VASRD 5007 · Musculoskeletal

Rheumatoid Arthritis VA Disability Rating

An autoimmune disorder that attacks the joints, causing pain and swelling.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
100%Severe RA that leaves you unable to function or work.
60%RA that seriously limits daily movement and causes fatigue.
40%RA flares that disrupt life but don’t totally disable you.
20%RA flares a couple of times a year.

How the VA Evaluates Rheumatoid Arthritis

Diagnosed by rheumatologist with evidence of persistent inflammation, joint damage, and blood tests showing RA markers (RF, anti-CCP).

Approval rate

High – especially with rheumatology support and lab results.

Annual service-connected

6,900 veterans

Average rating

40%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Rheumatologist diagnosis and treatment history
  • •Blood tests showing RF or anti-CCP antibodies
  • •X-rays or MRIs of joint damage

Strategy Tips

  • •Submit lab tests with your claim
  • •Include full range-of-motion findings
  • •Show how symptoms impact work and life

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Failure to include labs and rheumatology notes
  • •Mislabeling as osteoarthritis instead of RA

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Lack of flare-up documentation
  • •Confusing diagnosis with non-inflammatory arthritis

Onset Patterns

  • •Usually develops between ages 30–50
  • •Starts with small joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Rheumatoid Arthritis. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Anemia

    Chronic inflammation from RA can reduce red blood cell production.

  • Osteoporosis

    Steroid treatment and inflammation can weaken bones.

Common questions about Rheumatoid Arthritis

Is Rheumatoid Arthritis a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Rheumatoid Arthritis under VASRD diagnostic code 5007 (Musculoskeletal). An autoimmune disorder that attacks the joints, causing pain and swelling.
What VA disability rating can I get for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Possible VA ratings for Rheumatoid Arthritis are 100%, 60%, 40%, 20%. Examples: 100% — Severe RA that leaves you unable to function or work.; 60% — RA that seriously limits daily movement and causes fatigue.; 40% — RA flares that disrupt life but don’t totally disable you..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The average awarded rating for Rheumatoid Arthritis is 40%. Roughly 6,900 veterans are service-connected for Rheumatoid Arthritis each year. Typical approval likelihood: High – especially with rheumatology support and lab results..
What evidence helps prove Rheumatoid Arthritis for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Rheumatoid Arthritis claim includes: Rheumatologist diagnosis and treatment history; Blood tests showing RF or anti-CCP antibodies; X-rays or MRIs of joint damage.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Common pitfalls when filing for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Lack of flare-up documentation; Confusing diagnosis with non-inflammatory arthritis.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Rheumatoid Arthritis include: Anemia, Osteoporosis. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Rheumatoid Arthritis combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

Open the calculator