Anxiety VA Rating Guide

Overview

A mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, or nervousness, commonly affecting veterans dealing with service-related stress, trauma, or adjustment challenges.

• VA Disability Code: 9400
• ICD Code: F41.9
• Category: Mental Health

Rating Percentages & Criteria

100% Rating

Criteria: Total occupational and social impairment

Examples:

• Cannot function in society
• Complete isolation
• Persistent danger to self

70% Rating

Criteria: Occupational and social impairment, with deficiencies in most areas

Examples:

• Cannot maintain employment
• Severe panic attacks
• Major relationship problems

50% Rating

Criteria: Occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity

Examples:

• Frequent panic attacks
• Difficulty with complex tasks
• Relationship difficulties

30% Rating

Criteria: Occupational and social impairment with occasional decrease in work efficiency

Examples:

• Weekly panic attacks
• Chronic sleep problems
• Occasional work difficulties

10% Rating

Criteria: Occupational and social impairment due to mild or transient symptoms

Examples:

• Symptoms controlled by medication
• Mild anxiety during stress

0% Rating

Criteria: Diagnosed but minimal symptoms

Examples:

• No functional impairment

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Excessive worry or fear
• Restlessness or feeling on edge
• Difficulty concentrating
• Muscle tension
• Sleep disturbances
• Irritability
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating or trembling
• Fatigue
• Panic attacks

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Medical records documenting anxiety diagnosis
• Mental health treatment records
• Medication history
• VA DBQ for mental health
• Personal statement describing symptoms

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Depression (Strong Connection)

Anxiety and depression commonly occur together

Migraines (Strong Connection)

Anxiety and stress are common migraine triggers

GERD (Moderate Connection)

Anxiety can worsen digestive issues and acid reflux

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

Prepare for your C&P exam with these strategic tips:

• Describe frequency and severity of panic attacks
• Explain impact on daily functioning
• Be honest about avoidance behaviors
• Bring symptom journal if available
• Note physical symptoms of anxiety

Frequently Asked Questions

Are panic attacks required for an anxiety rating?

No. While panic attacks are mentioned in the rating criteria, other anxiety symptoms can also justify a rating.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Anxiety:

1. Document everything - Every medical visit, treatment, and symptom counts
2. Get a nexus letter - A medical opinion linking your condition to service is crucial
3. Be thorough - Don't downplay your symptoms in your claim
4. Track progression - Show how the condition has worsened over time
5. Claim secondary conditions - Anxiety often causes other disabilities

Ready to File Your Claim?

The VA disability system is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. We help veterans understand their benefits, gather strong evidence, and maximize their ratings.

Related Rating Guides:

• Depression VA Rating Guide
• Migraines VA Rating Guide
• GERD VA Rating Guide