The Truth About VA Disability Ratings for Chronic Pain — And How to Maximize Yours

For thousands of U.S. veterans, chronic pain is more than just discomfort, it’s a daily struggle that can interfere with work, relationships, and quality of life. But here’s the surprising part: the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) doesn’t have a dedicated diagnostic code for chronic pain alone. So how can veterans get the compensation they deserve?

Let’s break it down.

No Specific Code? No Problem — You Can Still Qualify

Even though chronic pain doesn’t have its own code in the VA’s disability system, veterans can still receive benefits by connecting the pain to a service-related injury or condition. That means if you hurt your back, knees, or even developed nerve pain during your military service, you can file a claim based on that underlying issue.

You’ll need to show three things:

1. A current diagnosis — Even if it’s just chronic pain without a clear source.

2. Proof something happened during service — Like an injury, strain, or illness.

3. A “nexus” — This is medical proof linking your current condition to your military service.

If your chronic pain is tied to one of these, the VA is required to evaluate it , even without a specific code.

How VA Determines Your Rating for Pain

Here’s where it gets important: your disability rating isn’t based on the pain alone, but how it limits your ability to function. For example, chronic back pain that makes it difficult to stand, walk, or work could result in a higher rating. In some cases, ratings can reach up to 100% if the pain is severe and disabling enough.

Plus, there’s more: if your chronic pain leads to other issues—like depression, anxiety, or insomnia—you can file for secondary service-connected disabilities. These can add to your overall rating and increase your monthly compensation.

How to File for Chronic Pain VA Disability

Filing a VA claim may sound complicated, but it comes down to gathering the right paperwork and following the right steps:

• Step 1: Gather evidence. Medical records, military service documents, and personal statements go a long way.

• Step 2: Fill out VA Form 21-526EZ. This is the main form to apply for disability benefits.

• Step 3: Submit your claim. You can do it online at VA.gov, by mail, or with help from a VSO (Veterans Service Organization).

• Step 4: Attend your C&P exam. This is a medical evaluation the VA uses to assess your condition. Don’t miss it, and be honest about how the pain affects your life.

Denied? You Still Have Options

If the VA denies your claim (and many get denied the first time), don’t panic. You have multiple appeal options, such as:

• Filing a supplemental claim with new evidence.

• Requesting a higher-level review by a senior reviewer.

• Appealing to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.

Each of these steps gives you another shot to present your case and potentially boost your benefits.

The Bottom Line: Chronic Pain Is Real — And So Is Your Right to Compensation

Even without a specific diagnostic code, chronic pain can and should be compensated, especially when it stems from your military service. Don’t let red tape stop you from getting what you deserve.

If your pain is affecting your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy life, the VA should know about it—and you have every right to make a claim. For extra help, veterans are encouraged to work with experienced claims agents or accredited attorneys.

And if you’re wondering how some veterans are getting 100% VA ratings for chronic pain, check out this helpful video that walks through the entire process.

Because at the end of the day, your pain is real—and so is your right to get the benefits you earned.