Diagnostic Code 9434
Mental Disorders
Max Rating: 100%
VA Disability Rating Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder
The Department of Veterans Affairs rates Major Depressive Disorder under 38 CFR Book C (Diagnostic Code 9434). Compensation ratings are determined by the severity of functional impairment and objective medical evidence.
Title 38 CFR Statutory Rating Schedule
Source: eCFR Part 4| Rating | Required Diagnostic Symptoms & Severity |
|---|---|
| 100% | Total occupational and social impairment: gross impairment in thought processes, persistent danger to self/others, inability to perform ADLs. |
| 70% | Deficiencies in most areas: suicidal ideation, near-continuous depression affecting ability to function, impaired impulse control, inability to maintain relationships. |
| 50% | Reduced reliability and productivity due to flattened affect, panic attacks >1x/week, memory impairment, disturbances of motivation and mood, difficulty maintaining relationships. |
| 30% | Occasional decrease in work efficiency with intermittent inability to perform tasks, though generally functioning satisfactorily. |
| 10% | Mild or transient symptoms which decrease work efficiency only during periods of significant stress, or controlled by continuous medication. |
| 0% | Formally diagnosed but symptoms not severe enough to interfere with occupational/social functioning or require continuous medication. |
Statutory Secondary Service Connections for Major Depressive Disorder
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA DC 6602)
Confidence: 80%
Depression-induced physical inactivity, weight gain, altered REM sleep architecture, and sedating medications contribute to nocturnal airway collapse.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (DC 6354)
Confidence: 80%
Shared neuroendocrine dysregulation and neuroinflammation cause persistent physical and cognitive fatigue secondary to depression.
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