Optic neuropathy (DC 6026)

Body system: EyeRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.79DBQ: DBQ OPHTH Eyes

Optic neuropathy is damage to the optic nerve, the nerve that carries visual information from your eye to your brain. The VA rates this condition under 38 CFR § 4.79 based entirely on the resulting visual impairment, there is no separate Incapacitating Episodes path for optic neuropathy. The rating comes from whichever vision-loss code best captures your deficit: visual acuity (DCs 6066-6081), visual field defects (DC 6080), or eye-muscle function (DC 6090). Ratings can range from 0% to 100% depending on how severe the visual impairment is, including total blindness ratings if both eyes are severely affected.

Rating levels

  • -1% — DC 6026 does not have its own rating ladder. The VA rates optic neuropathy entirely on the resulting visual impairment under 38 CFR § 4.79. Visual acuity is rated under DCs 6066-6081 (chart-based ratings using each eye's corrected vision). Visual field defects are rated under DC 6080 (perimetry test, percentage of visual field retained). Eye-muscle function deficits are rated under DC 6090. Ratings can reach 100% in cases of total blindness or near-total visual impairment in both eyes. Unlike DCs 6000-6009 and 6012-6018, no Incapacitating Episodes treatment-visit ladder applies to optic neuropathy.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.