Eczema VA Disability Rating: Criteria, Evidence & Pay

What is eczema and how does it affect veterans?

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis or simply dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes patches of skin to become red, inflamed, itchy, cracked, and rough. In severe cases, the skin may blister and weep fluid. Eczema is not contagious, but it can be persistent, uncomfortable, and significantly impact quality of life.

Veterans develop eczema at notable rates, often related to environmental exposures during service. Contact with chemicals, solvents, fuels, and cleaning agents used in military settings can trigger or worsen dermatitis. Deployment to hot, humid, or arid climates creates skin stress. Wearing heavy gear and uniforms for extended periods traps moisture and irritants against the skin. The chronic stress of military service also plays a role — stress is a well-known trigger for eczema flare-ups.

The impact of eczema extends beyond the physical. Severe or visible eczema causes embarrassment and social withdrawal, disrupts sleep due to intense itching, and can lead to secondary infections when the skin barrier is compromised. Veterans with eczema on their hands may find it difficult to perform manual tasks, and those with facial eczema often struggle with self-image and social interactions.

VA diagnostic code for eczema

Eczema is rated under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7806 per 38 CFR § 4.118, Schedule of Ratings — Skin.

DC 7806 covers dermatitis or eczema and rates the condition based on two primary factors: the percentage of body surface area affected and the type of treatment required. The VA evaluates both the total body area and exposed areas (head, face, neck, and hands) when determining the rating.

Rating criteria for eczema

The VA assigns eczema ratings at four possible levels:

0% rating

Criteria: Less than 5% of the entire body or exposed areas affected, and no more than topical therapy required during the past 12-month period.

Monthly payment: $0 (but establishes service connection for future increases and secondary claims)

What this looks like: You have a confirmed eczema diagnosis, but the affected area is small and you manage it with topical creams or ointments only. Your eczema may be limited to a small patch on your arm, leg, or torso that responds to over-the-counter or prescription topical treatment.

10% rating — $180.42/month

Criteria: At least 5% but less than 20% of the entire body, or at least 5% but less than 20% of exposed areas affected; or intermittent systemic therapy such as corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs required for a total duration of less than six weeks during the past 12-month period.

What this looks like: Your eczema covers a moderate area of your body — perhaps your forearms and portions of your legs, or several patches across your torso. Alternatively, you have needed systemic medication (oral steroids, immunosuppressive drugs) for brief periods to control flare-ups, even if the affected area is smaller.

30% rating — $552.47/month

Criteria: 20% to 40% of the entire body or 20% to 40% of exposed areas affected; or systemic therapy such as corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs required for a total duration of six weeks or more, but not constantly, during the past 12-month period.

What this looks like: Your eczema is widespread, covering significant portions of your body such as large areas of your arms, legs, and torso. Or your condition requires systemic medication for six or more weeks per year — for example, multiple courses of oral prednisone or periods on immunosuppressive drugs. You likely deal with frequent flare-ups that significantly disrupt your daily routine.

60% rating — $1,435.02/month

Criteria: More than 40% of the entire body or more than 40% of exposed areas affected; or constant or near-constant systemic therapy such as corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs required during the past 12-month period.

What this looks like: Your eczema is severe and covers large portions of your body, or you require constant or near-constant systemic treatment to manage it. You may be on continuous immunosuppressive therapy, biologic medications, or frequent rounds of systemic steroids. Your eczema dominates your daily life and significantly impairs your functioning.

What evidence do you need?

Service records

• Service treatment records showing skin complaints, dermatology visits, or prescribed skin medications
• Records of exposure to chemicals, solvents, fuels, or environmental irritants during service
• Deployment records documenting service in climates that aggravate skin conditions
• Documentation of skin issues related to wearing military gear or uniforms

Medical evidence

• Dermatologist diagnosis confirming eczema or atopic dermatitis
• Treatment records documenting all medications prescribed — both topical and systemic
• Photographs of flare-ups showing the extent and severity of the condition at its worst
• Records documenting the percentage of body surface area affected during flares
• Prescription history showing the type, duration, and frequency of systemic therapy
• Records of any secondary infections or complications from eczema

Nexus letter

A medical opinion connecting your eczema to military service. The nexus letter should explain the likely cause — chemical exposure, environmental conditions during deployment, aggravation of a pre-existing tendency, or development during service.

Buddy statements

Statements from family members, friends, or coworkers who can describe your visible skin condition, the impact of itching and discomfort on your daily life, sleep disruption from eczema, and social or occupational limitations caused by the condition.

C&P exam tips for eczema

What the examiner evaluates

• Confirmation of eczema diagnosis
• Percentage of total body surface area affected
• Percentage of exposed areas affected
• Treatment history — specifically topical versus systemic therapy
• Duration and frequency of systemic therapy in the past 12 months
• Impact on daily functioning and employment

How to prepare

1. Schedule during a flare if possible. If your eczema waxes and wanes, try to schedule the C&P exam during an active flare period. The examiner assesses what they see on the day of the exam.
2. Bring photographs. If you cannot schedule during a flare, bring dated photographs showing your eczema at its worst. Take photos showing the full extent of affected areas.
3. Know your treatment history. Be able to clearly explain what medications you use, how often, and for how long. Distinguish between topical treatments and systemic treatments.
4. Document systemic therapy duration. If you have used oral steroids or immunosuppressive drugs, calculate the total weeks of use in the past 12 months. This directly determines your rating level.
5. Wear clothing that allows examination. The examiner needs to see all affected areas. Wear loose, easily removable clothing.
6. Do not apply medication before the exam. Let the examiner see your skin in its typical untreated state if possible.

Common secondary conditions linked to eczema

Eczema can lead to or aggravate other conditions that increase your overall combined rating:

• Depression — Chronic skin conditions are strongly associated with depression. The persistent itching, visible skin changes, and social embarrassment of eczema take a significant psychological toll.
• Anxiety — The unpredictability of eczema flare-ups and concern about visible skin in social and professional settings can cause or worsen anxiety disorders.
• Sleep apnea — Chronic sleep disruption from eczema itching can compound into broader sleep disorders. The medications used to treat eczema can also contribute to weight gain and sleep issues.
• Secondary skin infections — Broken skin from scratching creates entry points for bacterial and fungal infections that may require additional treatment.

How to calculate your monthly payment

Your total VA disability payment depends on your combined rating across all service-connected conditions. If eczema is combined with other ratings, your overall compensation reflects the combined effect of all conditions.

Use our VA disability calculator to:

• Calculate your combined rating with multiple conditions
• Understand how VA math combines ratings (10% + 10% does not equal 20%)
• Estimate your monthly payment including dependents

For the full breakdown of payment amounts at every rating level, see our 2026 VA disability pay rates page.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. For personalized guidance on your VA disability claim, consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or claims agent. You can find accredited representatives at VA.gov.