How the VA Rates Psoriasis
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7816 criteria a VA rater evaluates Psoriasis against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic codes 7816, 7808
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7816 for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.
10%
$180.42/month
Affects at least 5 percent but less than 20 percent of the entire body, or at least 5 percent but less than 20 percent of exposed areas; OR intermittent systemic therapy (including biologics, corticosteroids, phototherapy, retinoids, methotrexate, or other immunosuppressives) for a total duration of less than 6 weeks over the past 12 months.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- 5–20% of body or exposed areas with plaques, or
- Systemic therapy <6 weeks over the past year
- Scaly, raised plaques on skin
30%
$552.47/month
Affects 20 to 40 percent of the entire body, or 20 to 40 percent of exposed areas; OR systemic therapy for a total duration of 6 weeks or more, but not constantly, over the past 12 months.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- 20–40% of body or exposed areas affected, or
- Systemic therapy ≥6 weeks/year (not constant)
- Widespread plaques requiring ongoing treatment
60%
$1,435.02/month
Affects more than 40 percent of the entire body, or more than 40 percent of exposed areas; OR constant or near-constant systemic therapy over the past 12 months.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- More than 40% of body or exposed areas affected, or
- Constant/near-constant systemic therapy (e.g., biologics)
- Severe, treatment-resistant psoriasis
The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.
The evidence that matters most
Documentation of body-surface-area affected during a flare and the type/duration of therapy — systemic (not just topical) treatment drives the higher levels
C&P exam tips for Psoriasis
- What wins this rating: documentation of percent body/exposed-area coverage AND the type and duration of systemic therapy — biologics and other systemic agents count toward the higher tiers.
- Get examined during an active flare; coverage is measured at the exam.
- Bring records of biologics, methotrexate, phototherapy, or oral agents and their durations.
- If you have joint symptoms, claim psoriatic arthritis separately.
Common mistakes on Psoriasis claims
- Being seen when skin is clear — note typical flare coverage and provide photos.
- Not documenting systemic/biologic therapy duration.
- Overlooking a separate psoriatic arthritis claim.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7816 — diagnostic codes 7816, 7808.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Psoriasis?
60% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Psoriasis. The criteria at that level describe: Affects more than 40 percent of the entire body, or more than 40 percent of exposed areas; OR constant or near-constant systemic therapy over the past 12 months.
How much does a 60% VA rating for Psoriasis pay in 2026?
$1,435.02 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.
Build your Psoriasis claim documentation
Your first claim builds free, on screen — a personal statement mapped to these criteria and a cited draft medical opinion. No card to sign up.
Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.