Mental health

PTSD

A trauma-related mental health condition evaluated by its occupational and social effects.

Regulatory summaries checked against eCFR current through July 9, 2026 · condition-library-2026.07.09 · record a8a8fee4aa0d

Quick rating reference

How VA may evaluate PTSD

Select a diagnostic code or shared formula to see the criteria that apply to that manifestation.

Verified summaries are labeled

Potential codesDC 9411

Verified evaluation levels0% · 10% · 30% · 50% · 70% · 100%

Rating paths shown1

Shared rating formula

General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders

VA evaluates the overall level of occupational and social impairment, supported by the complete symptom record.

Plain-language summary verified

EvaluationPlain-language criteria summary

Diagnosed without functional interference

Symptoms do not interfere with occupational and social functioning or require continuous medication.

10%

Mild or transient impairment

Symptoms reduce work efficiency during significant stress, or are controlled by continuous medication.

30%

Occasional decrease in work efficiency

Intermittent inability to perform occupational tasks, while generally functioning satisfactorily.

50%

Reduced reliability and productivity

Occupational and social impairment produces reduced reliability and productivity.

70%

Deficiencies in most areas

Impairment affects most areas such as work, school, family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood.

100%

Total occupational and social impairment

The evidence shows total occupational and social impairment.

The listed symptoms in § 4.130 are examples. VA considers the complete evidence, symptom frequency, severity, duration, remissions, and capacity for adjustment.

This reference explains the schedule; it does not predict an individual rating. VA determines the applicable code and evaluation from the complete record.

Overview

PTSD documentation may address symptoms, treatment, the relevant stressor, and effects on work, relationships, judgment, mood, and daily functioning. A diagnosis and service connection are separate questions from severity.

What VA measures

PTSD is evaluated under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. The formula uses levels of occupational and social impairment, supported by the overall symptom record rather than a simple symptom count.

Occupational and social impairment

Frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms

Ability to function during periods of remission

Effects on judgment, thinking, mood, relationships, and self-care

Evidence that may be useful

Mental health diagnosis and treatment notes
Relevant service or personnel records
Personal statement describing the stressor and current effects
Statements from family, friends, or people who served with you
Employment or accommodation information when relevant

Helpful documentation habits

Describe changes from your usual functioning
Give concrete examples from work, home, and relationships
Include treatment frequency, medication, and side effects
Seek immediate help for a mental health crisis rather than relying on this tool

Common preparation gaps

Treating a checklist as a substitute for a clinical assessment
Minimizing symptoms because they vary day to day
Including unnecessary graphic detail when dates, context, and effects would be sufficient

Diagnostic-code map

A diagnosis or body part can involve more than one code. The applicable code depends on the medical findings and manifestations in the record.

DC 9411§ 4.130

Posttraumatic stress disorder

Evaluated under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders using overall occupational and social impairment.

Official criteria