Please note that this blog has been updated since it was published in May 2025. For the most up to date discussion please visit our blog post from June 2026 at this link .
If you're a veteran dealing with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and you've been thinking about filing a VA claim—or increasing an existing one—you’ve probably heard the buzz: “The VA is changing how sleep apnea is rated.”
And yes, it’s true... sort of.
What’s the Real Deal?
Let’s clear the air. The VA has not changed the rating criteria for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The overhaul of the respiratory rating schedule was first published as a proposed rule on February 15, 2022 and revised in a supplemental proposed rule on September 12, 2024. No final rule has been published and no effective date has been set, so the criteria in 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6847 remain in force today.
The current system is still in place, but here’s the catch: changes have been proposed.
That means: if you're planning to file, now is the time.
If you would like to read a separate blog that dissects currently proposed legislation, visit this link .
How Sleep Apnea is Rated Right Now
Here’s a quick breakdown of the current VA rating system:
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0% – You’ve been diagnosed, but there are no symptoms or treatment needed
-
30% – You’re dealing with daytime fatigue even with treatment
-
50% – You need a CPAP or other breathing device
-
100% – You’re facing chronic respiratory failure or other serious complications
What the VA Might Change (But Hasn’t Yet)
The proposed updates look a bit different:
-
0% – Diagnosed, but no symptoms or treatment
-
10% – Using a CPAP with ongoing fatigue or other functional issues
-
50% – CPAP required, but it doesn’t work well or can’t be used because of another condition
-
100% – Chronic respiratory failure or very severe complications
Why This Matters
These proposed changes could drastically affect how much you qualify for—especially:
- The 30% rating for persistent sleepiness might disappear
- The 50% rating would become harder to get (you'd need to show your CPAP isn’t working or can’t be used)
- A new 10% category may pay far less than many veterans currently receive
So if you're sitting on a diagnosis—or even symptoms— now is the time to act before the rules get stricter.
Let’s Lock in Your Rating While You Still Can
At Brightview Psychiatry Solutions, we’ve helped hundreds of veterans like you get the documentation they need. Our nexus letters are clear, medically sound, and tailored to highlight how your OSA is connected to things like:
- PTSD and other mental health conditions
- Allergic Rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Weight gain
- Other service-related issues
You don’t have to navigate the VA system alone.
Here’s Your Next Step
Book your FREE phone consultation and find out how we can help you submit a strong claim while the current system is still in place.
📞 Or call us directly: 919-849-8617
We’ll walk you through everything—no pressure, just real answers.
Don’t Miss This Window
There’s still time, but it’s ticking. Once the new rules go into effect, the path to compensation may get harder.
Let’s get your claim submitted the right way—now.
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