Visual Acuity Loss (Central Vision Impairment)
Central visual acuity impairment is rated using the VA's visual acuity rating tables under 38 CFR 4.79. The VA measures corrected distance vision (with glasses or contacts) on a 20/20 scale, where lower numbers indicate worse vision. Both eyes are evaluated together using a combination table. Normal vision for VA purposes is 20/40. If only one eye is examined, the other is assumed to have 20/40 vision. If only one eye is service-connected, the other is treated as 20/40 unless both eyes have vision of 20/200 or worse or peripheral fields of 20 degrees or less. A special rule applies when corrected distance and near vision differ by two or more steps in the same eye, in which case the corrected distance vision is rated one step worse.
VA Rating Levels
Both eyes have corrected vision of 20/40 or better.
Corrected vision of 20/50 in one eye with 20/40 or better in the other, or 20/70 in one eye with 20/40 in the other.
Moderate impairment. For example, 20/70 in both eyes, or 20/200 in one eye with 20/40 in the other. If only one eye is service-connected for visual impairment, the maximum combined visual impairment rating for that eye cannot exceed 30%.
Total blindness in both eyes (5/200 or less), or both eyes removed. Ratings of 20% through 90% exist, determined by the mathematical combination of both eyes' Roman numeral designations on the VA rating table. The veteran may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation and Specially Adapted Housing.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Your rating is based on corrected distance vision, meaning vision with glasses or contacts. If your corrected vision is good in both eyes, your rating will be low even if uncorrected vision is poor.
- →If the diopter difference between your two eyes exceeds 3.0, the worst eye can be rated on uncorrected vision, but only if both eyes are service-connected for visual impairment.
- →If a service-connected eye has been removed and a prosthesis cannot be used, your rating is increased by 10% (real math, not VA math), up to a maximum of 100%. A separate disfigurement rating may also apply.
- →Total blindness in one or both eyes qualifies for Special Monthly Compensation. Vision of 20/200 or worse in both eyes may also qualify for Specially Adapted Housing.
- →Request an Eye Conditions DBQ from an optometrist or ophthalmologist to ensure both visual acuity and all other measurements are properly captured.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.79, Diagnostic Codes 6061-6079