Eye/VisionDC 6027-6028
Cataracts
Cataracts are rated under DC 6027 (traumatic) and DC 6028 (senile and others). A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye that causes decreased vision. The condition is rated based on the visual impairment rating system or incapacitating episodes, whichever produces the higher rating. If surgery is performed and the lens is NOT replaced, the veteran is instead rated under the aphakia schedule (DC 6029), which has a minimum 30% rating.
VA Rating Levels
0%
Cataracts present but corrected vision remains at 20/40 or better in both eyes.
10%
Visual impairment meets compensable level based on corrected vision, OR 1-2 incapacitating episodes per year requiring physician treatment.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Cataracts are a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to mustard gas.
- →If your cataract surgery removed the lens without replacing it (aphakia), you qualify for a minimum 30% rating under DC 6029, and your visual impairment is rated one step worse than measured.
- →Cataracts are a very common secondary condition to diabetes, eye trauma, and prolonged corticosteroid use. If your cataracts developed after a service-connected condition, pursue a secondary claim.
- →Even after successful cataract surgery with lens replacement, if you have residual vision issues, those can still be rated based on the visual impairment system.
- →Track all eye treatment visits, as incapacitating episodes (requiring physician treatment) may produce a higher rating than the visual impairment approach.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.79, Diagnostic Codes 6027-6028