38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.104
Ventricular Arrhythmias
dc-7011-ventricular-arrhythmias
Cardiovascular
Diagnostic code
7011
Why your DC matters: DC 7011 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 7011 — Ventricular Arrhythmias — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.104 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 (7011) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “7011”. 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 7011 (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 7011 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 7011 covers sustained ventricular arrhythmias — V-tach, V-fib, and conditions warranting AICD (automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) implantation. Distinct from DC 7010 (supraventricular tachycardia, caps at 30%), DC 7011 has the full METs-based ladder up to 100% PLUS specific high-tier criteria for AICD implantation, recurrent CHF, and reduced ejection fraction. The single highest-value tactical play here is recognizing that AICD implantation typically anchors high-tier ratings — and the indication itself (life-threatening V-tach/V-fib) tells the rater that significant cardiac pathology exists even if METs are decent post-implantation. Pair with Agent Orange / Vietnam-era veterans whose ischemic heart disease (DC 7005) progressed to malignant arrhythmias.
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | Chronic congestive heart failure; OR workload of 3 METs or less results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope; OR left ventricular dysfunction with EF < 30%. | CHF hospitalizations + echo EF < 30% + stress test ≤ 3 METs. AICD implantation often anchors this tier when accompanied by EF reduction. |
| 60% | More than one episode of acute congestive heart failure in the past year; OR workload of greater than 3 METs but not greater than 5 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope; OR left ventricular dysfunction with EF 30-50%. | Hospitalization records showing ≥ 2 CHF admissions in 12 months + EF 30-50% on echo + stress test in METs range. |
| 30% | Workload of greater than 5 METs but not greater than 7 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope; OR evidence of cardiac hypertrophy or dilation on EKG, echo, or X-ray. | Stress test in METs range OR echo showing LVH / cardiac dilation. |
| 10% | Workload of greater than 7 METs but not greater than 10 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope; OR continuous medication required. | Stress test in range OR continuous antiarrhythmic Rx (amiodarone, sotalol, flecainide, etc.). |
| 0% | Asymptomatic with normal cardiac workup. | No active arrhythmias, normal echo, normal stress test. |
What Qualifies Under DC 7011?
Sustained ventricular arrhythmias (V-tach, V-fib)
Sustained ventricular tachycardia (lasting ≥ 30 seconds or requiring intervention) or ventricular fibrillation. Distinct from supraventricular arrhythmias (DC 7010) and benign PVCs.
AICD implantation conditions
AICDs are implanted for secondary prevention (after sustained V-tach/V-fib episode) or primary prevention (EF < 35% in CAD, certain genetic conditions). Implant itself is high-grade evidence.
METs-based + EF-based ladder
Tier ladder up to 100% based on workload METs, ejection fraction, and CHF episodes. Disjunctive — any one path qualifies for the tier.
Distinguished from DC 7010 (SVT)
DC 7010 = supraventricular tachycardia (atrial fib/flutter, SVT), caps at 30%. DC 7011 = ventricular arrhythmias, full ladder to 100%. Diagnosis matters.
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.
“EF < 30% on echo OR ≤ 3 METs on stress test OR chronic CHF”
Triple-disjunctive 100% gate — ANY ONE element triggers 100%. EF is the most objective; echo report alone supports this if EF < 30%.
“More than one acute CHF episode in past year OR EF 30-50% OR > 3 to 5 METs symptomatic”
Disjunctive ladder — count CHF hospitalizations carefully, pull echo for EF, check stress test METs. Any one path qualifies.
“Sustained ventricular arrhythmia (V-tach, V-fib) OR AICD implantation”
Anchors DC 7011 vs. DC 7010 (supraventricular, caps at 30%). AICD implantation is itself diagnostic-level evidence — implanted only for life-threatening V-tach/V-fib or significantly reduced EF.
“AICD implantation date + indication”
Per § 4.104 schedule notes, AICD implantation indications matter for rating analysis. Pull the operative report + cardiology indication note.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
Cardiology consult notes establishing sustained VT/VF diagnosis
CRITICALHolter monitor, telemetry strips, electrophysiology study (EPS), or AICD interrogation showing sustained ventricular arrhythmias.
Recent echocardiogram with EF measurement
CRITICALEF is the most objective high-tier driver. < 30% = 100%. 30-50% = 60%. Pull most recent echo.
Exercise stress test with METs assessment
CRITICALTreadmill stress test or pharmacologic (regadenoson, dobutamine). METs threshold drives tiers 10/30/60/100.
AICD implantation operative report
CRITICALIf AICD implanted, the operative report + indication note anchors high-tier rating. AICD = significant cardiac pathology.
Hospitalization records for CHF episodes
IMPORTANTCount discharge summaries with CHF diagnosis in past 12 months. > 1 = 60% path. Chronic CHF = 100%.
Medication list (antiarrhythmics + heart failure drugs)
IMPORTANTAmiodarone, sotalol, flecainide, beta-blockers, ACE/ARB, diuretics. Anchors 'continuous medication' for 10% minimum.
AICD interrogation reports
SUPPORTINGShock log + episode counts from device interrogation. Documents arrhythmia frequency.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring most recent echo with EF measurement
EF is the most objective high-tier driver. Pull within 6 months.
Bring AICD operative report + interrogation reports
AICD implantation tells the examiner significant cardiac pathology exists; interrogation logs document arrhythmia frequency.
Bring 12-month hospitalization log + medication list
CHF admissions count + continuous antiarrhythmic Rx anchor lower-tier elements.
Don't push through stress test
Stop when symptomatic (dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, syncope) — the METs at symptom onset is the rating METs. 'Pushing through' to a higher METs number erases tier value.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Filing under DC 7010 (supraventricular tachycardia) instead of DC 7011
DC 7010 caps at 30% — for SVT, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter. DC 7011 is for VENTRICULAR arrhythmias (V-tach, V-fib) with full METs ladder to 100%. Make sure the diagnosis is correctly coded.
Not pursuing the EF-based 100% path
EF < 30% on echo = automatic 100% under DC 7011. Don't accept 60% or lower if echo shows EF < 30%.
Missing AICD as high-tier evidence
AICD is implanted only for life-threatening V-tach/V-fib or significantly reduced EF. The implant itself is high-grade pathology evidence — anchor the rating discussion around the AICD indication.
Not stacking with underlying ischemic heart disease (DC 7005)
Most ventricular arrhythmias arise from underlying CAD. DC 7005 (CAD / ischemic heart disease) is the primary diagnosis; DC 7011 may rate separately or as the dominant code. Don't pyramid — confirm which gives the higher rating.
Tactical Plays
⚡ Pursue EF-based 100% path
DC 7011 100% gate is disjunctive: chronic CHF OR ≤ 3 METs OR EF < 30%. EF is the most objective — echo report alone documents it. Pull most recent echo. If EF < 30%, file for 100% with the echo as primary evidence. Don't accept lower tiers if echo supports 100%.
⚡ AICD implantation = automatic significant cardiac pathology
AICDs are implanted only for life-threatening V-tach/V-fib or significantly reduced EF (typically < 35% for primary prevention). The implant itself documents significant pathology. Pull the operative report and cardiology indication note — they anchor the high-tier rating discussion even if current METs are decent post-implant.
⚡ Don't pyramid — pick the higher: DC 7005 (CAD) vs. DC 7011 (V-arrhythmia)
Most V-tach arises from underlying ischemic heart disease. DC 7005 (CAD) and DC 7011 (V-arrhythmia) often overlap. Calculate both ratings; rate under the higher one. If CAD is AO presumptive and at 60%, but V-arrhythmia with EF < 30% is 100%, file under 7011 as dominant.
⚡ AO Vietnam-era pathway: 7005 → 7011 → AICD
Vietnam-era veterans with Agent Orange presumptive CAD frequently progress to ventricular arrhythmias and AICD. The pathway is direct: SC CAD → ischemic cardiomyopathy → reduced EF → V-tach → AICD. Each progression supports increased ratings.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Ischemic heart disease / CAD (causal — often Agent Orange)
STRONGDC 7005
Most ventricular arrhythmias arise from underlying ischemia. AO presumptive for Vietnam-era. Direct pathway: SC CAD → reduced EF → V-tach → AICD.
Hypertensive heart disease
STRONGDC 7007
Long-standing HTN causes LVH → predisposition to ventricular arrhythmias. Bidirectional secondary.
Congestive heart failure (consequence)
STRONGDC 7007
Reduced EF from V-tach / cardiomyopathy causes CHF. Rates within DC 7011 schedule directly or as separately listed CHF DC.
Depression secondary to AICD shocks / cardiac disease
MODERATEDC 9434
AICD-shock anxiety and chronic cardiac disease have well-documented depression comorbidity.
Hypertension (cause AND consequence)
MODERATEDC 7101
HTN both causes and is exacerbated by cardiac disease. Rates separately.
Diabetic cardiomyopathy (if SC diabetes)
MODERATEDiabetes drives CAD and direct diabetic cardiomyopathy → arrhythmias. Secondary pathway from SC diabetes (DC 7913).
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-L (statutorily housebound))
100% DC 7011 + additional independent disabilities combining to 60%+ (HTN, diabetes, depression). Reduced EF + multiple secondaries often anchor SMC L analysis.
SMC-L (statutorily housebound) monthly add-on
+$4,805.45
Added on top of your schedular rating.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
10% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$180.42
TOTAL
$180.42/mo
Continuous antiarrhythmic Rx OR > 7-10 METs symptomatic.
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
> 5-7 METs symptomatic OR cardiac hypertrophy/dilation.
60% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$1,435.02
TOTAL
$1,435.02/mo
> 1 CHF episode/yr OR > 3-5 METs symptomatic OR EF 30-50%.
100% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$3,938.58
TOTAL
$3,938.58/mo
Chronic CHF OR ≤ 3 METs OR EF < 30%.
100% DC 7011 + 60% DC 7101 HTN + 40% DC 7913 diabetes → SMC L
Base rating
$4,805.45
TOTAL
$4,805.45/mo
AICD-implanted IHD veteran with cardiac + metabolic stacking → SMC L predicate.
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 Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia?
V-tach lasting ≥ 30 seconds or requiring intervention (medication, cardioversion, AICD shock) to terminate. Distinguishes from non-sustained V-tach (< 30 sec, self-resolving) which may be benign. Sustained V-tach is life-threatening and warrants DC 7011 evaluation.
⚡What is an AICD?
Automatic Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator. Implanted device that monitors heart rhythm and delivers shock if life-threatening V-tach or V-fib is detected. Implanted for secondary prevention (post-sustained V-tach event) or primary prevention (EF < 35% in CAD). The implant itself documents significant cardiac pathology.
📊What's the EF-Based 100% Path?
Left ventricular ejection fraction < 30% on echo = automatic 100% under DC 7011 schedule. EF is the most objective high-tier driver. Single most-missed path — many veterans rated 60% on METs criteria when echo shows EF < 30%.
📋AICD Shock vs. Episode?
AICD interrogation reports show both 'episodes' (detected V-tach/V-fib events) and 'shocks' (actual defibrillation delivered). Each event is documented evidence of arrhythmia recurrence. Pull interrogation reports periodically.
How to File Your Claim
Pull cardiology records confirming sustained V-tach / V-fib diagnosis
Holter, telemetry, EPS, AICD interrogation. Anchors DC 7011 vs. DC 7010.
Pull recent echo with EF measurement
Most objective high-tier driver. < 30% = 100%.
Pull stress test METs assessment + AICD operative report
METs and AICD indication anchor tier discussion.
File 21-526EZ specifying 'sustained ventricular arrhythmias (DC 7011)' or 'AICD implantation conditions'
If secondary to SC IHD (DC 7005), specify the underlying condition.
Audit underlying IHD (DC 7005) + secondary depression / mental health
Don't pyramid; pick higher between DC 7005 and DC 7011. Mental health rates separately.
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
EF-based 100% path often missed
Echo EF < 30% = automatic 100% under DC 7011. Single most-missed high-tier path. Pull recent echo.
AICD implantation = significant cardiac pathology
AICDs are implanted only for life-threatening V-tach/V-fib or EF < 35%. The implant itself anchors high-tier discussion.
Don't pyramid — pick higher between DC 7005 (CAD) and DC 7011
CAD and V-arrhythmia overlap. Calculate both; rate under the higher. AO Vietnam-era veterans often have IHD → V-arrhythmia progression.
SMC L analysis at 100% schedular
100% + 60% additional independent disabilities = SMC L. Cardiac + metabolic + mental health stacking commonly reaches it.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between DC 7010 and DC 7011?
DC 7010 = supraventricular tachycardia (atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, SVT) — caps at 30%. DC 7011 = sustained ventricular arrhythmias (V-tach, V-fib) + AICD implantation conditions — full METs/EF ladder to 100%. Diagnosis matters; make sure your records and claim use the correct DC.
Does AICD implantation guarantee 100%?
Not automatically by the implant alone, but AICD implantation typically anchors high-tier rating because the indications (sustained V-tach/V-fib or EF < 35%) themselves document significant pathology. Pair with echo EF < 30% = automatic 100%. Pair with chronic CHF = automatic 100%.
Can I claim ventricular arrhythmia as a secondary to Agent Orange CAD?
Yes — Agent Orange presumptive CAD (DC 7005) frequently progresses to ischemic cardiomyopathy → ventricular arrhythmias → AICD. The pathway is direct. Often the higher tier is DC 7011 (with full ladder to 100%) rather than DC 7005 (capped at 100% but typically rated lower in early stages).
How do I count CHF hospitalizations?
Pull all discharge summaries in the past 12 months with primary or secondary diagnosis of acute decompensated heart failure (CHF, pulmonary edema, ADHF). > 1 episode = 60% path. Chronic CHF (ongoing symptoms not requiring hospitalization but persistent) = 100% path.
What if my EF is 35%?
EF 35% falls in the 30-50% range (60% tier per DC 7011). Below 30% triggers 100%. Note: 30-35% is a common AICD indication for primary prevention in CAD patients. Pair EF data with CHF history and METs to determine highest applicable tier.
Official Regulatory Source
Sustained ventricular arrhythmias rate under 38 CFR § 4.104, DC 7011 — METs + EF + CHF episode ladder.
38 CFR § 4.104 — Cardiovascular System (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 7011. Compare DC 7010 (supraventricular, 30% cap) for diagnosis distinction. Cross-reference DC 7005 (CAD) for underlying ischemic substrate.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 7011, 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 7011 • 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.