Restless Legs Syndrome

DC 8620Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8620

A nervous system disorder that causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, usually because of uncomfortable sensations. The VA rates restless legs syndrome based on how often symptoms occur and how much they affect your sleep and daily life.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 8620

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8620. 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

Severe symptoms. You have constant symptoms with severe sleep impairment that require multiple medications to manage.

What the VA looks for

Constant symptoms documented
Severe sleep impairment on sleep study
Multiple medications required with incomplete relief
Significant daytime impairment affecting work and daily life
Physician statement on severity despite treatment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a sleep study to document how RLS affects your sleep quality — the severity of sleep disruption drives the rating.
⚠Not connecting RLS to service-connected conditions like peripheral neuropathy, diabetes, or iron deficiency as a secondary condition.
⚠Not documenting medication use and whether symptoms are controlled — the rating depends on severity despite treatment.
⚠Underreporting daytime consequences of poor sleep: fatigue, poor concentration, mood changes.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions (Not Including Diabetic Sensory-Motor Peripheral Neuropathy)

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Restless Legs Syndrome or rated under the same body system.

Insomnia Disorder

DC 9499·Mental Disorders·Possible secondary

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

DC 9434·Mental Disorders·Possible secondary

Peripheral Neuropathy — Lower Extremities

DC 8520·Neurological·Possible secondary

Migraine Headaches

DC 8100·Neurological

Radiculopathy — Sciatic Nerve

DC 8520·Neurological

Peripheral Neuropathy — Upper Extremities

DC 8515·Neurological

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

DC 8045·Neurological

Epilepsy — Grand Mal (Generalized Convulsive)

DC 8910·Neurological

Condition Rating Guides

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