Bulimia nervosa (DC 9521)

Body system: Mental DisordersRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.130DBQ: DBQ PSYCH Eating Disorders

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder where you binge eat and then try to prevent weight gain through vomiting, laxatives, or other methods. The VA rates bulimia from 0% to 100% based on how much weight you've lost, how often you have episodes that keep you from functioning normally, and whether you need hospitalization. Higher ratings go to veterans who've lost significant weight and have frequent periods where they can't work or function in daily life.

Rating levels

  • 100% — Bulimia nervosa is rated under the dedicated Rating Formula for Eating Disorders per 38 CFR §4.130 (which also applies to DC 9520 anorexia nervosa), NOT the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. Note: an "incapacitating episode" for this formula is a period of acute signs/symptoms severe enough to require bed rest and treatment by a physician.
  • 60% — Bulimia nervosa is rated under the dedicated Rating Formula for Eating Disorders per 38 CFR §4.130 (which also applies to DC 9520 anorexia nervosa), NOT the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. Note: an "incapacitating episode" for this formula is a period of acute signs/symptoms severe enough to require bed rest and treatment by a physician.
  • 30% — Bulimia nervosa is rated under the dedicated Rating Formula for Eating Disorders per 38 CFR §4.130 (which also applies to DC 9520 anorexia nervosa), NOT the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. Note: an "incapacitating episode" for this formula is a period of acute signs/symptoms severe enough to require bed rest and treatment by a physician.
  • 10% — Bulimia nervosa is rated under the dedicated Rating Formula for Eating Disorders per 38 CFR §4.130 (which also applies to DC 9520 anorexia nervosa), NOT the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. Note: an "incapacitating episode" for this formula is a period of acute signs/symptoms severe enough to require bed rest and treatment by a physician.
  • 0% — Bulimia nervosa is rated under the dedicated Rating Formula for Eating Disorders per 38 CFR §4.130 (which also applies to DC 9520 anorexia nervosa), NOT the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. Note: an "incapacitating episode" for this formula is a period of acute signs/symptoms severe enough to require bed rest and treatment by a physician.

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.