★ Skin
Psoriasis VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7816
Overview
DC 7816 mirrors DC 7806's structure.
Biologic therapy (e.g., adalimumab) qualifies as 'systemic immunosuppressive therapy' for rating purposes.
Psoriatic arthritis is rated separately under DC 5099-5002.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: documented in-service onset.
- Secondary to PTSD or other stress-related triggers in some cases.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7816
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Less than 5% of total body or exposed area; no systemic therapy in past 12 months. |
| 10% | 5–20% of body or exposed area; or intermittent systemic therapy < 6 weeks total in past 12 months. |
| 30% | 20–40% of body or exposed area; or systemic therapy 6+ weeks (not constant) in past 12 months. |
| 60% | More than 40% of body or exposed area; or constant/near-constant systemic therapy in past 12 months. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Dermatology notes documenting BSA.
- Medication records including biologic therapy.
- Photographs.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Psoriasis:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Psoriasis 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.