38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.79
Cataract
dc-6027-cataract
Eye
Diagnostic code
6027
Why your DC matters: DC 6027 is the exact code the VA uses to rate this condition. It determines which symptoms unlock which percentage, what evidence the rater looks for, and which secondaries are most likely to be approved.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 6027 — Cataract — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.79 in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Educational index row from the rating schedule naming convention; confirm exact diagnostic code, effective date, and criteria in the current eCFR Part 4.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (6027) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “6027”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 6027 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 6027 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 6027 doesn't have a face-value rating ladder — it directs evaluation under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye, which is keyed to visual acuity and visual field. Preoperative cataracts rate based on current visual impairment; postoperative cataracts with replacement lens (pseudophakia) rate the same way. Postoperative cataracts WITHOUT replacement lens (aphakia, rare today) rate under DC 6029. The most-missed cataract play is the post-surgical separate rating for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) or surgical complications, plus the secondary pathway from service-connected diabetes (DC 7913 — diabetic cataracts develop earlier and more aggressively).
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | Bilateral blindness — 5/200 or worse in both eyes; OR enucleation with prosthesis (rate under separate DC). | Snellen 5/200 or worse bilaterally; visual field severely constricted. |
| 60% | Visual acuity in better eye 20/200 + worse eye 5/200; or visual acuity in better eye 20/100 + worse eye 5/200; or unilateral blindness with severe loss in fellow eye. | Snellen testing supporting tier-specific combinations. |
| 40% | Visual acuity in better eye 20/70 + worse eye 5/200; or various combinations in the 20/70 - 20/200 range. | Snellen testing. |
| 30% | Visual acuity in better eye 20/50 + worse eye 5/200; or various intermediate combinations. | Snellen testing. |
| 20% | Visual acuity in better eye 20/40 + worse eye 5/200; or various lesser combinations. | Snellen testing. |
| 10% | Visual acuity in better eye 20/40 + worse eye 20/50 - 20/200; or visual field defect. | Snellen + Goldmann or Humphrey perimetry. |
| 0% | Visual acuity better than 20/40 in both eyes with no significant visual field defect. | Normal/near-normal vision. |
What Qualifies Under DC 6027?
Lens opacification reducing visual function
Cataract = clouding of the lens. Types: nuclear, cortical, posterior subcapsular. Cause: age-related (most common), diabetic, steroid-induced, traumatic, congenital.
Rated under General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye
Not a face-value ladder. Rating tier based on current best-corrected visual acuity (Snellen) and visual field. Pre-op and post-op pseudophakia both rate this way.
Postoperative without lens = DC 6029 (aphakia)
Rare today (modern cataract surgery routinely implants IOL). If aphakic, rates under DC 6029 instead of DC 6027.
Secondary pathways
Diabetic cataracts (secondary to SC diabetes DC 7913), steroid-induced (secondary to chronic steroid Rx for SC condition), traumatic (in-service injury) — all direct nexus pathways.
Language Your Rater Needs to See
These are the exact (or near-exact) regulatory phrases that unlock specific tiers. If your DBQ or C&P report doesn't use this vocabulary, the rater may default to a lower percentage even when symptoms qualify.
“Best-corrected visual acuity (Snellen)”
Cataract rating is keyed entirely to current visual acuity — not the presence of the cataract per se. Snellen with best correction (glasses, contacts, IOL) is the operative measurement. Pre-surgical and post-surgical both rate the same way under DC 6027.
“Pseudophakia (intraocular lens implant)”
Post-cataract surgery with IOL = pseudophakia. Rates under DC 6027 based on post-op visual acuity. If acuity is restored to 20/40 or better with the IOL, rating may be 0%.
“Posterior capsule opacification with reduced visual acuity”
Post-surgical PCO is a common complication that reduces post-op acuity. Treatable with YAG capsulotomy. While untreated, rates based on current acuity — can support 10-30% even post-IOL.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
Ophthalmology exam with Snellen best-corrected visual acuity
CRITICALBoth eyes, best correction. Anchors every tier.
Slit-lamp documentation of cataract type/stage
CRITICALNuclear, cortical, posterior subcapsular. Anchors the diagnosis.
Operative report (if post-surgical)
CRITICALDate, IOL type/power, intraoperative complications. Establishes pseudophakia and any complications.
Visual field testing (Goldmann or Humphrey)
IMPORTANTIf visual field defect present, separate rating element for the General Rating Formula.
Service-connection nexus to underlying SC condition
IMPORTANTDiabetes (DC 7913) — diabetic cataracts develop earlier. Steroid use for SC condition — steroid-induced cataracts. Eye trauma in service.
Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) documentation
SUPPORTINGCommon post-surgical complication; rates under DC 6027 based on current acuity until YAG capsulotomy.
C&P Exam Tips
Demand best-corrected Snellen, not uncorrected
Rating uses best correction. Make sure your current glasses / contacts / IOL is in place at the exam.
Bring operative report if post-surgical
IOL type, intraoperative complications, post-op refractive outcome. Anchors pseudophakia status.
Ask about visual field testing
If perimetry hasn't been performed, the visual field element is missing — request Goldmann or Humphrey.
Don't accept 0% just because IOL is in place
If post-op acuity is reduced (PCO, IOL dislocation, refractive complication), the General Rating Formula still applies based on current acuity.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Filing only under DC 6027 without pursuing visual acuity DC separately
DC 6027 references the General Rating Formula based on acuity. Make sure Snellen testing is current and tier is calculated correctly.
Accepting 0% post-IOL without checking for PCO or complications
Post-surgical PCO, IOL dislocation, or refractive complications can reduce post-op acuity below 20/40. Re-evaluate periodically — PCO develops 1-5 years after cataract surgery.
Missing diabetic / steroid cataract secondary pathway
Diabetic cataracts develop years earlier than age-related. Steroid-induced cataracts from chronic steroid Rx for SC conditions (asthma, IBD, autoimmune) also qualify as secondary. Direct nexus pathway.
Not pursuing aphakia rating (DC 6029) if no IOL
Rare today, but if cataract was removed without IOL implantation, the aphakia DC 6029 may yield a different rating structure.
Tactical Plays
⚡ Always pull current best-corrected Snellen
Cataract rating is keyed entirely to visual acuity, not the presence of the cataract. Best-corrected Snellen (with glasses, contacts, or IOL) drives every tier. If your Snellen is > 1 year old, get a current measurement before filing. Pre-op cataracts and post-op pseudophakia both rate the same way.
⚡ If diabetic, file as secondary to SC diabetes
Diabetic cataracts develop years earlier than age-related and progress faster. If diabetes (DC 7913) is SC, file the cataract claim as secondary — direct nexus pathway, no separate medical opinion needed if ophthalmology chart notes 'diabetic cataract' or equivalent.
⚡ Don't accept 0% post-IOL — check for PCO + complications
Posterior capsule opacification develops 1-5 years post-cataract surgery in ~30% of patients. It reduces best-corrected acuity until YAG capsulotomy is performed. If post-op acuity has declined, re-file based on current Snellen — 10-30% may be available.
⚡ Steroid-induced cataracts have a secondary pathway too
Chronic systemic corticosteroid Rx for SC conditions (asthma, IBD, autoimmune) causes posterior subcapsular cataracts. If you've been on chronic steroid for an SC condition, the cataract is a recognized secondary. Pharmacy printout + ophthalmology chart note documents the pathway.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Diabetes mellitus (causal)
STRONGDC 7913
Diabetic cataracts develop earlier and more aggressively. Direct secondary pathway if diabetes is SC.
Steroid-induced cataract (secondary to chronic steroid Rx)
MODERATEChronic systemic steroid Rx for SC conditions (asthma DC 6602, IBD DC 7323/7326, autoimmune conditions) causes posterior subcapsular cataracts. Direct nexus.
Eye trauma in service
MODERATEIn-service eye injury can cause traumatic cataracts — sometimes years later. STR documentation of trauma + later cataract supports SC.
Posterior capsule opacification (PCO)
SITUATIONALPost-surgical complication that reduces acuity. Rates under DC 6027 based on current acuity until YAG capsulotomy.
Glaucoma (concurrent or secondary)
SITUATIONALDC 6013
Cataract surgery can affect intraocular pressure. Glaucoma rates separately under DC 6013.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
0% — single, no dependents
TOTAL
$0.00/mo
Bilateral vision 20/40 or better post-IOL.
10% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$180.42
TOTAL
$180.42/mo
Vision in better eye 20/40 + worse eye 20/50-20/200.
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
Visual acuity combinations supporting 30% tier.
60% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$1,435.02
TOTAL
$1,435.02/mo
Severe bilateral visual impairment.
100% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$3,938.58
TOTAL
$3,938.58/mo
Bilateral blindness 5/200 or worse.
30% DC 6027 cataract + 20% DC 7913 diabetes
Base rating
$1,132.90
TOTAL
$1,132.90/mo
Diabetic cataract secondary stacks with underlying diabetes — combined ~44% rounds to 40%; with bilateral factor may reach 50%.
Note: Amounts are approximations rounded to nearest dollar. Actual comp varies with effective date, dependents (spouse, children, parents — each adds), Aid & Attendance, and additional disabilities. Combined ratings use VA Math (§ 4.25), not simple addition.
Key Definitions
👁️What is Pseudophakia?
Pseudophakia = post-cataract surgery state with intraocular lens (IOL) implant. Modern cataract surgery routinely creates pseudophakia. Rates under DC 6027 based on post-op visual acuity — not under DC 6029 (aphakia).
🌫️What is Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO)?
PCO = clouding of the posterior lens capsule that develops 1-5 years after cataract surgery in ~30% of patients. Reduces best-corrected visual acuity. Treated with YAG laser capsulotomy. While untreated, rates under DC 6027 based on current acuity.
🩸What's a Diabetic Cataract?
Cataracts that develop earlier and progress faster in diabetics due to glycation of lens proteins. Posterior subcapsular morphology common. Direct secondary pathway from SC diabetes (DC 7913).
📐What is the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye?
The umbrella formula in § 4.79 that rates most eye diseases based on best-corrected visual acuity (Snellen) and visual field testing. Tiers ladder from 0% (normal vision) to 100% (bilateral blindness). DC 6027 (cataract), DC 6026 (open-angle glaucoma), and many others reference this formula.
How to File Your Claim
Pull current ophthalmology exam with best-corrected Snellen
Both eyes, with current correction (glasses, contacts, IOL). Anchors every tier.
Establish service connection — direct, secondary, or traumatic
Direct (in-service diagnosis), secondary (diabetes, steroid Rx), or traumatic (in-service eye injury). Document the pathway.
Pull operative report if post-surgical
IOL type, intraoperative complications, post-op refractive outcome.
File 21-526EZ specifying 'cataract (DC 6027)' with current Snellen tier
If secondary, specify the underlying SC condition (e.g., 'secondary to SC diabetes mellitus, DC 7913').
Re-file if PCO develops post-surgical
PCO 1-5 years post-cataract surgery reduces acuity — re-file based on current Snellen if it has declined.
Typical Claim Timeline
File initial claim
Day 0–7: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all medical evidence on file
VA acknowledges claim
Week 1–2: Receive confirmation letter and claim tracking number
C&P examination scheduled
Month 1–3: VA contracts an exam vendor and sends you appointment notice
Attend C&P exam
Bring your full evidence package; describe symptoms on your worst days, not your best
Decision & rating notice
Month 3–6: Decision letter with rating percentage and effective date
First payment & retro back pay
Within 15 days of decision; retroactive to claim date (or effective date if earlier)
Timeline varies by case complexity and VA regional office workload. Some claims resolve faster; others take longer.
Important Considerations
Rating is keyed to current visual acuity, not cataract presence
DC 6027 references the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye — entirely based on best-corrected Snellen + visual field. Pre-op and post-IOL both rate the same way.
Diabetic cataract = secondary pathway
If diabetes (DC 7913) is SC, cataracts are a recognized secondary. Direct nexus — ophthalmology chart notation of 'diabetic cataract' is sufficient.
Don't accept 0% post-IOL — re-check for PCO
Posterior capsule opacification develops in ~30% of patients 1-5 years post-cataract surgery. Reduces acuity until YAG capsulotomy. Re-file based on current Snellen.
Steroid-induced cataracts are recognized secondaries
Chronic systemic steroid Rx for SC conditions (asthma, IBD, autoimmune) causes posterior subcapsular cataracts. Pharmacy printout + ophthalmology chart anchors the pathway.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a cataract rated if I've had surgery and an IOL?
Post-IOL (pseudophakia) rates under DC 6027 based on post-op best-corrected visual acuity. If acuity is restored to 20/40 or better, rating may be 0%. If post-op complications (PCO, IOL dislocation) reduce acuity, the General Rating Formula tier is calculated on current Snellen.
Can I claim diabetic cataracts as secondary to my diabetes?
Yes — diabetic cataracts develop years earlier than age-related and progress faster. If diabetes (DC 7913) is service-connected, the cataract rates as a secondary. Direct nexus pathway; ophthalmology chart notation of 'diabetic cataract' or equivalent is sufficient.
What's the difference between DC 6027 and DC 6029?
DC 6027 = cataract (with or without IOL). DC 6029 = aphakia (post-surgical state without IOL implant). Modern cataract surgery routinely implants IOL, so aphakia is rare today. Pre-op cataracts and post-op pseudophakia both rate under DC 6027.
Can steroid use for my asthma cause cataracts?
Yes — chronic systemic corticosteroid therapy (oral prednisone, IV solumedrol) causes posterior subcapsular cataracts. If you've been on chronic steroid for an SC condition (asthma DC 6602, IBD DC 7323/7326, autoimmune), the cataract is a recognized secondary.
Does posterior capsule opacification rate separately?
PCO rates under DC 6027 based on the current best-corrected visual acuity it causes — not as a separate DC. If post-op acuity has declined from PCO, re-file based on current Snellen. YAG capsulotomy restores acuity and re-zeroes the tier.
Official Regulatory Source
Cataract is rated under 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6027 — referencing the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye (based on visual acuity + visual field).
38 CFR § 4.79 — Eye (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 6027. The General Rating Formula tier table is at § 4.79 with the visual acuity matrix (DC 6065-6066). DC 6029 covers aphakia (no IOL).
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 6027, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Obtaining a nexus letter if needed to establish or strengthen service connection
- Filing for secondary conditions that may be related to this primary condition
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 6027 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.