Insomnia is a common struggle for veterans, often linked to service-related stress, PTSD, chronic pain, or other mental health disorders. According to the Sleep Foundation, about 25% of military service members suffer from insomnia. Sleep deprivation can severely impact daily life, making it difficult to concentrate, maintain relationships, or even hold a job.
The good news? If insomnia is connected to military service, veterans may qualify for VA disability compensation. But how does the VA rate insomnia, and what does it take to get approved? Let’s break it down.
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Ratings
The VA does not have a specific diagnostic code for insomnia. Instead, it rates the condition under the Schedule of Ratings for Mental Disorders based on the level of occupational and social impairment.
If insomnia is linked to PTSD, depression, or anxiety, it is often included in the rating for those conditions rather than rated separately.
However, if insomnia results from a different service-connected medical issue, like chronic pain, the VA may grant a separate rating under mental health disorders.
Here’s how the VA assigns disability ratings for insomnia:
| Rating (%) | Impairment Level |
|---|---|
| 100% | Total occupational and social impairment |
| 70% | Impairment in most areas (work, relationships, mood, judgment) |
| 50% | Reduced reliability and productivity |
| 30% | Occasional decrease in work efficiency |
| 10% | Mild symptoms that intermittently affect work or social life |
| 0% | Diagnosed but no significant impairment |
Eligibility
To qualify for VA disability benefits for insomnia, veterans must prove that their condition is service-connected. This requires:
- A current medical diagnosis of insomnia
- Evidence of an in-service event, injury, or illness linked to insomnia
- A medical nexus (doctor’s opinion) connecting insomnia to service
For Gulf War veterans, the VA presumes sleep disturbances are service-connected, making it easier for them to qualify.
Secondary
If insomnia results from another service-connected condition, such as PTSD, depression, or chronic pain, it may qualify as a secondary condition. In this case, veterans may receive compensation for both conditions separately, depending on how each affects their ability to function.
Appeals
If a veteran believes their rating is too low or their condition has worsened, they can appeal or request an increase. A successful appeal could result in a higher rating and additional compensation.
Seeking Help
Navigating the VA disability system can be overwhelming. Veterans struggling to secure proper benefits for insomnia should consider seeking professional assistance, such as a VA-accredited attorney or veterans’ service organization, to strengthen their claim.
FAQs
Can insomnia be a VA disability?
Yes, if it’s linked to military service or a service-connected condition.
How much compensation do veterans get for insomnia?
It depends on the VA rating, ranging from 0% to 100%.
Is insomnia rated separately from PTSD?
Usually, insomnia is included in the PTSD rating unless it’s from another cause.
How do I prove my insomnia is service-connected?
You need a diagnosis, in-service event evidence, and a doctor’s opinion.
Can I appeal my VA insomnia rating?
Yes, you can request a rating increase if your condition worsens.
