Proposed rule Proposed rule Updated October 2026
VA's Proposed Mental Disorders Rating Overhaul: Still a Proposal
In February 2022, VA proposed replacing the general rating formula for mental disorders with a five-domain functional assessment. As of October 2026, the proposal has not been finalized. This briefing explains the distinction between proposal and law.
The Veteran's Bearing / Intelligence Briefing
01 / What Changed
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VA proposed evaluating mental disorders across five functional domains: cognition; interpersonal interactions and relationships; task completion and life activities; navigating environments and circumstances; and self-care and independent living.
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The proposal would combine the separate general rating formula for eating disorders into the general formula and add new diagnostic codes.
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As of October 2026, no final rule has been published. The current rating criteria remain in effect.
02 / What It Means
A proposal is not a change. Veterans should not assume new criteria apply to their claims. The current schedule governs claims decided today, and proposed criteria have no effect until a final rule is published in the Federal Register.
03 / Why It Matters
This is a case study in why proposed and current must be kept separate. Reading about a proposed rule can create the impression that the law has changed. It has not, until the rulemaking is complete. Decisions about claims should be based on current law.
04 / Medical Evidence • Legal Framework • Strategic Execution
Medical Evidence
The proposal would evaluate functional impact across five domains rather than a single formula.
Legal Framework
Until a final rule is published, the existing rating criteria are the law.
Strategic Execution
Decisions about timing and development should be based on current law, not speculation about pending rules.
05 / Sources
Related topics
Note
This briefing is educational commentary, not legal advice. Proposed rules are not law. Verify current law and policy against the official sources listed above before relying on any development.
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