Incomplete AV Block

DC 7013Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7013

A partial delay or intermittent failure of electrical signal conduction between the upper and lower chambers of the heart. Includes first-degree and second-degree (Mobitz type I and type II) AV blocks. The VA rates incomplete AV block based on symptoms, need for a pacemaker, and workload capacity in METs.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7013

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7013. 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 chronic congestive heart failure, or your workload capacity is 3 METs or less with symptoms, or your ejection fraction is less than 30 percent.

What the VA looks for

Chronic congestive heart failure
Workload capacity of 3 METs or less
Left ventricular ejection fraction less than 30%
Complete pacemaker dependence
Severe exercise limitation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not differentiating between the types of AV block — Mobitz type II is more serious than type I (Wenckebach) and more likely to progress to complete block. Ensure your EKG reports specify the type.
⚠Not getting Holter monitoring to capture intermittent episodes — AV block may not be present on a single EKG. Extended monitoring (24-72 hour Holter or event monitor) captures the true frequency of conduction delays.
⚠Not documenting symptoms of near-syncope or syncope — lightheadedness, dizziness, and fainting episodes caused by dropped heartbeats are key evidence for functional impact.
⚠Not requesting re-evaluation if the block progresses — incomplete AV block can worsen over time, and periodic re-assessment ensures your rating reflects current severity.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Heart Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Incomplete AV Block

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7013

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have chronic congestive heart failure, or your workload capacity is 3 METs or less with symptoms, or your ejection fraction is less than 30 percent.

What the VA looks for

Chronic congestive heart failure
Workload capacity of 3 METs or less
Left ventricular ejection fraction less than 30%
Complete pacemaker dependence
Severe exercise limitation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not differentiating between the types of AV block — Mobitz type II is more serious than type I (Wenckebach) and more likely to progress to complete block. Ensure your EKG reports specify the type.

⚠Not getting Holter monitoring to capture intermittent episodes — AV block may not be present on a single EKG. Extended monitoring (24-72 hour Holter or event monitor) captures the true frequency of conduction delays.

⚠Not documenting symptoms of near-syncope or syncope — lightheadedness, dizziness, and fainting episodes caused by dropped heartbeats are key evidence for functional impact.

⚠Not requesting re-evaluation if the block progresses — incomplete AV block can worsen over time, and periodic re-assessment ensures your rating reflects current severity.