Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders are rated under 38 CFR § 4.130, Diagnostic Code 9203. The VA uses the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders and focuses on occupational and social impairment.
VA Rating Levels
Mild symptoms controlled by medication; only occasional decrease in work efficiency during periods of significant stress.
Occasional decrease in work efficiency due to symptoms such as depressed mood, anxiety, or mild memory loss.
Reduced reliability and productivity; flattened affect, impaired judgment, difficulty maintaining effective relationships.
Deficiencies in most areas of daily functioning; near-continuous panic or depression, suicidal ideation, near-continuous hallucinations/delusions.
Total occupational and social impairment; persistent hallucinations or delusions, inability to perform basic self-care, severe memory loss.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Describe how symptoms affect daily activities, not just psychiatric symptoms
- →Hospitalizations are strong evidence for higher ratings
- →TDIU (Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability) is common with severe psychotic disorders
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR § 4.130, Diagnostic Code 9203