★ Multi-System
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.88b, Diagnostic Code 6354
Overview
CFS is a Gulf War presumptive condition under 38 CFR § 3.317 for SW Asia veterans.
Diagnosis requires the standard CDC criteria: new-onset debilitating fatigue, post-exertional malaise, unrefreshing sleep, plus other symptoms.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Presumptive for Gulf War theater veterans.
- Direct for non-Gulf War veterans with documented onset.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.88b, Diagnostic Code 6354
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Symptoms wax and wane; periods of incapacitation total 1–2 weeks/year; or symptoms controlled by continuous medication. |
| 20% | Symptoms restrict routine daily activities by less than 25%; or periods of incapacitation total 2–4 weeks/year. |
| 40% | Symptoms restrict routine daily activities by 50% to 75%; or periods of incapacitation total 4–6 weeks/year. |
| 60% | Symptoms restrict routine daily activities to less than 50% of pre-illness level; or symptoms wax and wane resulting in periods of incapacitation of at least 6 weeks total per year. |
| 100% | Symptoms restrict routine daily activities to less than 50% of pre-illness level, AND nearly continuous; or symptoms restricting daily activities to less than 50% AND requiring continuous bed rest. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Detailed activity log.
- Specialist evaluation.
- Records of any periods of incapacitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Chronic Fatigue Syndrome claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.