★ Mental Health
Eating Disorders VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.130, Diagnostic Codes 9520 / 9521
Overview
Anorexia nervosa (DC 9520) and bulimia nervosa (DC 9521) are rated under their own schedule rather than the General Mental Health Formula.
Weight loss below the minimum normal weight, frequency of binge/purge cycles, and need for inpatient care drive the rating.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: documented in-service onset.
- Secondary to PTSD or depression in some cases.
- Aggravation of pre-existing eating disorder by service.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.130, Diagnostic Codes 9520 / 9521
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Self-induced weight loss to less than 85% of expected minimum, with mild physical complications, but otherwise able to function. |
| 30% | Self-induced weight loss to less than 85% of expected minimum, with significant physiological complications. |
| 60% | Self-induced weight loss to less than 85% of expected minimum, with incapacitating episodes of at least 6 weeks total per year. |
| 100% | Self-induced weight loss to less than 80% of expected minimum, with incapacitating episodes of at least 6 weeks total per year, and requiring inpatient care more than twice yearly. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Treatment program records.
- Weight history relative to baseline.
- Documentation of hospitalizations for eating disorder care.
- Mental health treatment notes.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Eating Disorders:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Eating Disorders claim or denial?
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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.