EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Thyroid Conditions VA Disability Rating
DC 7900-7903 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.119 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.12
OVERVIEW
Thyroid conditions include hyperthyroidism (DC 7900), toxic or nontoxic goiter (DC 7901/7902), and hypothyroidism (DC 7903). Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid condition in veterans and is rated based on symptoms and treatment. Thyroid conditions may be related to radiation exposure, toxic exposure, or autoimmune processes triggered by service. Hashimoto thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.
RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)
100% -- Hypothyroidism with myxedema crisis or severe cognitive/cardiovascular complications
Extremely rare. Requires hospitalization-level thyroid failure.
60% -- Hypothyroidism with muscular weakness, cardiovascular involvement, and mental sluggishness
Significant systemic effects despite treatment.
30% -- Hypothyroidism with fatigability, constipation, and mental sluggishness
Symptoms present despite medication therapy.
10% -- Hypothyroidism requiring continuous medication for control (DC 7903)
Controlled with levothyroxine but medication required.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Lab work showing TSH, Free T3, and Free T4 levels (current and historical)
-Endocrinology records documenting diagnosis and medication adjustments
-Service records showing radiation exposure, toxic exposure, or environmental factors
-Documentation of symptoms despite medication: fatigue, weight changes, cognitive problems, cold intolerance
-Medication records showing thyroid hormone replacement
SECONDARY CONDITIONS (3 MAPPED)
DC 9434
Hypothyroidism directly causes depressive symptoms through hormonal imbalance.
DC N/A (documented as symptom)
Thyroid dysfunction causes metabolic changes leading to weight gain, which stresses joints.
DC 7005
Untreated hypothyroidism increases cardiovascular risk through lipid changes.
C&P EXAM TIPS (4)
1.Even if your thyroid is controlled with medication, you still qualify for at least 10% if continuous medication is required.
2.Document any symptoms that persist DESPITE medication: fatigue, brain fog, weight changes, cold intolerance.
3.Bring your full lab history showing TSH and thyroid hormone levels over time. Fluctuating levels show the condition is not fully controlled.
4.If you have fatigue and cognitive issues despite normal labs, document these symptoms thoroughly.
DOLLAR IMPACT
Hypothyroidism at 30% (with symptoms despite medication) pays $552.47/mo. Combined with secondary depression (50%) and cardiovascular effects, thyroid conditions can anchor a significant combined rating.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026