Depression VA Rating Guide

Overview

A mood disorder causing persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest, commonly affecting veterans dealing with service-related trauma, adjustment difficulties, or chronic pain conditions.

• VA Disability Code: 9434
• ICD Code: F32.9
• Category: Mental Health

Rating Percentages & Criteria

100% Rating

Criteria: Total occupational and social impairment

Examples:

• Unable to maintain personal hygiene
• Cannot function in society
• Persistent danger to self or others

70% Rating

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

Examples:

• Suicidal ideation
• Unable to maintain employment
• Severe relationship problems

50% Rating

Criteria: Occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity

Examples:

• Frequent panic attacks
• Memory impairment
• Difficulty maintaining relationships

30% Rating

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

Examples:

• Depressed mood
• Chronic sleep impairment
• Mild memory loss

10% Rating

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

Examples:

• Symptoms controlled by medication
• Mild symptoms during stress

0% Rating

Criteria: Diagnosed mental condition but symptoms not severe

Examples:

• Minimal symptoms
• No functional impairment

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Persistent sad or empty mood
• Loss of interest in activities
• Significant weight changes
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Restlessness or slowed behavior

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Medical records documenting depression diagnosis
• Mental health treatment records
• Medication history
• VA DBQ for mental health
• Personal statement describing symptoms
• Buddy statements from family or friends

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Anxiety (Strong Connection)

Depression and anxiety frequently co-occur and share neurological pathways

Sleep Apnea (Moderate Connection)

Depression-related sleep disturbances can contribute to sleep disorders

Hypertension (Moderate Connection)

Chronic stress from depression can lead to elevated blood pressure

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

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

• Be honest about severity of symptoms
• Describe your worst days, not your best
• Explain impact on work and relationships
• Bring treatment records and medication list
• Don't minimize symptoms out of embarrassment

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim both PTSD and depression?

The VA will typically rate all mental health conditions under one diagnostic code, using whichever gives the highest rating.

Do I need to be in treatment to claim depression?

No, but treatment records strengthen your claim and help document severity.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Depression:

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 - Depression 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:

• Anxiety VA Rating Guide
• Sleep Apnea VA Rating Guide
• Hypertension VA Rating Guide