The rating ladder
What the VA looks for at each percentage.
How to describe it (and win the rating)
- Document the frequency of exacerbations/attacks per year, since the tier steps (infrequent vs. frequent vs. numerous) turn on frequency.
- Describe your health status during remissions (e.g., 'only fair'), as this distinguishes 60% from lower tiers.
- Record objective malnutrition indicators: weight loss, low albumin/protein, BMI trends.
- Report anemia findings (labs, hemoglobin/hematocrit) and general debility for the 100% tier.
- Note any serious complications such as liver abscess, which supports the 100% level.
Evidence that helps
- Colonoscopy/endoscopy reports confirming ulcerative colitis diagnosis and disease severity
- Treatment records showing medication regimen (e.g., corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, biologics)
- Documented dates and frequency of exacerbations/flare-ups
- Weight logs and body mass index history showing malnutrition
- Lab results: hemoglobin/hematocrit (anemia), albumin/total protein (malnutrition), CBC
- GI specialist notes describing health during remission periods
- Records of any complications (e.g., liver abscess, hospitalizations)
Next steps
Related conditions & secondary claims
Conditions medically linked to Ulcerative Colitis — each can be worth a separate or secondary claim:
- IBS — Both are chronic GI conditions and are frequently claimed together.
- Hemorrhoids — Chronic diarrhea and straining from colitis can cause hemorrhoids.
- GERD — GI conditions commonly co-exist.
Common questions
What is the VA disability rating for ulcerative colitis?
The VA rates ulcerative colitis under 38 CFR diagnostic code 7323. The rating tiers are: 10% — Moderate; infrequent exacerbations.; 30% — Moderately severe; frequent exacerbations.; 60% — Severe; numerous attacks a year and malnutrition, health only fair during remissions.; 100% — Pronounced; resulting in marked malnutrition, anemia, and general debility, or with serious complication as liver abscess.. Your exact percentage depends on the severity documented in your records and C&P exam.
How much VA disability compensation is ulcerative colitis?
Monthly pay depends on your assigned rating percentage and your dependents, not the condition alone. Ulcerative Colitis can be rated from 10% to 100%. Use the free US Vet Help disability calculator for your exact 2026 monthly amount.
What evidence do I need for a ulcerative colitis VA claim?
Evidence that helps includes: Colonoscopy/endoscopy reports confirming ulcerative colitis diagnosis and disease severity; Treatment records showing medication regimen (e.g., corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, biologics); Documented dates and frequency of exacerbations/flare-ups; Weight logs and body mass index history showing malnutrition; Lab results: hemoglobin/hematocrit (anemia), albumin/total protein (malnutrition), CBC; GI specialist notes describing health during remission periods; Records of any complications (e.g., liver abscess, hospitalizations).
How do I get the correct rating for ulcerative colitis?
To be rated accurately: Document the frequency of exacerbations/attacks per year, since the tier steps (infrequent vs. frequent vs. numerous) turn on frequency.; Describe your health status during remissions (e.g., 'only fair'), as this distinguishes 60% from lower tiers.; Record objective malnutrition indicators: weight loss, low albumin/protein, BMI trends.; Report anemia findings (labs, hemoglobin/hematocrit) and general debility for the 100% tier.; Note any serious complications such as liver abscess, which supports the 100% level..
Wondering if you're rated too low for this? We read your VA file and check.
Find my claim opportunities →Educational summary of the 38 CFR Part 4 criteria — simplified, not the full regulation, and not medical or legal advice. The VA rates on your specific evidence. Describe your worst days honestly; never exaggerate. Confirm criteria in 38 CFR Part 4. US Vet Help is not affiliated with the VA and does not file claims.