This guide covers how the VA actually rates diabetes type 2 under diagnostic code 7913 — the criteria the rater applies, the evidence that carries weight, and the related conditions veterans most often leave unclaimed. It's the same playbook our own case managers work from.
How the VA rates it
10% = manageable by restricted diet only · 20% = oral hypoglycemic OR insulin · 40% = insulin + restricted diet + REGULATION OF ACTIVITIES (medically required avoidance of strenuous activity) — the regulation requirement is what stops most 40s.
Honest ceiling: 40% with insulin, restricted diet, and regulation of activities.
The evidence that wins
Service connection: Agent Orange era = PRESUMPTIVE (Vietnam, Thailand, C-123). Otherwise onset near service or secondary theories.
Medical opinion (nexus): Not needed if presumptive — check DEPLOYMENTS first.
Secondary conditions veterans miss
Conditions that commonly develop because of this one can be service-connected on top of it:
- Peripheral neuropathy secondary to diabetes — PER EXTREMITY — four separate ratings on a bad case
- ED secondary to diabetes — 0% + SMC-K (~$136/mo) — pure missed money
- Kidney disease secondary to diabetes
- Diabetic retinopathy / eye involvement
Filing it right the first time
Most denials on diabetes type 2 claims trace to the same failures: the evidence never addressed the actual rating criteria, the connection to service was asserted instead of supported, or the C&P exam went sideways because nobody prepared for it. A complete file — records, statements written to the criteria above, and honest exam preparation — is the difference.
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