VA Sleep Apnea Claim Guide
How to file a VA sleep apnea claim, the full rating ladder from 0% to 100%, why a CPAP prescription alone generally secures 50%, and the secondary conditions worth claiming alongside it.
Sleep apnea is rated under diagnostic code 6847. Persistent daytime sleepiness generally supports 30%, a prescribed CPAP machine generally results in a 50% rating regardless of tolerance, and 100% requires chronic respiratory failure or cor pulmonale.
Sleep apnea is one of the most-claimed VA conditions and also one of the highest-value, because the 50% rating attaches to anyone with a prescribed CPAP machine — regardless of how well they actually tolerate using it. That single fact makes the sleep study and prescription the two most important pieces of evidence in the entire claim.
Proving Service Connection
You need a current diagnosis, evidence of an in-service event or onset, and a medical nexus tying the two. Many veterans miss the third piece.
How It's Rated
Rating Levels
- 0% — diagnosed but asymptomatic
- 30% — persistent daytime hypersomnolence (excessive sleepiness)
- 50% — requires use of a breathing assistance device (CPAP)
- 100% — chronic respiratory failure with carbon dioxide retention, cor pulmonale, or requiring a tracheostomy
Evidence That Helps
- A sleep study (polysomnogram, either in-lab or an approved home test) confirming diagnosis and severity
- CPAP prescription and compliance records from your provider
- A nexus letter if claiming sleep apnea as secondary to another service-connected condition
- A lay statement from a spouse or partner describing observed snoring, gasping, or breathing pauses during sleep
Have PTSD and think your sleep apnea might be connected?
See Sleep Apnea Secondary to PTSDRelated Secondary Conditions
- Hypertension
- Depression and anxiety
- GERD
CPAP Prescription Is the Key to 50%
Once a provider prescribes CPAP for your diagnosed sleep apnea, that prescription itself generally supports the 50% rating — the VA doesn't require you to demonstrate consistent nightly compliance or perfect tolerance of the device. Keep the prescription and any follow-up records showing continued need for the device on file.
Sleep Apnea as a Secondary Condition
Sleep apnea is frequently secondary to PTSD, weight gain from psychiatric medication, or other service-connected conditions affecting sleep architecture. If you're already service-connected for PTSD or another relevant condition, a nexus letter addressing the connection to your later sleep apnea diagnosis can support a secondary claim even without an in-service breathing complaint.
Frequently asked questions
Conclusion
If you have a current diagnosis and an in-service link, a sleep apnea claim is worth filing. Educational only. Not legal advice.
Have PTSD and think your sleep apnea might be connected?
See Sleep Apnea Secondary to PTSD