Hypothyroidism — VA Rating Guide

The rating ladder

What the VA looks for at each percentage.

How to describe it (and win the rating)

• The rating schedule for DC 7903 was revised effective June 7, 2021. Confirm which criteria version applies: claims pending on or filed after that date generally use the current (revised) criteria; older effective periods may be evaluated under the prior criteria (which used 10/30/60/100% tiers).
• Under the CURRENT criteria there are only two tiers directly under 7903: 10% (continuous medication required) and 30% (inadequately treated/persisting symptoms). Do not overstate available tiers.
• Complications or residuals of hypothyroidism (e.g., cardiovascular, eye, mental, muscular) are now rated under the diagnostic codes appropriate to the affected body system, not lumped into a single high 7903 percentage. Screen for separately ratable residuals.
• Confirm the exact language and tier structure against the version of 38 CFR 4.119 in force for the relevant appeal period rather than relying on memory.

Evidence that helps

• Endocrinology or primary care records confirming the hypothyroidism diagnosis
• Prescription records / medication list showing continuous thyroid hormone replacement (e.g., levothyroxine)
• Laboratory results (TSH, free T4, free T3) showing thyroid function and adequacy of control
• Treatment notes documenting persistence of symptoms despite therapy (for 30% inadequately-treated finding)
• Records identifying any complications or residuals of hypothyroidism affecting other body systems for potential separate evaluation
• VA examination (DBQ for thyroid/endocrine conditions) addressing current criteria

Next steps

Related conditions & secondary claims

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

• Diabetes — Both are endocrine conditions and often occur together.
• Depression — Hypothyroidism commonly causes fatigue and depressive symptoms.

Common questions

What is the VA disability rating for hypothyroidism?

The VA rates hypothyroidism under 38 CFR diagnostic code 7903. The rating tiers are: 10% — Hypothyroidism with continuous medication required for control (i.e., the veteran takes thyroid replacement medication such as levothyroxine to control the condition, without the more severe findings below).; 30% — Hypothyroidism, with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism and objective evidence of hypothyroidism due to inadequately treated hypothyroidism (that is, symptoms persist despite treatment). Under the current revised criteria (effective June 7, 2021), this reflects hypothyroidism with residual symptoms not fully controlled by medication.. Your exact percentage depends on the severity documented in your records and C&P exam.

How much VA disability compensation is hypothyroidism?

Monthly pay depends on your assigned rating percentage and your dependents, not the condition alone. Hypothyroidism can be rated from 10% to 30%. Use the free US Vet Help disability calculator for your exact 2026 monthly amount.

What evidence do I need for a hypothyroidism VA claim?

Evidence that helps includes: Endocrinology or primary care records confirming the hypothyroidism diagnosis; Prescription records / medication list showing continuous thyroid hormone replacement (e.g., levothyroxine); Laboratory results (TSH, free T4, free T3) showing thyroid function and adequacy of control; Treatment notes documenting persistence of symptoms despite therapy (for 30% inadequately-treated finding); Records identifying any complications or residuals of hypothyroidism affecting other body systems for potential separate evaluation; VA examination (DBQ for thyroid/endocrine conditions) addressing current criteria.

How do I get the correct rating for hypothyroidism?

To be rated accurately: The rating schedule for DC 7903 was revised effective June 7, 2021. Confirm which criteria version applies: claims pending on or filed after that date generally use the current (revised) criteria; older effective periods may be evaluated under the prior criteria (which used 10/30/60/100% tiers).; Under the CURRENT criteria there are only two tiers directly under 7903: 10% (continuous medication required) and 30% (inadequately treated/persisting symptoms). Do not overstate available tiers.; Complications or residuals of hypothyroidism (e.g., cardiovascular, eye, mental, muscular) are now rated under the diagnostic codes appropriate to the affected body system, not lumped into a single high 7903 percentage. Screen for separately ratable residuals.; Confirm the exact language and tier structure against the version of 38 CFR 4.119 in force for the relevant appeal period rather than relying on memory..