★ Cardiovascular
Varicose Veins VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7120
Overview
Varicose veins are rated per leg, then combined under the bilateral factor if both legs are involved.
Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest is the maximum 100% level (per leg).
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: documented in-service onset.
- Common in veterans with extended standing duty.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7120
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Asymptomatic palpable or visible varicose veins. |
| 10% | Intermittent edema of extremity or aching/fatigue after prolonged standing/walking. |
| 20% | Persistent edema, incompletely relieved by elevation; with or without beginning stasis pigmentation/eczema. |
| 40% | Persistent edema and stasis pigmentation/eczema, with or without intermittent ulceration. |
| 60% | Persistent edema, subcutaneous induration, stasis pigmentation/eczema, and persistent ulceration. |
| 100% | Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Vascular study (Doppler ultrasound).
- Photographs of skin changes.
- Documentation of any ulceration or hospitalization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Varicose Veins 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.