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Free tool - ratings, codes and the secondary map

VA Disability Ratings by Condition

What the VA rates each condition at, and what decides the number. Every condition below carries its diagnostic code, the typical percentage range it falls in, and the criteria at each rating level - the actual measurements and symptoms that move you from 10% to 30% to 50%. Search any one of them to see the secondary conditions it can lead to, and the wording to file with.

A range is not a prediction. Two veterans with the same diagnosis are rated differently because the rating follows the documented severity, not the diagnosis - which is why the criteria matter more than the range.

What's a “secondary” condition? A new problem caused - or made worse - by a condition you're already service-connected for, or by the treatment for it. It never has to have happened during service, and it rates and pays just like any other condition.

  • You take medication for a service-connected mental health condition, and it causes GERD (acid reflux). The reflux never came up in the military - but it exists because of the medication, so it can be claimed secondary to the mental health condition.
  • A back injury from a fall in service leaves you with years of chronic pain and muscle tension - and now migraines. The migraines can be claimed secondary to the back condition.

This is how a single service-connected condition becomes the anchor for a higher combined rating - most veterans are sitting on secondaries they never knew they could claim.

Every condition, its code and its typical rating range

41 conditions. A range is where most ratings for that condition land. What decides your number is the criteria - those are in each condition's card below.

ConditionDiagnostic codeTypical rangeCan lead to
Ankle or foot condition (incl. flat feet, plantar fasciitis)DC 5271 / 5276 / 528410–50%7 conditions
Anxiety disorderDC 940010–100%13 conditions
Asthma / COPDDC 6602 / 66040–100%2 conditions
Cancer (exposure-related, presumptive)varies by site100% while active; residuals rated after2 conditions
Chronic fatigue syndromeDC 635410–100%2 conditions
Chronic kidney diseaseDC 7530s0–100%3 conditions
Chronic sinusitis / rhinitisDC 6510–6514 / 65220–50%4 conditions
Degenerative arthritisDC 500310–20%+2 conditions
DepressionDC 943410–100%13 conditions
Diabetic retinopathy / eye conditionsDC 60400–100% -
Endometriosis / gynecological conditionsDC 7629 / 761810–50% (100% post-hysterectomy)3 conditions
Erectile dysfunction / FSADDC 7522 / 76320% + SMC-K ($139.87/mo) -
FibromyalgiaDC 502510–40%5 conditions
GERD (acid reflux)DC 72060–80% (0% is common without stricture)4 conditions
Hearing lossDC 61000–100%3 conditions
Heart disease (ischemic / CAD)DC 700510–100%1 condition
HemorrhoidsDC 73360–20% -
High blood pressure (hypertension)DC 710110–60%5 conditions
Hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion)DC 5250–525510–20%+5 conditions
Hypothyroidism / thyroid conditionsDC 790310–30%2 conditions
InsomniaDC 941310–100% (rated with mental health)1 condition
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)DC 731910–30%3 conditions
Knee conditionDC 5257 / 5260 / 52610–30%+7 conditions
Lower back condition (lumbar spine)DC 5237–524310–50%11 conditions
Mental health conditionDC 9400–9440 (one combined rating)10–100%13 conditions
Migraine headachesDC 81000–50%3 conditions
Neck condition (cervical spine)DC 523710–30%5 conditions
Peripheral neuropathyDC 8515 / 852010–80% per extremity2 conditions
Prostate conditions (cancer, BPH)DC 7528 / 7527100% while cancer is active; residuals after3 conditions
PTSDDC 941110–100%13 conditions
Radiculopathy / nerve painDC 8520 (leg) / 8510 (arm)10–80% per extremity1 condition
Scars (painful, unstable, or disfiguring)DC 7800–780510–30%+1 condition
Shoulder condition (limitation of arm motion)DC 520110–40%2 conditions
Skin condition (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis)DC 7806 / 78160–60%1 condition
Sleep apneaDC 68470–100% (50% with CPAP under current rules)10 conditions
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)DC 6260flat 10% under current rules6 conditions
TMJ / jaw dysfunction (incl. bruxism)DC 990510–40%2 conditions
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) residualsDC 80450–100%8 conditions
Type 2 diabetesDC 791310–100%8 conditions
Urinary frequency / voiding dysfunctionDC 7512 / 752710–40% -
Vertigo / vestibular disorderDC 6204 / 620510–100%1 condition

Ranges come from the VA's rating schedule in 38 CFR Part 4. “Can lead to” counts the documented secondary conditions in our map - what the whole map looks like.

Sleep apneaGERDIBS++++++Mental health - rated
One rated condition commonly opens a web of further ratable claims. A rated mental health condition alone connects to 13 - three named here. The free scan maps yours; the workup shows the medical rationale for every spoke.

41 conditions

Mental Health

Mental health conditionDC 9400–9440 (one combined rating) • typical: 10–100%13 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 9400–9440 - 38 CFR §4.130 (General Rating Formula)

0%Formally diagnosed, but symptoms are not severe enough to interfere with work or social functioning OR to require continuous medication.
10%Mild or transient symptoms that decrease work efficiency only during periods of significant stress - OR symptoms controlled by continuous medication. That second route is the one most often missed: if medication is holding your symptoms down, that itself supports 10%.
30%Occasional decrease in work efficiency with intermittent inability to perform tasks - mild memory loss, panic attacks (weekly or less).
50%Reduced reliability and productivity - impaired judgment, difficulty with relationships, panic attacks more than once a week.
70%Deficiencies in MOST areas (work, school, family, judgment, thinking, mood) - suicidal ideation, obsessional rituals, near-continuous panic or depression.
100%Total occupational and social impairment - gross thought impairment, persistent delusions/hallucinations, danger to self or others, disorientation.

Already service-connected for Mental health condition - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Knee condition (DC 5257 / 5260 / 5261)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (DC 7319)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Mental health condition:

your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything mental health condition can lead to are free on the Mental health condition page.

See what the full workup includes →
PTSDDC 9411 • typical: 10–100%13 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 9411 - 38 CFR §4.130 (General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders)

0%Formally diagnosed, but symptoms are not severe enough to interfere with work or social functioning OR to require continuous medication.
10%Mild or transient symptoms that decrease work efficiency only during periods of significant stress - OR symptoms controlled by continuous medication. That second route is the one most often missed: if medication is holding your symptoms down, that itself supports 10%.
30%Occasional decrease in work efficiency with intermittent inability to perform tasks - mild memory loss, panic attacks (weekly or less).
50%Reduced reliability and productivity - impaired judgment, difficulty with relationships, panic attacks more than once a week.
70%Deficiencies in MOST areas (work, school, family, judgment, thinking, mood) - suicidal ideation, obsessional rituals, near-continuous panic or depression.
100%Total occupational and social impairment - gross thought impairment, persistent delusions/hallucinations, danger to self or others, disorientation.

Already service-connected for PTSD - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Knee condition (DC 5257 / 5260 / 5261)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (DC 7319)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for PTSD:

3 filing tips · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything ptsd can lead to are free on the PTSD page.

See what the full workup includes →
DepressionDC 9434 • typical: 10–100%13 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 9434 - 38 CFR §4.130

0%Formally diagnosed, but symptoms are not severe enough to interfere with work or social functioning OR to require continuous medication.
10%Mild or transient symptoms that decrease work efficiency only during periods of significant stress - OR symptoms controlled by continuous medication. That second route is the one most often missed: if medication is holding your symptoms down, that itself supports 10%.
30%Occasional decrease in work efficiency with intermittent inability to perform tasks - mild memory loss, panic attacks (weekly or less).
50%Reduced reliability and productivity - impaired judgment, difficulty with relationships, panic attacks more than once a week.
70%Deficiencies in MOST areas (work, school, family, judgment, thinking, mood) - suicidal ideation, obsessional rituals, near-continuous panic or depression.
100%Total occupational and social impairment - gross thought impairment, persistent delusions/hallucinations, danger to self or others, disorientation.

Already service-connected for Depression - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Knee condition (DC 5257 / 5260 / 5261)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (DC 7319)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Depression:

30 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything depression can lead to are free on the Depression page.

See what the full workup includes →
Anxiety disorderDC 9400 • typical: 10–100%13 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 9400 - 38 CFR §4.130

0%Formally diagnosed, but symptoms are not severe enough to interfere with work or social functioning OR to require continuous medication.
10%Mild or transient symptoms that decrease work efficiency only during periods of significant stress - OR symptoms controlled by continuous medication. That second route is the one most often missed: if medication is holding your symptoms down, that itself supports 10%.
30%Occasional decrease in work efficiency with intermittent inability to perform tasks - mild memory loss, panic attacks (weekly or less).
50%Reduced reliability and productivity - impaired judgment, difficulty with relationships, panic attacks more than once a week.
70%Deficiencies in MOST areas (work, school, family, judgment, thinking, mood) - suicidal ideation, obsessional rituals, near-continuous panic or depression.
100%Total occupational and social impairment - gross thought impairment, persistent delusions/hallucinations, danger to self or others, disorientation.

Already service-connected for Anxiety disorder - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Knee condition (DC 5257 / 5260 / 5261)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (DC 7319)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Anxiety disorder:

1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything anxiety disorder can lead to are free on the Anxiety disorder page.

See what the full workup includes →
InsomniaDC 9413 • typical: 10–100% (rated with mental health)1 secondary

What each rating level requires DC 9413 - 38 CFR §4.130

0%Formally diagnosed, but symptoms are not severe enough to interfere with work or social functioning OR to require continuous medication.
10%Mild or transient symptoms that decrease work efficiency only during periods of significant stress - OR symptoms controlled by continuous medication. That second route is the one most often missed: if medication is holding your symptoms down, that itself supports 10%.
30%Occasional decrease in work efficiency with intermittent inability to perform tasks - mild memory loss, panic attacks (weekly or less).
50%Reduced reliability and productivity - impaired judgment, difficulty with relationships, panic attacks more than once a week.
70%Deficiencies in MOST areas (work, school, family, judgment, thinking, mood) - suicidal ideation, obsessional rituals, near-continuous panic or depression.
100%Total occupational and social impairment - gross thought impairment, persistent delusions/hallucinations, danger to self or others, disorientation.

Already service-connected for Insomnia - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Depression (DC 9434)

In the full workup for Insomnia:

10 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything insomnia can lead to are free on the Insomnia page.

See what the full workup includes →

Back, Joints & Muscles

Lower back condition (lumbar spine)DC 5237–5243 • typical: 10–50%11 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 5235–5243 - 38 CFR §4.71a (General Rating Formula for the Spine)

10%Forward flexion >60° but ≤85°, OR combined thoracolumbar range of motion >120° but ≤235°, OR muscle spasm/guarding/tenderness not causing abnormal gait, OR a vertebral fracture with 50% or more loss of height.
20%Forward flexion >30° but ≤60°, OR combined thoracolumbar range of motion 120° or less, OR muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to cause abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour.
40%Forward flexion 30° or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.
50%Unfavorable ankylosis (fixed stiffness) of the entire thoracolumbar spine.
10–60% (IVDS)Alternative formula: weeks of physician-prescribed bed rest in the past year (60% requires 6+ weeks).

Already service-connected for Lower back condition (lumbar spine) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Degenerative arthritis (DC 5003)
  • Hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion) (DC 5250–5255)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Lower back condition (lumbar spine):

7 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything lower back condition (lumbar spine) can lead to are free on the Lower back condition (lumbar spine) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Neck condition (cervical spine)DC 5237 • typical: 10–30%5 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 5237 - 38 CFR §4.71a (General Rating Formula for the Spine)

10%Cervical forward flexion >30° but ≤40°, OR combined cervical range of motion >170° but ≤335°, OR spasm/tenderness without abnormal gait, OR a vertebral fracture with 50% or more loss of height.
20%Cervical forward flexion >15° but ≤30°, OR combined cervical range of motion 170° or less, OR spasm or guarding causing abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour.
30%Cervical forward flexion 15° or less.
40–100%Ankylosis of the cervical spine (40% favorable; higher when unfavorable/entire spine).

Already service-connected for Neck condition (cervical spine) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Migraine headaches (DC 8100)
  • Shoulder condition (limitation of arm motion) (DC 5201)

In the full workup for Neck condition (cervical spine):

your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything neck condition (cervical spine) can lead to are free on the Neck condition (cervical spine) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Knee conditionDC 5257 / 5260 / 5261 • typical: 0–30%+7 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 5257 / 5260 / 5261 - 38 CFR §4.71a

10–30% (instability, DC 5257)10% persistent instability; 20% when a brace or assistive device is prescribed; 30% for unrepaired ligament damage requiring both brace and assistive device.
0–30% (flexion, DC 5260)Flexion limited to 60°=0%, 45°=10%, 30°=20%, 15°=30%.
0–50% (extension, DC 5261)Extension limited to 5°=0%, 10°=10%, 15°=20%, 20°=30%, 30°=40%, 45°=50%.

Already service-connected for Knee condition - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Ankle or foot condition (incl. flat feet, plantar fasciitis) (DC 5271 / 5276 / 5284)
  • Degenerative arthritis (DC 5003)
  • Hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion) (DC 5250–5255)

In the full workup for Knee condition:

7 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 2 filing tips · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything knee condition can lead to are free on the Knee condition page.

See what the full workup includes →
Ankle or foot condition (incl. flat feet, plantar fasciitis)DC 5271 / 5276 / 5284 • typical: 10–50%7 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 5271 / 5276 / 5269 - 38 CFR §4.71a

10–20% (ankle, DC 5271)Moderate limitation 10%; marked limitation (<5° dorsiflexion or <10° plantar flexion) 20%.
10–50% (flat feet, DC 5276)Up to 50% for pronounced bilateral pes planus: marked pronation, extreme tenderness, not improved by orthopedic shoes.
10–30% (plantar fasciitis, DC 5269)10% standard; 20% unilateral with no relief from treatment; 30% bilateral with no relief from treatment.

Already service-connected for Ankle or foot condition (incl. flat feet, plantar fasciitis) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Degenerative arthritis (DC 5003)
  • Hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion) (DC 5250–5255)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Ankle or foot condition (incl. flat feet, plantar fasciitis):

3 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything ankle or foot condition (incl. flat feet, plantar fasciitis) can lead to are free on the Ankle or foot condition (incl. flat feet, plantar fasciitis) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Shoulder condition (limitation of arm motion)DC 5201 • typical: 10–40%2 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 5201 - 38 CFR §4.71a

20%Arm motion limited to shoulder level (dominant or non-dominant).
30% / 20%Motion limited to midway between side and shoulder (dominant / non-dominant).
40% / 30%Motion limited to 25° from the side (dominant / non-dominant).
10%Painful motion that doesn't meet the thresholds can still rate via the arthritis pathway (DC 5003).

Already service-connected for Shoulder condition (limitation of arm motion) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • GERD (acid reflux) (DC 7206)

In the full workup for Shoulder condition (limitation of arm motion):

1 pathway to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything shoulder condition (limitation of arm motion) can lead to are free on the Shoulder condition (limitation of arm motion) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion)DC 5250–5255 • typical: 10–20%+5 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 5250–5255 - 38 CFR §4.71a

10% (DC 5252)Thigh flexion limited to 45°.
20% (DC 5252)Thigh flexion limited to 30°.
30% (DC 5252)Thigh flexion limited to 20°.
40% (DC 5252)Thigh flexion limited to 10°.
10% (DC 5253)Thigh impairment: cannot cross the legs, OR cannot toe-out more than 15° on the affected leg. Rated separately from flexion loss - two different motions, two codes.
20% (DC 5253)Limitation of abduction with motion lost beyond 10°.
HigherAnkylosis, flail joint or femur impairment rate substantially higher under DC 5250, 5254 and 5255.

Already service-connected for Hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Ankle or foot condition (incl. flat feet, plantar fasciitis) (DC 5271 / 5276 / 5284)
  • Knee condition (DC 5257 / 5260 / 5261)

In the full workup for Hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion):

3 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion) can lead to are free on the Hip condition (bursitis, arthritis, limited motion) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Degenerative arthritisDC 5003 • typical: 10–20%+2 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 5003 - 38 CFR §4.71a

10%Two routes. Where motion loss is not compensable under the joint's own code: 10% for EACH major joint or group of minor joints with X-ray-confirmed arthritis and satisfactory evidence of painful motion - per joint, which is the route most veterans qualify under. Separately: 10% for X-ray involvement of two or more major joints or two or more minor joint groups.
20%X-ray involvement of two or more major joints or two or more minor joint groups, WITH occasional incapacitating exacerbations.

Already service-connected for Degenerative arthritis - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • GERD (acid reflux) (DC 7206)

In the full workup for Degenerative arthritis:

3 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything degenerative arthritis can lead to are free on the Degenerative arthritis page.

See what the full workup includes →
TMJ / jaw dysfunction (incl. bruxism)DC 9905 • typical: 10–40%2 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 9905 - 38 CFR §4.150

10%Maximum vertical opening 30–34 mm with no dietary restriction, or lateral excursion limited to 0–4 mm. Normal opening is 35–50 mm.
20%Opening 21–29 mm with no dietary restriction, or 30–34 mm restricted to soft and semi-solid foods.
30%Opening 11–20 mm with no dietary restriction, or 21–29 mm restricted to soft and semi-solid foods, or 30–34 mm restricted to full liquid and pureed foods.
40%Opening 0–10 mm with no dietary restriction, or 11–20 mm restricted to mechanically altered foods, or 21–29 mm restricted to full liquid and pureed foods.
50%Opening 0–10 mm with restriction to all mechanically altered foods.

Already service-connected for TMJ / jaw dysfunction (incl. bruxism) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Migraine headaches (DC 8100)

In the full workup for TMJ / jaw dysfunction (incl. bruxism):

4 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything tmj / jaw dysfunction (incl. bruxism) can lead to are free on the TMJ / jaw dysfunction (incl. bruxism) page.

See what the full workup includes →

Brain & Nerves

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) residualsDC 8045 • typical: 0–100%8 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 8045 - 38 CFR §4.124a

0%Highest facet at level 0.
10%Highest facet at level 1.
40%Highest facet at level 2. This is the jump that matters - one facet moving from level 1 to level 2 takes the rating from 10% to 40%.
70%Highest facet at level 3.
100%Any single facet evaluated as "total".

Already service-connected for Traumatic brain injury (TBI) residuals - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Hypothyroidism / thyroid conditions (DC 7903)
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) (DC 6260)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Traumatic brain injury (TBI) residuals:

2 filing tips · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything traumatic brain injury (tbi) residuals can lead to are free on the Traumatic brain injury (TBI) residuals page.

See what the full workup includes →
Migraine headachesDC 8100 • typical: 0–50%3 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 8100 - 38 CFR §4.124a

0%Occasional attacks.
10%Characteristic prostrating attacks averaging one in 2 months.
30%Prostrating attacks averaging once a month over the last several months.
50%Very frequent, completely prostrating and prolonged attacks producing severe economic inadaptability.

Already service-connected for Migraine headaches - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • GERD (acid reflux) (DC 7206)

In the full workup for Migraine headaches:

12 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything migraine headaches can lead to are free on the Migraine headaches page.

See what the full workup includes →
Radiculopathy / nerve painDC 8520 (leg) / 8510 (arm) • typical: 10–80% per extremity1 secondary

What each rating level requires DC 8520 (sciatic) / 8510–8515 (upper) - 38 CFR §4.124a

10%Mild incomplete paralysis (subjective numbness/tingling).
20%Moderate incomplete paralysis (objective findings: reduced reflexes, sensory loss).
40–60%Moderately severe to severe incomplete paralysis (muscle atrophy, marked weakness).
80% (sciatic)Complete paralysis: foot dangles and drops, no active movement below the knee.

Already service-connected for Radiculopathy / nerve pain - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Depression (DC 9434)

In the full workup for Radiculopathy / nerve pain:

2 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 2 filing tips · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything radiculopathy / nerve pain can lead to are free on the Radiculopathy / nerve pain page.

See what the full workup includes →
Peripheral neuropathyDC 8515 / 8520 • typical: 10–80% per extremity2 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 8515 / 8520 - 38 CFR §4.124a

Mild incompleteMedian nerve (DC 8515) 10% either arm. Sciatic (DC 8520) 10%. Rated per nerve, per extremity - two arms means two ratings, and separate extremities can trigger the bilateral factor.
Moderate incompleteMedian nerve 30% dominant arm / 20% non-dominant. Sciatic 20%.
Moderately severeSciatic 40%. (The median nerve has no moderately-severe tier.)
Severe incompleteMedian nerve 50% dominant / 40% non-dominant. Sciatic 60%, with marked muscular atrophy.
Complete paralysisMedian nerve 70% dominant / 60% non-dominant. Sciatic 80% - the foot dangles and drops, no active movement below the knee.

Already service-connected for Peripheral neuropathy - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Vertigo / vestibular disorder (DC 6204 / 6205)

In the full workup for Peripheral neuropathy:

1 pathway to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything peripheral neuropathy can lead to are free on the Peripheral neuropathy page.

See what the full workup includes →
Vertigo / vestibular disorderDC 6204 / 6205 • typical: 10–100%1 secondary

What each rating level requires DC 6204 / 6205 (Ménière's) - 38 CFR §4.87

10% (6204)Occasional dizziness.
30% (6204)Dizziness AND occasional staggering.
30–100% (6205)Ménière's: 30% vertigo less than once a month; 60% one to four times a month; 100% more than once weekly - each with hearing impairment. You may instead rate vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus SEPARATELY and combine them, whichever gives the higher result. You cannot do both, so it is worth working out which way pays more.

Already service-connected for Vertigo / vestibular disorder - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Depression (DC 9434)

In the full workup for Vertigo / vestibular disorder:

3 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything vertigo / vestibular disorder can lead to are free on the Vertigo / vestibular disorder page.

See what the full workup includes →

Sleep & Breathing

Sleep apneaDC 6847 • typical: 0–100% (50% with CPAP under current rules)10 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 6847 - 38 CFR §4.97

0%Documented sleep disorder breathing, but asymptomatic.
30%Persistent daytime hypersomnolence (excessive sleepiness despite adequate time in bed).
50%Requires use of a breathing assistance device such as a CPAP machine.
100%Chronic respiratory failure with CO2 retention or cor pulmonale, or requires a tracheostomy.

Already service-connected for Sleep apnea - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Hypothyroidism / thyroid conditions (DC 7903)
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) (DC 6260)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Sleep apnea:

10 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything sleep apnea can lead to are free on the Sleep apnea page.

See what the full workup includes →
Asthma / COPDDC 6602 / 6604 • typical: 0–100%2 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 6602 - 38 CFR §4.97

10%FEV-1 71–80% predicted, or FEV-1/FVC 71–80%, or intermittent inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy.
30%FEV-1 56–70% predicted, or FEV-1/FVC 56–70%, or daily inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy, or inhalational anti-inflammatory medication.
60%FEV-1 40–55% predicted, or FEV-1/FVC 40–55%, or at least monthly physician visits for exacerbations, or at least three courses of systemic corticosteroids a year.
100%FEV-1 under 40% predicted, or FEV-1/FVC under 40%, or more than one attack a week with episodes of respiratory failure, or daily high-dose systemic corticosteroids or immunosuppressives.

Already service-connected for Asthma / COPD - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • GERD (acid reflux) (DC 7206)

In the full workup for Asthma / COPD:

3 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything asthma / copd can lead to are free on the Asthma / COPD page.

See what the full workup includes →
Chronic sinusitis / rhinitisDC 6510–6514 / 6522 • typical: 0–50%4 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 6510–6514 - 38 CFR §4.97

0%Detected by X-ray only.
10%1–2 incapacitating episodes/year requiring prolonged (4–6 week) antibiotics, OR 3–6 non-incapacitating episodes/year.
30%Three or more incapacitating episodes a year requiring prolonged (4–6 week) antibiotics, OR more than six NON-incapacitating episodes a year with headaches, pain, and purulent discharge or crusting. The second route is the one most people qualify under and the one most often missed.
50%Following radical surgery with chronic osteomyelitis, OR near-constant sinusitis with headaches, pain and tenderness of the affected sinus, and purulent discharge or crusting after repeated surgeries.

Already service-connected for Chronic sinusitis / rhinitis - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • GERD (acid reflux) (DC 7206)
  • Migraine headaches (DC 8100)

In the full workup for Chronic sinusitis / rhinitis:

2 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything chronic sinusitis / rhinitis can lead to are free on the Chronic sinusitis / rhinitis page.

See what the full workup includes →

Ears & Eyes

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)DC 6260 • typical: flat 10% under current rules6 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 6260 - 38 CFR §4.87

10%Recurrent tinnitus - a flat 10% whether in one ear, both ears, or the head.

Already service-connected for Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • GERD (acid reflux) (DC 7206)
  • Migraine headaches (DC 8100)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Tinnitus (ringing in the ears):

3 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything tinnitus (ringing in the ears) can lead to are free on the Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Hearing lossDC 6100 • typical: 0–100%3 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 6100 - 38 CFR §4.85

0–100%There is no symptom ladder here. The rating is a two-table lookup with no room for judgement: Table VI converts your puretone threshold average and Maryland CNC speech discrimination score into a Roman numeral (I to XI) for each ear, then Table VII crosses the better ear against the worse ear to produce the percentage. Where the examiner certifies that speech discrimination testing is not appropriate - language difficulties, inconsistent scores - Table VIA is used on puretone results alone.
Why most claims come back 0%The arithmetic is unforgiving, and hearing that is genuinely difficult to live with routinely produces a 0%. That is not the VA disputing your hearing; it is a formula that only counts what the two tests measure. A 0% still establishes service connection, which is what makes a later increase - or tinnitus, or a secondary - possible.

Already service-connected for Hearing loss - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) (DC 6260)

In the full workup for Hearing loss:

1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything hearing loss can lead to are free on the Hearing loss page.

See what the full workup includes →
Diabetic retinopathy / eye conditionsDC 6040 • typical: 0–100%

What each rating level requires DC 6040 - 38 CFR §4.79

Two ways, whichever pays moreEye conditions are rated on visual impairment (acuity and field, under DC 6061–6091) OR on incapacitating episodes - whichever produces the HIGHER evaluation. Most veterans are only ever assessed on the first, which is why the second is worth raising.
10%One or two incapacitating episodes in the past 12 months.
20%Three or four incapacitating episodes in the past 12 months.
40%Five or six incapacitating episodes in the past 12 months.
60%Seven or more incapacitating episodes in the past 12 months.

In the full workup for Diabetic retinopathy / eye conditions:

2 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything diabetic retinopathy / eye conditions can lead to are free on the Diabetic retinopathy / eye conditions page.

See what the full workup includes →

Digestive

GERD (acid reflux)DC 7206 • typical: 0–80% (0% is common without stricture)4 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 7206 - 38 CFR §4.114 (own code since the 2024 digestive revision)

0%Documented history without daily symptoms or a requirement for daily medication. Service connection is granted; the payment is not.
10%Documented history of esophageal stricture requiring daily medication to control dysphagia, otherwise asymptomatic.
30%Recurrent esophageal stricture causing dysphagia, requiring dilatation no more than twice a year.
50%Recurrent or refractory stricture causing dysphagia requiring dilatation three or more times a year, dilatation with steroids at least once a year, or a stent.
80%Recurrent or refractory stricture causing dysphagia with aspiration, undernutrition, or substantial weight loss (more than 20% of baseline, held three months or longer, per 38 CFR 4.112), plus either surgical correction or a PEG tube. 80% is the ceiling on this code - there is no 100%.

Already service-connected for GERD (acid reflux) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Sleep apnea (DC 6847)
  • Chronic sinusitis / rhinitis (DC 6510–6514 / 6522)

In the full workup for GERD (acid reflux):

19 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything gerd (acid reflux) can lead to are free on the GERD (acid reflux) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)DC 7319 • typical: 10–30%3 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 7319 - 38 CFR §4.114

10%Abdominal pain related to defecation at least once in the previous three months, AND two or more of: change in stool frequency, change in stool form, altered stool passage (straining or urgency), mucorrhea, abdominal bloating, or subjective distension.
20%Abdominal pain related to defecation at least three days a month over the previous three months, with the same two-or-more accompanying symptoms.
30%Abdominal pain related to defecation at least one day a WEEK over the previous three months, with the same two-or-more accompanying symptoms. This is the maximum under this code.

Already service-connected for Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Hemorrhoids (DC 7336)

In the full workup for Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS):

6 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything irritable bowel syndrome (ibs) can lead to are free on the Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) page.

See what the full workup includes →
HemorrhoidsDC 7336 • typical: 0–20%

What each rating level requires DC 7336 - 38 CFR §4.114

0%Present but not meeting the 10% criteria. Service connection is granted; the payment is not.
10%Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids with two or fewer thrombosis episodes a year, or external hemorrhoids with three or more.
20%Persistent bleeding with anemia, or continuously prolapsed internal hemorrhoids with three or more thrombosis episodes a year.

In the full workup for Hemorrhoids:

1 pathway to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything hemorrhoids can lead to are free on the Hemorrhoids page.

See what the full workup includes →

Heart, Blood & Kidneys

High blood pressure (hypertension)DC 7101 • typical: 10–60%5 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 7101 - 38 CFR §4.104

10%Diastolic predominantly 100 or more, or systolic predominantly 160 or more - OR a history of diastolic predominantly 100 or more that now requires continuous medication for control. That last route is the one most often missed: if medication has brought your readings down, the history plus the medication still supports 10%.
20%Diastolic predominantly 110–119, or systolic predominantly 200+.
40%Diastolic predominantly 120–129.
60%Diastolic predominantly 130+.

Already service-connected for High blood pressure (hypertension) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Urinary frequency / voiding dysfunction (DC 7512 / 7527)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for High blood pressure (hypertension):

7 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything high blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to are free on the High blood pressure (hypertension) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Heart disease (ischemic / CAD)DC 7005 • typical: 10–100%1 secondary

What each rating level requires DC 7005 - 38 CFR §4.104

10%A workload of 7.1–10 METs produces symptoms, or continuous medication is required for control.
30%A workload of 5.1–7 METs produces symptoms, or an echocardiogram confirms cardiac hypertrophy or dilatation.
60%A workload of 3.1–5 METs produces symptoms.
100%A workload of 3 METs or less produces symptoms.

Already service-connected for Heart disease (ischemic / CAD) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Depression (DC 9434)

In the full workup for Heart disease (ischemic / CAD):

9 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything heart disease (ischemic / cad) can lead to are free on the Heart disease (ischemic / CAD) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Chronic kidney diseaseDC 7530s • typical: 0–100%3 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 7530s - 38 CFR §4.115a

0%GFR 60–89 with casts, structural abnormality, or an albumin/creatinine ratio of 30 mg/g or more, for three consecutive months in the past year.
30%GFR 45–59 for three consecutive months in the past year.
60%GFR 30–44 for three consecutive months in the past year.
80%GFR 15–29 for three consecutive months in the past year.
100%GFR under 15 for three consecutive months, or regular dialysis, or eligibility for a transplant.

Already service-connected for Chronic kidney disease - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension) (DC 7101)

In the full workup for Chronic kidney disease:

2 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything chronic kidney disease can lead to are free on the Chronic kidney disease page.

See what the full workup includes →

Hormones & Metabolism

Type 2 diabetesDC 7913 • typical: 10–100%8 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 7913 - 38 CFR §4.119

10%Manageable by restricted diet alone.
20%Requires insulin or oral medication plus restricted diet.
40%Requires insulin, restricted diet, AND regulation of activities.
60%Insulin, restricted diet and regulation of activities, PLUS episodes of ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic reactions requiring one or two hospitalisations a year or twice-monthly visits to a diabetic care provider, plus complications that would not be compensable if rated separately.
100%More than one daily insulin injection, restricted diet and regulation of activities, PLUS ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic reactions requiring at least three hospitalisations a year or weekly provider visits, plus either progressive loss of weight and strength or complications that WOULD be compensable if rated separately.

Already service-connected for Type 2 diabetes - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • GERD (acid reflux) (DC 7206)
  • High blood pressure (hypertension) (DC 7101)
  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Type 2 diabetes:

4 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything type 2 diabetes can lead to are free on the Type 2 diabetes page.

See what the full workup includes →
Hypothyroidism / thyroid conditionsDC 7903 • typical: 10–30%2 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 7903 - 38 CFR §4.119

100%Hypothyroidism manifesting as myxedema - cold intolerance, muscular weakness, cardiovascular involvement (hypotension, bradycardia, pericardial effusion) and mental disturbance (dementia, slowed thought, depression). Continues for six months beyond stabilisation, then residuals are rated.
30%Hypothyroidism without myxedema. TIME-LIMITED: this evaluation continues for six months after initial diagnosis and then ends.
After six monthsThe condition leaves DC 7903 entirely. Residuals are rated under whichever body system they affect - depression and slowed thought under the mental-disorder codes, bradycardia under cardiac, and so on. That can mean SEVERAL ratings rather than one, which is the part most people miss when their 30% drops off.

Already service-connected for Hypothyroidism / thyroid conditions - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Heart disease (ischemic / CAD) (DC 7005)

In the full workup for Hypothyroidism / thyroid conditions:

2 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything hypothyroidism / thyroid conditions can lead to are free on the Hypothyroidism / thyroid conditions page.

See what the full workup includes →

Skin & Scars

Skin condition (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis)DC 7806 / 7816 • typical: 0–60%1 secondary

What each rating level requires DC 7806 - 38 CFR §4.118

0%Less than 5% of the body affected; topical therapy only.
10%5–20% of the body/exposed areas, OR intermittent systemic therapy under 6 weeks in the past year.
30%20–40% of the body/exposed areas, OR systemic therapy totaling 6+ weeks in the past year.
60%More than 40% of the body/exposed areas, OR constant/near-constant systemic therapy (corticosteroids, immunosuppressives).

Already service-connected for Skin condition (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Depression (DC 9434)

In the full workup for Skin condition (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis):

1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything skin condition (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis) can lead to are free on the Skin condition (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis) page.

See what the full workup includes →
Scars (painful, unstable, or disfiguring)DC 7800–7805 • typical: 10–30%+1 secondary

What each rating level requires DC 7800–7805 - 38 CFR §4.118

10%One or two scars that are unstable or painful (DC 7804).
20%Three or four unstable or painful scars.
30%Five or more unstable or painful scars.
+10%If any single scar is BOTH unstable and painful, the VA must add 10% to the evaluation.
10–80% (DC 7800)Disfiguring scars of the head, face, or neck - rated on characteristics of disfigurement.
Separate (DC 7805)Any disabling effect of a scar NOT already counted under 7800–7804 is rated under its own diagnostic code - limitation of motion where a scar crosses a joint, nerve damage, adhesions. That is an additional rating alongside the scar one, and it is routinely left unclaimed.

Already service-connected for Scars (painful, unstable, or disfiguring) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Depression (DC 9434)

In the full workup for Scars (painful, unstable, or disfiguring):

1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything scars (painful, unstable, or disfiguring) can lead to are free on the Scars (painful, unstable, or disfiguring) page.

See what the full workup includes →

Urinary & Reproductive

Erectile dysfunction / FSADDC 7522 / 7632 • typical: 0% + SMC-K ($139.87/mo)

What each rating level requires DC 7522 + SMC-K - 38 CFR §4.115b / §3.350

0% + SMC-KUsually rated 0% under the schedule - but loss of use of a creative organ pays Special Monthly Compensation K on top of everything else, tax-free, for life. The 0% is not the answer; the SMC-K is.
Separate routeWhere there is deformity of the penis WITH loss of erectile power, DC 7522 provides a compensable schedular rating in its own right, separately from SMC-K. Worth raising if deformity is documented - it is a different question from erectile function alone.

In the full workup for Erectile dysfunction / FSAD:

13 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything erectile dysfunction / fsad can lead to are free on the Erectile dysfunction / FSAD page.

See what the full workup includes →
Urinary frequency / voiding dysfunctionDC 7512 / 7527 • typical: 10–40%

What each rating level requires DC 7512 / 7527 - 38 CFR §4.115a

20%Absorbent materials required, changed less than twice a day.
40%Absorbent materials required, changed two to four times a day.
60%An appliance is required, or absorbent materials changed more than four times a day.

In the full workup for Urinary frequency / voiding dysfunction:

4 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything urinary frequency / voiding dysfunction can lead to are free on the Urinary frequency / voiding dysfunction page.

See what the full workup includes →
Endometriosis / gynecological conditionsDC 7629 / 7618 • typical: 10–50% (100% post-hysterectomy)3 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 7629 / 7618 - 38 CFR §4.116

10%Symptoms requiring continuous treatment for control.
30%Pelvic pain or heavy bleeding not controlled by treatment.
50%Lesions involving bowel or bladder with uncontrolled pain/bleeding.
100% → 50%Hysterectomy: 100% for three months post-surgery, then 50% permanent.

Already service-connected for Endometriosis / gynecological conditions - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (DC 7319)

In the full workup for Endometriosis / gynecological conditions:

1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything endometriosis / gynecological conditions can lead to are free on the Endometriosis / gynecological conditions page.

See what the full workup includes →
Prostate conditions (cancer, BPH)DC 7528 / 7527 • typical: 100% while cancer is active; residuals after3 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 7528 / 7527 - 38 CFR §4.115b

100%Active prostate cancer (and for six months after treatment ends) - automatic.
residualsAfter remission: rated on voiding dysfunction, renal dysfunction, or ED (SMC-K).

Already service-connected for Prostate conditions (cancer, BPH) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Prostate conditions (cancer, BPH):

your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything prostate conditions (cancer, bph) can lead to are free on the Prostate conditions (cancer, BPH) page.

See what the full workup includes →

Whole-Body & Systemic

FibromyalgiaDC 5025 • typical: 10–40%5 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 5025 - 38 CFR §4.71a

10%Symptoms requiring continuous medication for control.
20%Symptoms episodic, present more than one-third of the time.
40% (max)Symptoms constant or nearly constant, and refractory to therapy.

Already service-connected for Fibromyalgia - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Migraine headaches (DC 8100)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (DC 7319)

In the full workup for Fibromyalgia:

4 pathways to claim it secondary to conditions you’re already rated for, with the wording veterans commonly file under · 1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything fibromyalgia can lead to are free on the Fibromyalgia page.

See what the full workup includes →
Chronic fatigue syndromeDC 6354 • typical: 10–100%2 secondaries

What each rating level requires DC 6354 - 38 CFR §4.88b

10%Symptoms that wax and wane, producing incapacitation of at least one but less than two weeks a year - OR symptoms controlled by continuous medication. That second route is easy to miss and needs no incapacitation at all.
20%Nearly constant symptoms that reduce routine daily activities by less than 25% of the pre-illness level, OR waxing and waning symptoms causing two to four weeks of incapacitation a year.
40%Nearly constant symptoms restricting routine daily activities to 50–75% of the pre-illness level, OR incapacitation of four to six weeks a year.
60%Nearly constant symptoms restricting routine daily activities to less than half the pre-illness level, OR incapacitation of at least six weeks a year.
100%Nearly constant symptoms so severe they restrict routine daily activities almost completely, and which may occasionally preclude self-care.

Already service-connected for Chronic fatigue syndrome - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Insomnia (DC 9413)

In the full workup for Chronic fatigue syndrome:

1 filing tip · your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything chronic fatigue syndrome can lead to are free on the Chronic fatigue syndrome page.

See what the full workup includes →
Cancer (exposure-related, presumptive)varies by site • typical: 100% while active; residuals rated after2 secondaries

What each rating level requires varies by site - 38 CFR Part 4

100%Active cancer under treatment (and typically six months after) - automatic.
residualsAfter remission: each residual (organ damage, neuropathy from chemo, scars, mental health) rates separately.

Already service-connected for Cancer (exposure-related, presumptive) - or about to file for it? Watch for the secondaries it commonly causes:

  • Erectile dysfunction / FSAD (DC 7522 / 7632)

In the full workup for Cancer (exposure-related, presumptive):

your statement drafted against these criteria, and the gaps in your own record

The criteria, the schedule’s own terms and everything cancer (exposure-related, presumptive) can lead to are free on the Cancer (exposure-related, presumptive) page.

See what the full workup includes →

Medical connections shown are established patterns from VA case law and medical literature - not a diagnosis. Discuss them with your doctor. Lima Charlie is an educational tool, not legal advice.