38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.117
Iron Deficiency Anemia
dc-7720-iron-deficiency-anemia
Hematologic / lymphatic
Diagnostic code
7720
Why your DC matters: DC 7720 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 7720 — Iron Deficiency Anemia — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.117 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 (7720) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “7720”. 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 7720 (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 7720 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 7720 (iron deficiency anemia) replaced the old DC 7700 'anemia, hypochromic-microcytic' code in the 2018 § 4.117 restructure. The current schedule is tied entirely to treatment requirements — specifically intravenous iron infusion frequency. Veterans with chronic blood loss from GI conditions (Crohn's, UC, hemorrhoids, chronic NSAID gastritis) often have iron deficiency anemia ratable as a secondary that gets missed because the underlying GI condition rating absorbs attention. DC 7720 caps at 30%, but it stacks cleanly with the underlying GI rating and doesn't pyramid.
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 30% | Requiring intravenous iron infusions 4 or more times per 12-month period. | Pharmacy or infusion-center records documenting ≥ 4 IV iron infusions per year + persistent iron deficiency on labs. |
| 10% | Requiring intravenous iron infusions at least 1 time but less than 4 times per 12-month period, OR requiring continuous treatment with oral supplementation. | Documented IV iron infusions 1-3 per year, OR continuous oral iron Rx (e.g., ferrous sulfate). |
| 0% | Asymptomatic or requiring treatment only by dietary modification. | Lab-confirmed iron deficiency anemia diagnosis without active treatment requirement. |
What Qualifies Under DC 7720?
Confirmed iron deficiency anemia
Low hemoglobin + low MCV + low ferritin (< 30 ng/mL) or low transferrin saturation (< 20%). Distinguishes IDA from other anemias.
Treatment-driven tiers
DC 7720 schedule:
- • 0% — Asymptomatic or dietary modification only
- • 10% — Continuous oral iron OR 1-3 IV iron infusions/year
- • 30% — 4+ IV iron infusions per 12-month period
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.
“Requiring intravenous iron infusions 4 or more times per 12-month period”
30% gate. Frequency-driven — pull infusion records (Venofer, Injectafer, Feraheme administration logs). Each infusion in the 12-month window counts.
“Continuous treatment with oral supplementation”
10% alternate path — even without IV iron, daily oral iron Rx (ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate) qualifies at 10%. Many veterans miss this minimum rating.
“Iron deficiency anemia on labs (low ferritin + low MCV + low Hgb)”
Confirms the diagnosis specifically as IRON deficiency, not other anemia. Ferritin < 30 ng/mL or transferrin saturation < 20% is the diagnostic gold standard.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
Lab confirmation of iron deficiency anemia
CRITICALCBC (low Hgb, low MCV) + iron studies (low ferritin, low transferrin saturation, high TIBC). Distinguishes IDA from other anemias.
Treatment regimen documentation
CRITICALOral iron Rx (10%) vs. IV iron infusion frequency (10% or 30%). Pharmacy fills + infusion center records.
Underlying cause workup
IMPORTANTGI evaluation (colonoscopy, EGD) to identify chronic bleeding source — Crohn's, UC, hemorrhoids, ulcers. Establishes the secondary pathway to the underlying SC condition.
Serial CBC trend (12+ months)
IMPORTANTDocuments chronicity of the anemia and response to treatment.
Symptom diary (fatigue, dyspnea on exertion, pallor)
SUPPORTINGFunctional impact supports the clinical narrative even though tiers are treatment-based.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring infusion center records
Date + medication + dose for each IV iron infusion. The 30% gate is specifically 4+ infusions in 12 months.
Bring iron studies labs
Ferritin, transferrin saturation, TIBC. Anchors the diagnosis as iron-deficiency specifically.
Document underlying GI bleeding source if applicable
Establishes the secondary pathway. Direct presumptive nexus if underlying condition is service-connected.
Don't accept 0% if you're on oral iron Rx
Continuous oral iron supplementation qualifies for 10% minimum. Don't let the rater settle for 'dietary modification only.'
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Filing under DC 7700 (no longer exists)
DC 7700 was replaced in the 2018 § 4.117 restructure. Iron deficiency anemia now rates under DC 7720. Pernicious anemia / B12 deficiency rates under DC 7722 separately.
Not filing anemia secondary to an SC GI condition
Chronic blood loss from Crohn's, UC, hemorrhoids, or chronic NSAID gastritis causes iron-deficiency anemia. File the anemia secondary on top of the underlying GI rating.
Settling for 0% when on oral iron Rx
Continuous oral iron supplementation = 10% minimum. File for the minimum rating with prescription records.
Missing the IV iron infusion track to 30%
Modern IV iron formulations (Injectafer, Feraheme) are administered as 1-2 infusion courses but cycle each year. If you receive 4+ infusions/year, you're at 30%.
Tactical Plays
⚡ File DC 7720 secondary to your SC GI bleeding source
Crohn's (DC 7326), UC (DC 7323), hemorrhoids (DC 7336), anal fistula (DC 7335) all cause chronic blood loss. If any is service-connected, file DC 7720 secondary with serial CBCs showing iron deficiency. Direct presumptive nexus — no separate medical opinion needed.
⚡ Document oral iron Rx for the automatic 10%
Continuous oral iron supplementation is the 10% gate. Many veterans on chronic oral iron miss this minimum rating. File with pharmacy records showing continuous fills.
⚡ Push toward 30% if on IV iron infusions
4+ IV iron infusions/year = 30%. Modern formulations (Injectafer, Feraheme) often cycle yearly. Pull infusion center records to support the count.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Crohn's disease / ulcerative colitis (underlying cause)
STRONGDC 7326 / 7323
Chronic GI blood loss from IBD is a well-documented cause of iron-deficiency anemia. Direct presumptive secondary if IBD is SC.
Hemorrhoids with chronic bleeding
STRONGDC 7336
Persistent hemorrhoidal bleeding causes chronic iron deficiency. Direct nexus if hemorrhoids are SC.
Anal fistula with chronic drainage/bleeding
MODERATEDC 7335
Chronic perianal blood loss contributes to anemia. Stacks if both are SC.
Chronic gastritis / peptic ulcer
MODERATEGI bleeding from chronic gastritis or ulcer disease causes IDA. Common with chronic NSAID use.
Heavy menstrual bleeding (female veterans)
SITUATIONALMenorrhagia + service-connected gynecologic condition can drive IDA.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
0% — single, no dependents
TOTAL
$0.00/mo
Lab-confirmed IDA, dietary modification only.
10% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$180.42
TOTAL
$180.42/mo
Continuous oral iron Rx OR 1-3 IV iron infusions/year.
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
4+ IV iron infusions per 12-month period.
60% Crohn's + 30% IDA secondary
Base rating
$1,808.45
TOTAL
$1,808.45/mo
Stacking underlying SC IBD + secondary anemia — different DCs, no pyramiding.
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 happened to DC 7700?
Removed in the 2018 § 4.117 restructure. The old DC 7700 ('anemia, hypochromic-microcytic and megaloblastic') was split into specific etiology codes: DC 7720 (iron deficiency), DC 7722 (B12/pernicious), DC 7721 (folic acid deficiency), DC 7723 (acquired hemolytic), DC 7716 (aplastic).
↔️What's the difference between DC 7720 and DC 7722?
DC 7720 = iron deficiency anemia (caps at 30%). DC 7722 = pernicious anemia / B12 deficiency (10% on continuous B12 therapy; 100% on initial diagnosis with CNS involvement). Different etiologies, different schedules.
💉What IV iron formulations count?
Iron sucrose (Venofer), ferric carboxymaltose (Injectafer), ferumoxytol (Feraheme), low molecular weight iron dextran (INFeD). Each administration counts toward the 4+/year gate for 30%.
How to File Your Claim
Pull CBC + iron studies labs
Confirm IDA specifically (low Hgb, low MCV, low ferritin or low transferrin saturation).
Document treatment regimen
Oral iron Rx (continuous) or IV iron infusion records.
Identify underlying cause
GI evaluation if chronic blood loss suspected. Links to the underlying SC condition for secondary pathway.
File 21-526EZ specifying 'iron deficiency anemia (DC 7720)'
File secondary to the underlying SC condition if applicable.
Audit other hemic/lymphatic conditions
If you also have B12 deficiency, file DC 7722 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
DC 7700 no longer exists
Replaced by DC 7720 (iron deficiency) and other etiology-specific codes in the 2018 § 4.117 restructure.
Caps at 30%
Iron deficiency anemia maxes at 30% regardless of severity. For higher hemic ratings, look at specific causes (e.g., aplastic anemia DC 7716 reaches 100%).
File secondary to SC GI conditions
Crohn's, UC, hemorrhoids, anal fistula — any chronic GI bleeding source is a direct presumptive secondary pathway.
Continuous oral iron = automatic 10%
Don't accept 0% if you have a continuous oral iron prescription. Pharmacy records support the minimum rating.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn't DC 7700 in the current schedule?
DC 7700 was removed in the 2018 § 4.117 restructure. Anemia codes were broken out by etiology: DC 7720 (iron deficiency), DC 7722 (B12/pernicious), DC 7721 (folic acid), DC 7723 (acquired hemolytic), DC 7716 (aplastic). File under whichever specific code matches your diagnosis.
Can I rate iron deficiency anemia secondary to my Crohn's disease?
Yes — chronic GI blood loss from IBD is a well-documented cause of iron-deficiency anemia. File DC 7720 secondary to SC Crohn's (DC 7326) with serial CBCs and iron studies. Direct presumptive nexus.
How many IV iron infusions do I need for 30%?
4 or more infusions in a 12-month period. Pull infusion center records (Venofer, Injectafer, Feraheme administration logs) to support the count.
Does oral iron supplementation qualify for any rating?
Yes — continuous oral iron Rx qualifies for 10% minimum. Pharmacy records showing continuous fills support this rating. Don't let the rater settle for 0% if you're on daily oral iron.
Official Regulatory Source
Iron deficiency anemia is rated under 38 CFR § 4.117, DC 7720 — the post-2018 replacement for old DC 7700.
38 CFR § 4.117 — Hemic and Lymphatic Systems (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 7720. § 4.117 was restructured in 2018 to break out anemia by etiology.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 7720, 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 7720 • 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.