The Gist: Yes, veterans can receive VA disability compensation for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Ratings range from 10% to 100% depending on how severely your symptoms limit your daily life. A strong claim includes service connection evidence, symptom logs, and a clear diagnosis aligned with VA criteria.

Yes — Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is recognized by the VA under Diagnostic Code 6354 in the 38 CFR § 4.88b Schedule of Ratings – Infectious Diseases. Veterans who were diagnosed with CFS during or after military service may be eligible for monthly compensation.

CFS is often misunderstood or minimized, but the VA has clear rating criteria. You don’t have to “prove” how tired you are — you just need documentation showing how CFS limits your work, physical activity, and mental focus over time.

1. Submit an Intent to File to lock in your effective date.
2. Get a diagnosis that meets VA criteria (see Diagnostic Code 6354).
3. Gather service treatment records or buddy statements if diagnosed after service.
4. Keep a detailed log of symptoms and limitations (see example below).
5. File the claim with help from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or through VA.gov.

The VA rates CFS based on severity and frequency of symptoms under Diagnostic Code 6354:

• 10% – Symptoms that wax and wane, but result in periods of incapacitation of at least one but less than two weeks per year.
• 20% – Symptoms more frequent, requiring rest periods and limiting routine daily activities to 50–75% of the normal range.
• 40% – Nearly constant symptoms restricting daily activities to 50% of the expected range.
• 60% – Symptoms that are nearly constant and restrict activities to less than 50% of normal.
• 100% – Debilitating symptoms requiring bed rest and restricting all activities; medical evidence needed to support severity.

Veterans often suffer from multiple overlapping conditions like fibromyalgia and CFS. The VA generally won’t assign separate ratings for symptoms that overlap, but if the conditions produce separate and distinct limitations, separate ratings may be possible. This is especially important if you served in the Gulf War and qualify under presumptive conditions.

Logging your symptoms is one of the best ways to support your claim. Track fatigue levels, recovery times, mental fog, and any missed work or social withdrawal. The ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia Self-Help site has excellent printable forms to use.

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