Optic neuropathy (DC 6026)

Body system: EyeRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.79

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.