Diagnostic Code 9326 · 38 CFR §4.130
DC 9326 covers major or mild neurocognitive disorder caused by a medical condition other than traumatic brain injury, HIV/infections, vascular disease, or Alzheimer disease (which each have their own DCs). Examples include neurocognitive decline from Parkinson disease, Huntington disease, prion disease, toxic substance exposure, metabolic conditions, or multiple sclerosis. For veterans, toxic exposures during service — burn pits, Agent Orange, industrial solvents, depleted uranium — are among the most common service-connected causes. The VA rates this condition under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders at 38 CFR 4.130.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | A diagnosis exists but cognitive symptoms do not impair occupational or social functioning. |
| 10% | Mild cognitive decline that decreases work efficiency only during periods of significant stress, or symptoms managed by compensatory strategies. |
| 30% | Occasional decrease in work efficiency due to mild memory loss, difficulty concentrating, depressed mood about cognitive decline, or sleep problems. |
| 50% | Reduced reliability and productivity due to moderate cognitive decline affecting complex task completion, judgment, and ability to maintain effective relationships. |
| 70% | Deficiencies in most areas due to significant cognitive decline. May include disorientation, inability to manage finances or medications independently, near-continuous anxiety or depression, and neglect of self-care. |
| 100% | Total occupational and social impairment with severe cognitive decline, disorientation to time or place, inability to perform daily activities, memory loss for personal information, and need for constant supervision. |
A neuropsychological evaluation documenting cognitive decline compared to prior functioning is the strongest evidence. A diagnosis identifying the underlying medical cause is important — for example, toxic exposure records paired with neurological findings. Medical records linking the physiological cause to military service establish nexus. Brain imaging showing relevant changes can support the claim. Buddy statements from family describing cognitive decline in daily functioning are valuable. Employment records showing declining work performance add corroboration.
DC 9304 is specifically for neurocognitive disorder due to TBI. DC 9301 covers neurocognitive disorder from HIV or other infections. DC 9326 covers all other medical causes — toxic exposures, Parkinson disease, metabolic conditions, and similar. The rating criteria are the same for all.
Yes. If toxic exposure during service caused or contributed to neurocognitive decline, DC 9326 applies. You need medical evidence linking the cognitive impairment to the specific exposure and documentation of the exposure itself.