★ Neurological
Restless Legs Syndrome VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.124a (rated by analogy)
Overview
RLS is commonly diagnosed alongside sleep apnea, PTSD, and peripheral neuropathy.
Because there's no specific DC, expect ratings of 0%, 10%, or 30% by analogy.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Secondary: very common as secondary to sleep apnea, PTSD, diabetes, or kidney disease.
- Direct: in-service sleep clinic documentation is rare but persuasive.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.124a (rated by analogy)
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Mild, infrequent symptoms (rated by analogy). |
| 10% | Moderate; symptoms requiring medication for control. |
| 30% | Severe; daily symptoms significantly disrupting sleep and function. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Sleep study or polysomnogram (PLMS findings).
- Neurology specialist notes.
- Medication history (dopamine agonists, gabapentinoids).
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Restless Legs Syndrome:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Restless Legs Syndrome 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.