★ Cardiovascular
Congestive Heart Failure VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.104 (DC 7020 cardiomyopathy; analogous codes by underlying etiology)
Overview
Cardiac diagnostic codes share a common rating structure based on METs and ejection fraction.
METs are typically estimated by exercise testing or interview when testing is contraindicated.
Diuretic dependency, hospitalization frequency, and EF measurement drive the rating.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: in-service onset or documented cardiac event.
- Secondary to hypertension, ischemic heart disease, sleep apnea, or PTSD-related metabolic effects.
- Presumptive (Agent Orange) for ischemic heart disease leading to CHF.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.104 (DC 7020 cardiomyopathy; analogous codes by underlying etiology)
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Workload of 5–7 METs causes dyspnea/fatigue, or LV dysfunction with EF 50–59%. |
| 60% | More than one acute CHF episode in past year, or workload 3–5 METs causes symptoms, or EF 30–49%. |
| 100% | Chronic CHF, workload ≤3 METs causes symptoms, or EF <30%. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Echocardiogram with EF.
- Stress test or METs estimate.
- Hospitalization records for acute CHF.
- Cardiology notes and medication list.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Congestive Heart Failure:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Congestive Heart Failure claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.