Veterans with Raynaud's syndrome can receive VA disability compensation ranging from 10% to 100% under Diagnostic Code 7117, with the rating determined by how often characteristic attacks occur and whether digital ulcers or amputation have developed. Raynaud's syndrome is the secondary form of the condition, meaning it developed as a result of an underlying disease such as lupus, scleroderma, or another autoimmune disorder, and this distinction matters for how the VA rates and connects the condition.
This guide covers the current 2026 rating criteria under 38 CFR 4.104, exact monthly compensation for each rating tier, how Raynaud's gets service-connected, the difference between Raynaud's syndrome and Raynaud's disease for rating purposes, and the steps to file a claim.
VA Rating Criteria for Raynaud's Syndrome Under Diagnostic Code 7117
The VA rates Raynaud's syndrome under 38 CFR 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7117, part of the cardiovascular system portion of the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities. The current criteria took effect November 14, 2021, following a final rule that updated the cardiovascular rating schedule to reflect current medical terminology.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|
| 10% | Characteristic attacks occurring one to three times a week |
| 20% | Characteristic attacks occurring four to six times a week |
| 40% | Characteristic attacks occurring at least daily |
| 60% | Two or more digital ulcers and a history of characteristic attacks |
| 100% | Two or more digital ulcers plus auto-amputation of one or more digits and a history of characteristic attacks |
A note attached to the diagnostic code defines a characteristic attack as sequential color changes of the digits of one or more extremities lasting minutes to hours, sometimes accompanied by pain and paresthesias, and triggered by exposure to cold or by emotional upset. This is the classic white-to-blue-to-red color progression associated with Raynaud's episodes.
Unlike many musculoskeletal conditions, Raynaud's syndrome under DC 7117 can reach a schedular maximum of 100%, which sets it apart from many other cardiovascular and gastrointestinal codes that cap out at 30% or 60%.
Raynaud's Syndrome vs. Raynaud's Disease: Why the Distinction Matters
The VA rating schedule separates Raynaud's into two forms, and this distinction affects both the diagnostic code used and the rating outcome.
Raynaud's syndrome (secondary Raynaud's phenomenon) is rated under DC 7117. This form develops as a complication of an underlying disease process, most commonly an autoimmune or connective tissue disorder such as lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjogren's syndrome. Because it is tied to an underlying disease, secondary Raynaud's tends to be more severe and can progress to tissue damage, which is why DC 7117 includes ratings as high as 60% and 100%.
Raynaud's disease (primary Raynaud's phenomenon) is a separate condition with no identifiable underlying cause and generally has a milder course with few long-term complications. Primary Raynaud's is evaluated differently and does not carry the same maximum rating potential as DC 7117, since the medical evidence does not support tissue loss or ulceration in the same way.
When filing a claim, make sure your medical records specify whether your diagnosis is primary or secondary Raynaud's, since this affects which criteria the VA rater applies.
2026 VA Disability Pay for Raynaud's Syndrome Ratings
VA compensation rates increased 2.8% effective December 1, 2025, reflecting the annual cost-of-living adjustment. The table below shows 2026 monthly payments for a veteran with no dependents.
| Rating | Monthly Pay (Veteran Alone) |
|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
At the 10% and 20% levels, payment is fixed regardless of dependents. Starting at 30% and above, the VA adds a monthly amount for a spouse, children, or dependent parents. For example, a veteran rated at 40% with a spouse and no children receives approximately $882.84 per month in 2026, and a veteran rated at 60% with a spouse receives approximately $1,566.02 per month.
Since Raynaud's syndrome alone can reach a 100% schedular rating, veterans with the most severe presentations, meaning daily attacks with two or more digital ulcers and auto-amputation, may qualify for the maximum compensation rate without needing to combine multiple conditions. Most veterans with a Raynaud's rating below 60%, however, will have this rating combined with other service-connected conditions using VA math to determine their overall combined rating and monthly payment.
Establishing Service Connection for Raynaud's Syndrome
To receive compensation, you need to show that your Raynaud's syndrome is connected to your military service. There are two primary paths.
Direct service connection applies when Raynaud's syndrome began during or was caused by active duty service. This is less common as a standalone claim because Raynaud's syndrome is typically secondary to another disease, but it can apply in cases involving cold weather injury, repetitive vibration exposure, or documented onset during service with no other identifiable cause.
Secondary service connection is the most common path for Raynaud's syndrome claims. If you already have a service-connected condition that is known to cause or worsen Raynaud's, you can file a secondary claim. Conditions frequently linked to secondary Raynaud's syndrome include:
- Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus), which affects a substantial share of lupus patients with Raynaud's symptoms
- Scleroderma and CREST syndrome, where Raynaud's is present in the large majority of patients
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sjogren's syndrome
- Mixed connective tissue disease
- Cold weather injury (frostbite) residuals, which can cause vascular damage that produces Raynaud's-like symptoms
If your Raynaud's symptoms developed after your service-connected autoimmune or connective tissue condition, a secondary service connection claim can establish the link.
Required Evidence for a Raynaud's Syndrome Claim
A well-supported claim generally includes the following.
Current diagnosis from a rheumatologist, internist, or vascular specialist confirming Raynaud's syndrome (secondary Raynaud's phenomenon) rather than primary Raynaud's disease.
Medical records documenting attack frequency, since the entire rating structure hinges on how many characteristic attacks occur per week. A symptom log tracking the date, duration, and triggers of episodes for at least 90 days strengthens the evidentiary record.
Evidence of digital ulcers or tissue loss, if applicable, including photographs, wound care records, or specialist notes, since these findings are required for the 60% and 100% ratings.
Nexus letter from a treating physician explaining the medical link between your service-connected underlying condition (such as lupus or scleroderma) and your Raynaud's syndrome diagnosis. This is essential for secondary service connection claims.
Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) for Raynaud's syndrome, if your provider is willing to complete one, since the form maps directly to the DC 7117 rating criteria.
How to File a VA Claim for Raynaud's Syndrome
Step 1: Gather your medical evidence
Collect diagnosis records, specialist notes, and any documentation of digital ulcers or tissue changes. If pursuing secondary service connection, request a nexus letter from your rheumatologist or the specialist managing your underlying condition.
Step 2: File online at VA.gov
Sign in to VA.gov with a DS Logon, Login.gov, or ID.me account and select "File a VA disability claim." Complete VA Form 21-526EZ and upload your supporting documents.
Step 3: Attend your Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam
The VA will schedule an exam to evaluate the frequency and severity of your attacks. Describe your typical episode pattern over the past several months rather than how you feel on the day of the exam, since symptoms can fluctuate.
Step 4: Review your rating decision
The VA will mail a decision letter. If you disagree with the rating assigned, you can file a Supplemental Claim with new evidence, request a Higher-Level Review, or appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals.
Step 5: File for the underlying condition if not already service-connected
If your Raynaud's syndrome is secondary to lupus, scleroderma, or another autoimmune disease that is not yet service-connected, you generally need to establish service connection for that underlying condition first, or at the same time, to support your secondary Raynaud's claim.
Tips for Documenting Attack Frequency
Because the rating tiers for DC 7117 are based entirely on how often attacks occur, keeping a detailed log matters more for this condition than for many others. Note the date, time, duration, triggers (cold exposure or emotional stress), and color changes for each episode. A consistent log covering at least three months gives the C&P examiner and the rater clear evidence for the correct tier, rather than relying on memory or general estimates during the exam.
If your attacks have increased in frequency or you have developed new digital ulcers since your last rating decision, you can file a claim for increased rating at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum VA disability rating for Raynaud's syndrome?
The maximum schedular rating under Diagnostic Code 7117 is 100%, which requires two or more digital ulcers, auto-amputation of one or more digits, and a history of characteristic attacks. This makes Raynaud's syndrome one of the few conditions where a single diagnostic code can reach the maximum rating without needing to combine with other conditions.
Is Raynaud's syndrome the same as Raynaud's disease for VA rating purposes?
No. Raynaud's syndrome (secondary Raynaud's phenomenon) is rated under DC 7117 and is tied to an underlying disease such as lupus or scleroderma. Raynaud's disease (primary Raynaud's) has no identifiable underlying cause, is generally milder, and is evaluated under different criteria that do not carry the same maximum rating.
Can Raynaud's syndrome be service-connected secondary to lupus or scleroderma?
Yes. Secondary service connection is the most common path for Raynaud's syndrome claims, since the condition frequently develops as a complication of autoimmune and connective tissue diseases. You need a nexus letter linking your Raynaud's diagnosis to your already service-connected underlying condition.
How does the VA measure attack frequency for a Raynaud's rating?
The VA rating tiers are based on how many characteristic attacks occur per week: one to three times a week for 10%, four to six times a week for 20%, and at least daily for 40%. A detailed symptom log documenting the frequency, duration, and triggers of your attacks over several months provides the strongest evidence for the correct tier.
What counts as a "characteristic attack" under DC 7117?
The VA defines a characteristic attack as sequential color changes of the digits of one or more extremities, lasting minutes to hours, sometimes with pain and paresthesias, and triggered by cold exposure or emotional upset. This is the classic pattern of fingers or toes turning white, then blue, then red during an episode.
Can I get a higher rating if my Raynaud's syndrome worsens over time?
Yes. You can file a claim for increased rating whenever your symptoms worsen, such as an increase in attack frequency or the development of new digital ulcers. Updated medical evidence documenting the change supports the claim for a higher tier.
Does VA disability compensation for Raynaud's syndrome affect Social Security disability eligibility?
No. VA disability compensation and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are separate programs with different rules, and receiving one does not disqualify you from the other. Veterans with severe autoimmune conditions and related Raynaud's syndrome may qualify for both, depending on how the conditions affect their ability to work.
