The VA also added a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment in 2025.
Here’s a quick look at the monthly pay:
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10% — $175.51
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20% — $346.95
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30% to 100% — Ranges up to $3,800+
(More if you have dependents)
These payments are tax-free at both state and federal levels.
When Will You Get Paid in May 2025?
VA disability payments usually go out on the first business day of the following month. But since June 1, 2025 falls on a Sunday, the VA will pay out on Friday, May 30 instead.
So if you’re expecting a check in May—it’ll arrive before the weekend.
Not Sure Where You Stand?
If you’re not sure if your condition qualifies or how to file a claim, don’t go it alone. VA-accredited reps or veterans’ law firms can help you figure it all out—and increase your chances of getting approved.
Whether you’re just starting a claim or considering an appeal, 2025 is a big year for VA disability changes. With more clarity in ratings and broader condition coverage, now’s the time to take action.
