ALS (Progressive Form)

DC 8022Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8022

A progressive neurodegenerative disease that destroys motor neurons, causing muscle weakness, wasting, and eventual paralysis. ALS is presumptively service-connected for all veterans with 90 or more days of continuous active service. The VA rates ALS at 100% from the date of diagnosis.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 8022

Rating range

100% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8022. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have been diagnosed with ALS. The VA assigns a 100% rating from the date of diagnosis because ALS is a progressive, fatal disease. There is no lower rating for ALS — any confirmed diagnosis receives 100%.

What the VA looks for

Confirmed ALS diagnosis by a neurologist using El Escorial criteria
EMG and nerve conduction studies showing widespread denervation
Progressive upper and lower motor neuron signs on examination
Military service records showing 90+ days of continuous active service
Documentation of progressive muscle weakness and functional decline

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing about presumptive service connection — ALS is presumptively connected to service for ANY veteran with 90 or more days of continuous active service, regardless of MOS, deployment, or exposure history. No nexus letter is needed.
⚠Not filing immediately upon diagnosis — the 100% rating is effective from the date of claim, so filing early maximizes back pay. An Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966) should be submitted immediately.
⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) — as ALS progresses, veterans typically qualify for multiple levels of SMC for loss of use of extremities, aid and attendance, and housebound status.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — ALS causes respiratory failure, dysphagia, depression, and other conditions that may qualify for additional SMC benefits.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
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…

ALS (Progressive Form)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8022

Rating range

100% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Confirmed ALS diagnosis by a neurologist using El Escorial criteria
EMG and nerve conduction studies showing widespread denervation
Progressive upper and lower motor neuron signs on examination
Military service records showing 90+ days of continuous active service
Documentation of progressive muscle weakness and functional decline

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing about presumptive service connection — ALS is presumptively connected to service for ANY veteran with 90 or more days of continuous active service, regardless of MOS, deployment, or exposure history. No nexus letter is needed.

⚠Not filing immediately upon diagnosis — the 100% rating is effective from the date of claim, so filing early maximizes back pay. An Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966) should be submitted immediately.

⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) — as ALS progresses, veterans typically qualify for multiple levels of SMC for loss of use of extremities, aid and attendance, and housebound status.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — ALS causes respiratory failure, dysphagia, depression, and other conditions that may qualify for additional SMC benefits.