Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency)
Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.119, Diagnostic Code 7911, from 20% to 60% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 60% rating requires: Four or more crises during the past year. Most claims establish the 20% or 40% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7911 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 20%
- Maximum rating
- 60%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.119
- Body system
- Endocrine System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
20%, 40%, 60%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency)?
One or two crises during the past year, or; two to four episodes during the past year, or; weakness and fatigability, or; corticosteroid therapy required for control
Three crises during the past year, or; five or more episodes during the past year
Four or more crises during the past year
“Three crises during the past year, or; five or more episodes during the past year”
Common Questions About Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency)?
The VA rates Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) under Diagnostic Code 7911 at 20%, 40%, 60%. The minimum 20% rating requires: One or two crises during the past year, or; two to four episodes during the past year, or; weakness and fatigability, or; corticosteroid therapy required for control. The maximum 60% rating requires: Four or more crises during the past year.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency)?
The VA rates Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7911, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.119. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 20% and a 60% rating for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency)?
A 20% rating requires: One or two crises during the past year, or; two to four episodes during the past year, or; weakness and fatigability, or; corticosteroid therapy required for control. A 60% rating requires: Four or more crises during the past year. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency)?
Service connection for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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