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VA Disability Rating for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
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VA Rating for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Facing a diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma can be hard enough without having to deal with all the paperwork of the VA. If you are a veteran or someone who has a veteran who happens to have been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, you need to know that there is an automatic 100% disability rating associated with being diagnosed with Active Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma by the VA.

The PACT Act, as well as longstanding presumptive regulations, have helped ease the process to get your claim service connected, but it’s after your claim is approved that too many veterans lose their benefits. This guide will explain how the VA rates Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2026, how to be eligible under the PACT Act and what happens when your treatment for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma ends.

How the VA Rates Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

The VA evaluates Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma under Diagnostic Code 7715 (within the schedule for Hemic and Lymphatic Systems).

The rating structure is unique compared to other disabilities because it focuses on the status of the disease rather than just daily symptoms.

  • Active Disease or Treatment: While the cancer is active or you are undergoing treatment (like chemotherapy, radiation, or biological therapy), the VA assigns a 100% disability rating.
  • The “Six-Month Rule”: This 100% rating doesn’t disappear the second your treatment stops. It continues for at least six months after your last treatment session.
  • Mandatory Re-Evaluation: Following that six-month period, the VA will schedule a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam to see if the cancer is in remission and to evaluate any “residuals” (long-term side effects).

Expert Note: As of 2026, a 100% disability rating for a single Veteran with no dependents pays $3,938.58 per month. This tax-free support is vital for focusing on recovery without the stress of lost income.

The VA’s Evaluation of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

The VA uses Diagnostic Code 7715 in their classification of the different Hemic and Lymphatic systems of diagnosis to assess Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and provide disability ratings.  Unlike many other disabilities, the rating criteria for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma considers the individual’s disease status rather than merely assessing the severity of daily symptoms.

If you are still receiving cancer treatment (chemotherapy/radiation/biological therapy) or if your cancer is considered “active,” you will be given a 100% rating by the VA.

The rating of 100% does not stop with your last day of treatment – it lasts for a minimum of six months after your last day of treatment.  This “Six-Month Rule” is very important in the process of rating Veterans’ cases by the VA.

After the six-month period, the VA will schedule a C&P (Compensation and Pension) examination to determine if your Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is in remission, as well as to assess any long-term residuals or chronic side effects from the treatment of your Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

Important Tip: The estimated 100% rating in 2026 for a single veteran with no dependents will be $3,938.58 per month. This amount is non-taxable and will assist in allowing the veteran to focus on recovery without being stressed about lost income.

What Happens When Treatment Ends? (Rating Residuals)

One of the biggest mistakes Veterans make is assuming their benefits end when they enter remission. While the 100% rating is temporary, you are often entitled to a permanent rating based on the “residuals” of the cancer and its treatment.

After your mandatory C&P exam, the VA will re-rate you based on the damage left behind. Common compensable residuals include:

  • Anemia or Blood Issues: Rated based on how often you need transfusions.
  • Peripheral Neuropathy: Numbness or tingling in hands and feet (common after chemo).
  • Immune System Impairment: If you have frequent, recurring infections.
  • Organ Damage: Damage to the heart, lungs, or kidneys caused by intensive radiation or medication.

If your cancer returns or never fully goes away (indolent NHL), you can maintain that 100% rating indefinitely.

Step-by-Step: How to File Your NHL Claim

If you’re ready to file, follow these steps to ensure your claim is “fully developed” to speed up the 2026 processing times:

  1. Gather Your Medical Records: You need a formal diagnosis. Pathological reports and treatment plans from your oncologist are the gold standard.
  2. Verify Your Service Dates: Ensure your DD-214 clearly shows you served in a presumptive location (e.g., Vietnam, Iraq, Camp Lejeune).
  3. Submit VA Form 21-526EZ: This is the standard application for disability compensation.
  4. Identify Secondary Conditions: Don’t just claim NHL. If the cancer caused depression, anxiety, or chronic fatigue, list those as secondary conditions.
  5. Attend the C&P Exam: Even if you feel healthy, never skip this exam. This is where the doctor documents your symptoms for your long-term rating.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • The “Remission Trap”: Don’t tell the C&P examiner you are “fine” just because the cancer is gone. Focus on your limitations the fatigue, the brain fog, or the physical pain that wasn’t there before service.
  • Missing the PACT Act Deadline: While there isn’t a hard “expiration” on PACT Act claims, filing sooner ensures you get the earliest possible effective date for backpay.
  • Failing to File for TDIU: If your residuals prevent you from holding a steady job but your rating is only 60% or 70%, you should apply for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma disability rating

Your VA non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma disability rating is more than just a monetary compensation; it also opens up access to specialized healthcare services and gives veterans some peace of mind. You earned these benefits based on your time serving our country, whether you are actively fighting your cancer or have been in remission for a while.

If you need assistance filing a claim, don’t do it alone! Work with a Veterans Service Officer or accredited attorney at the VA to ensure you receive all the benefits available to you. To learn more about the VA PACT Act or to contact your local VA office, please visit the VA website.

 

FAQ: VA Disability for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

  1. Is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma a presumptive condition for the PACT Act?

Yes. NHL is included in the list of presumptive cancers for Veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxins during the Gulf War and post-9/11 service.

  1. Can I get a 100% rating if my NHL is in remission?

Initially, yes. You keep the 100% rating for six months after treatment ends. After that, the VA will re-evaluate you and may lower the rating based on your remaining symptoms.

  1. What if I was denied for NHL in the past?

With the passage of the PACT Act, you should file a Supplemental Claim. Many Veterans previously denied are now being granted service connection automatically under the new laws.

  1. How does the VA rate “smoldering” or low-grade NHL?

If the cancer is not currently being treated with “aggressive” therapy but is still present and requires monitoring, you may still qualify for the 100% rating depending on the specific subtype and symptoms.

  1. Are secondary conditions like “chemo brain” covered?

Yes. Cognitive impairment, memory loss, and chronic fatigue secondary to NHL or its treatment are frequently granted service connection and can increase your overall disability percentage.

  1. What is the average monthly payment for NHL?

During active treatment, it is the 100% rate (over $3,900/month). Post-treatment, it varies wildly from 10% for minor residuals to 100% if the condition remains debilitating.

VETCOMM offers a Money-Back Guarantee for veterans who follow the full process as outlined. When you sign up, you agree to allow us two attempts to help you secure at least a 10% VA rating. To remain eligible for a refund, you must attend all scheduled appointments with our team and complete your VA-requested C&P exams.

If your first VETCOMM-assisted claim results in a total VA rating increase of 10% or more, the goal of the course has been achieved and the guarantee is fulfilled. No refund is issued.

If your first claim does not lead to a 10% total increase, VETCOMM will assist you in filing a second claim.
If the second claim results in a 10% or greater increase, the goal has been achieved and the guarantee is fulfilled.

If your second claim also does not result in a 10% total increase, you have two options:

  1. Request a full refund

  2. Proceed with a third filing and waive your right to a refund

Filing a third claim fulfills the guarantee obligation, regardless of outcome. Many veterans require multiple filings due to documentation challenges or individual circumstances that affect how the VA awards ratings. While we assist in the process, approval decisions are made solely by the VA.

There are a few situations where the Guarantee Refund Policy does not apply:

  • Veterans with a 90% Total Disability Rating:
    Due to how the VA calculates ratings, increasing from 90% to 100% is very difficult. VETCOMM will still assist with up to three (3) VETCOMM-assisted claims, but no refund will be issued if a 10% total increase is not awarded.

  • Veterans with an Other Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge:
    Veterans with an OTH discharge can still file claims with VETCOMM. However, because of additional VA restrictions, we will assist with up to two (2) VETCOMM-assisted claims, and no refund will be issued if a 10% total increase is not awarded.