VA Disability Conditions Database

How Ratings Are Determined

The VA rates each service-connected condition using specific criteria in 38 C.F.R. Part 4 — the Schedule for Rating Disabilities. A C&P examiner evaluates your symptoms against the rating schedule for your diagnostic code and assigns the percentage that best matches your level of impairment. Ratings go from 0% (diagnosed, but minimal symptoms) to 100% (total disability). Each rating level corresponds to a specific monthly compensation amount.

Secondary Conditions

Under 38 C.F.R. § 3.310, you can claim conditions caused or aggravated by an already service-connected disability. For example, a veteran with service-connected diabetes may claim peripheral neuropathy, erectile dysfunction, or kidney disease as secondary conditions. Secondary conditions receive their own ratings, which are combined with your existing ratings using VA math (38 C.F.R. § 4.25).

The Pyramiding Rule

38 C.F.R. § 4.14 prohibits "pyramiding" — assigning separate ratings for the same disability manifestation under multiple diagnostic codes. All mental health conditions (PTSD, depression, anxiety) share a single rating under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. However, conditions with distinct symptoms can be rated separately, even when they affect the same body system.

DBQ Forms and Evidence

Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) are standardized medical forms the VA uses to evaluate claims. Each body system has specific DBQ forms designed to capture the exact information needed for rating. Veterans can have private physicians complete DBQs, which can expedite the claims process. Strong claims also include nexus letters, service treatment records, and buddy statements supporting service connection.