Diabetes mellitus — VA Rating Guide

The rating ladder

What the VA looks for at each percentage.

How to describe it (and win the rating)

• 'Regulation of activities' (medically ordered avoidance of strenuous activity) is the key 40% trigger — make sure it's documented
• List every complication (neuropathy, retinopathy, kidney) — each may be separately ratable

Evidence that helps

• endocrinology notes
• medication list showing insulin
• doctor's note on activity restriction

Next steps

Related conditions & secondary claims

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

• Radiculopathy — Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a classic complication; each affected extremity is separately ratable.
• Hypertension — Diabetes and hypertension are strongly comorbid via renal and vascular mechanisms.

Common questions

What is the VA disability rating for diabetes mellitus?

The VA rates diabetes mellitus under 38 CFR diagnostic code 7913. The rating tiers are: 20% — insulin and restricted diet, OR oral hypoglycemic and restricted diet; 40% — insulin, restricted diet, AND regulation of activities; 60% — insulin, restricted diet, regulation of activities, PLUS episodes of ketoacidosis/hypoglycemia and complications; 100% — multiple daily insulin injections, restricted diet, regulation of activities, with episodes and progressive weight loss. Your exact percentage depends on the severity documented in your records and C&P exam.

How much VA disability compensation is diabetes mellitus?

Monthly pay depends on your assigned rating percentage and your dependents, not the condition alone. Diabetes mellitus can be rated from 20% to 100%. Use the free US Vet Help disability calculator for your exact 2026 monthly amount.

What evidence do I need for a diabetes mellitus VA claim?

Evidence that helps includes: endocrinology notes; medication list showing insulin; doctor's note on activity restriction.

How do I get the correct rating for diabetes mellitus?

To be rated accurately: 'Regulation of activities' (medically ordered avoidance of strenuous activity) is the key 40% trigger — make sure it's documented; List every complication (neuropathy, retinopathy, kidney) — each may be separately ratable.