Anxiety — VA Rating Guide

The rating ladder

What the VA looks for at each percentage.

How to describe it (and win the rating)

• Describe your WORST days, not good ones
• Be specific: frequency of suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, nightmares
• Ritualistic behaviors, hypervigilance, isolation
• Whether hygiene, work, and relationships suffer

Evidence that helps

• mental-health treatment records
• medication list
• buddy/spouse statement on behavior changes
• any work write-ups / job loss

Next steps

Related conditions & secondary claims

Conditions medically linked to Anxiety — each can be worth a separate or secondary claim:

• PTSD — Anxiety and PTSD overlap and are rated on the same General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders.
• Depression — Anxiety and depression frequently co-occur.

Common questions

What is the VA disability rating for anxiety?

The VA rates anxiety under 38 CFR diagnostic code 9400. The rating tiers are: 30% — occasional decrease in work efficiency; depressed mood, anxiety, mild memory loss; 50% — reduced reliability & productivity; weekly+ panic, impaired judgment/memory, difficulty maintaining relationships; 70% — deficiencies in MOST areas; suicidal ideation, near-continuous panic/depression, neglect of hygiene, inability to maintain relationships; 100% — total occupational & social impairment; gross thought disorder, persistent danger to self/others, disorientation. Your exact percentage depends on the severity documented in your records and C&P exam.

How much VA disability compensation is anxiety?

Monthly pay depends on your assigned rating percentage and your dependents, not the condition alone. Anxiety can be rated from 30% to 100%. Use the free US Vet Help disability calculator for your exact 2026 monthly amount.

What evidence do I need for a anxiety VA claim?

Evidence that helps includes: mental-health treatment records; medication list; buddy/spouse statement on behavior changes; any work write-ups / job loss.

How do I get the correct rating for anxiety?

To be rated accurately: Describe your WORST days, not good ones; Be specific: frequency of suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, nightmares; Ritualistic behaviors, hypervigilance, isolation; Whether hygiene, work, and relationships suffer.