Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

DC 8017Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8017

A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing loss of muscle control. ALS is a presumptive condition for all veterans with 90+ days of active service and is automatically rated at 100% from the date of diagnosis.

Rating Levels

The minimum and only rating. ALS is rated at 100% from the date of diagnosis.

What the VA looks for

Confirmed ALS diagnosis by neurologist
Documentation of progressive muscle weakness
EMG/nerve conduction studies supporting diagnosis
Service records showing 90+ days of active duty

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing that ALS is presumptive for ALL veterans with 90+ days of active service — no nexus letter needed.
⚠Not filing as soon as possible after diagnosis — the effective date is the date the claim is filed or the date of diagnosis, whichever is later.
⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for aid and attendance or housebound benefits as the disease progresses.
⚠Not filing for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits for survivors — ALS is a service-connected cause of death for presumptive cases.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Central Nervous System and Neuromuscular Diseases

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…