Congestive Heart Failure

DC 7019Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7019

A condition where your heart cannot pump blood well enough to meet your body's needs, causing fluid buildup and shortness of breath. The VA rates congestive heart failure based on your heart's workload capacity in METs, ejection fraction, and the frequency of acute episodes.

Rating Levels

You have chronic congestive heart failure, or your workload capacity is 3 METs or less resulting in symptoms, or your left ventricular ejection fraction is less than 30 percent.

What the VA looks for

Chronic congestive heart failure
Workload capacity of 3 METs or less
Left ventricular ejection fraction less than 30%
Severe functional limitation
Ongoing heart failure management and medication

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting every hospitalization and ER visit for CHF episodes — more than one episode per year supports 60%.
⚠Not getting regular echocardiograms showing ejection fraction — LVEF below 30% warrants 100%.
⚠Not connecting CHF to other service-connected conditions like hypertension, coronary artery disease, or diabetes.
⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation if CHF requires aid and attendance.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Heart Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…