Diabetes Mellitus Type II (VA Rating) — DC 7913
Type II diabetes is rated by the VA under DC 7913 from 10% to 100% based on insulin needs, activity limits, and hospital visits.
Official source: ecfr.gov
Type II diabetes is a condition where your body does not manage blood sugar properly. The VA rates it under Diagnostic Code 7913 at five levels, from 10% to 100%, based on how much medication you need, how much it limits your daily activity, and how often it sends you to the hospital. Vietnam-era veterans with diabetes automatically qualify through Agent Orange presumptive service connection, with no proof of cause required.
The tiers are: 10% ($180.42 per month in 2026) when you manage diabetes with a special diet alone, no insulin or daily pills; 20% ($356.66) when you need insulin or daily medication plus a restricted diet; 40% ($795.84) when you need insulin and a restricted diet and your activities are limited by the condition; 60% ($1,435.01) when you need insulin, your activities are limited, and you have been hospitalized for blood sugar emergencies once or twice a year or see your doctor at least twice a month; and 100% ($3,938.58) when you need multiple daily insulin injections, strict diet and activity limits, and three or more hospitalizations a year or significant weight and strength loss.
Complications are rated separately and add on top of the base diabetes rating. If diabetes has caused nerve damage in your legs (peripheral neuropathy or radiculopathy), kidney problems, vision loss, or cardiovascular disease, each gets its own VA rating. Your total combined rating can be significantly higher than the diabetes percentage alone.
If you served in or near Vietnam, including Blue Water Navy veterans, Type II diabetes is an Agent Orange presumptive condition. You do not need a Nexus Letter proving your service caused your diabetes. Just file the claim with your DD-214 and current medical records.
In real life
- A Vietnam veteran on daily insulin with diabetic neuropathy receives a 40% diabetes rating plus separate ratings for each affected limb.
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Frequently asked questions about Diabetes Mellitus Type II (VA Rating)
Is Type II diabetes presumptive for Vietnam veterans?+
Yes. The VA presumes Type II diabetes is service-connected for veterans who served in or near Vietnam, including Blue Water Navy veterans. No Nexus Letter is required if you have a current diagnosis and qualifying service.
How does the VA rate diabetes?+
Under Diagnostic Code 7913 at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, or 100% based on whether you control it with diet, oral medication, or insulin, how much your activities are limited, and how often you are hospitalized.
Are diabetes complications rated separately?+
Yes. Neuropathy, kidney disease, retinopathy, and cardiovascular complications each get their own VA rating on top of the base diabetes rating, which often raises the combined rating significantly.
What is the highest VA rating for diabetes?+
100%, worth $3,938.58 per month in 2026. It applies to veterans needing multiple daily insulin injections, strict activity limits, and three or more diabetes-related hospitalizations per year.
Can I get TDIU because of diabetes?+
Yes. If your diabetes and its complications keep you from holding substantially gainful employment, you can apply for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability and be paid at the 100% rate.
Source: ecfr.gov