Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis DC 8017
VA rates it under diagnostic code 8017 in 38 CFR 4.124a. Body system: Head & nerves.
Also searched as: ALS, Lou Gehrig's disease.
How VA rates it
The schedule has one rating level for this code: 100%.
Source: 38 CFR 4.124a on eCFR. Read the full criteria there before you file.
Rating levels and criteria
| Rating | What the schedule says |
|---|---|
| 100% | Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis |
Criteria text from 38 CFR 4.124a, eCFR as of November 10, 2026. The eCFR is the official source if anything here differs.
Notes in the schedule (1)
Note: Consider the need for special monthly compensation.
Presumptive rules that include it
If your service matches one of these, VA presumes the link to service and you do not need a medical opinion connecting it.
Chronic diseases that show up within a year of discharge
Covered: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS also has its own rule with no time limit).
Who qualifies: 90 days or more of continuous active service during a war period or after December 31, 1946, and the disease reached at least 10% disabling within 1 year of leaving service (3 years for tuberculosis and Hansen's disease, 7 years for multiple sclerosis).
38 CFR 3.307(a)(3) and 3.309(a). Sources: 38 CFR 3.307; 38 CFR 3.309; VA M21-1, Part V, Subpart iii, Chapter 2, Section B: Conditions of the auditory system
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Covered: ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). VA rates ALS at 100%.
Who qualifies: ALS that develops at any time after service, if you had 90 days or more of continuous active service.
38 CFR 3.318. Sources: 38 CFR 3.318; 38 CFR 4.124a
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Rating schedule data as of November 10, 2026. Secondary and presumptive links checked November 13, 2026.
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