Sleep Apnea
Has the VA changed the rating criteria for obstructive sleep apnea?
For the latest on where the rulemaking stands, read our newer article: Proposed sleep apnea rating changes, June 2026.
If you are a veteran seeking service connection or an increased rating for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you may have heard that the VA rating criteria were going to change. Understandably, this has caused concern for veterans currently navigating the claims process.
Current status: no change yet
As of August 10, 2026, the VA has NOT changed the rating schedule for obstructive sleep apnea. Proposed changes have been circulated, but no final rule has been implemented, and the current criteria remain in effect.
Because a final rule could be published with limited notice, the months ahead remain an important window for veterans preparing or considering a sleep apnea claim.
Not sure whether your sleep apnea can be service connected?
A free phone consultation with Dr. Allen's team to review your records, your theory of service connection, and whether a nexus letter fits your case.
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Current VA rating schedule for obstructive sleep apnea
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Diagnosed OSA with no symptoms and no treatment required. |
| 30% | Persistent daytime sleepiness despite treatment. |
| 50% | Requires use of a CPAP or other breathing assistance device. |
| 100% | Chronic respiratory failure or other severe complications. |
Proposed, not yet enacted, rating schedule
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | No symptoms and no treatment required. |
| 10% | Requires CPAP or other breathing assistance device, with significant daytime sleepiness or other functional impairment. |
| 50% | CPAP or assistive device required, but treatment is ineffective or cannot be used because of another medical condition. |
| 100% | Chronic respiratory failure or severe complications. |
Key differences veterans should know
The 30% rating for persistent daytime sleepiness despite treatment would be eliminated. The 50% rating would carry a higher threshold, requiring that CPAP treatment be ineffective or medically contraindicated. A new 10% level would be added, but it would pay considerably less than the 30% and 50% ratings many veterans receive today.
What does this mean for you?
If you have sleep apnea symptoms or a diagnosis, and especially if you use a CPAP or similar device, it is worth filing or pursuing an increase while the current criteria are still in place. The proposed revisions would make the 30% and 50% levels harder to reach. Nothing here guarantees any particular VA outcome, but a well-documented file reviewed under the current schedule is generally the stronger position.
Secure your review under the current schedule
Dr. Allen is a licensed psychiatrist, a former VA Compensation and Pension examiner, and a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Book a free phone consultation to talk through your case.
Free call. No obligation.
How Brightview helps
Brightview prepares evidence-based sleep apnea nexus letters for veterans, including claims involving obstructive sleep apnea secondary to PTSD, psychiatric conditions, medication-related weight gain, and other service-connected disabilities.
Dr. Jessica Allen is a licensed psychiatrist, former VA C&P examiner, and member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). Her background allows her to evaluate these claims with an understanding of both the medical evidence and the VA disability process.
If your claim was already denied, see denied VA claims to learn what a rebuttal medical opinion may address.
Related pages
Talk through your sleep apnea claim
A free phone consultation with Dr. Allen's team to review your records, your theory of service connection, and whether a nexus letter fits your case.
Free call. No obligation.
Educational information only. This article is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a treatment relationship. Reading it does not establish a physician–patient relationship with Dr. Allen or Brightview Psychiatry Solutions PLLC. No outcome in any VA claim is promised or implied; the VA determines service connection and assigns all disability evaluations. Veterans should consult their own treating providers regarding medical care and an accredited representative, agent, or attorney regarding claims. If you are in crisis, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7: dial 988 and press 1, or text 838255.