Thyroid removal, also known as a thyroidectomy, can have long-term effects on a veteran’s health, including hormonal imbalance, heart issues, and mental health complications. While the VA does not assign a disability rating specifically for thyroid removal, veterans may still qualify for significant compensation.
The key lies in understanding how the VA evaluates the underlying thyroid condition and any residual symptoms or complications that remain after surgery.
“Many veterans assume they can’t receive benefits because thyroidectomy doesn’t have its own diagnostic code, but that’s simply not true,” explains Michael Turner, VA-accredited claims agent.
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Can You Get VA Disability for Thyroid Removal?
Yes, veterans can receive VA disability compensation for thyroid removal if the surgery was caused by a service-connected condition and results in ongoing symptoms or complications.
The VA focuses on why the thyroid was removed and how your health is affected afterward, rather than the surgery itself. If you continue to experience symptoms requiring treatment or limiting daily functioning, you may be eligible for compensation.
“The VA looks at functional impact. If thyroid removal affects your heart, metabolism, or mental health, those effects matter,” says Dr. Emily Carter, Endocrinologist and VA medical consultant.
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How the VA Rates Thyroid Removal Under VA Law?
The VA evaluates thyroid-related conditions under 38 CFR §4.119 – Schedule of Ratings, Endocrine System. There is no standalone diagnostic code for thyroidectomy. Instead, ratings are based on:
- The condition that caused the surgery
- Whether the disease is active
- Residual symptoms after treatment
VA Thyroid-Related Ratings
| Condition | Diagnostic Code | Maximum Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Hyperthyroidism | DC 7900 | 30% (initial), residuals rated separately |
| Hypothyroidism with Myxedema | DC 7903 | 100% (temporary) |
| Thyroid Cancer | DC 7914 | 100% (temporary) |
| Residual Complications | Various | Rated by affected body system |
“Veterans often qualify for multiple ratings if thyroid removal causes secondary conditions,” notes Sarah Collins, Veterans Disability Advocate.
VA Rating for Hyperthyroidism After Thyroid Removal
Hyperthyroidism, including Graves’ disease, is evaluated under Diagnostic Code 7900.
The VA assigns:
- 30% disability rating for the first six months following diagnosis
After the six-month period, the VA does not continue a fixed rating. Instead, it evaluates residual symptoms and rates them separately under the appropriate body system.
Common Separately Rated Complications
- Hyperthyroid heart disease (DC 7008)
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Eye conditions related to Graves’ disease
- Vision issues such as double vision or reduced visual acuity
“Hyperthyroidism often affects multiple systems, which can significantly increase a veteran’s combined rating,” explains Dr. Carter.
VA Rating for Hypothyroidism and Myxedema
Hypothyroidism is rated under Diagnostic Code 7903.
- Hypothyroidism without myxedema is rated at 30% for six months following diagnosis
- Hypothyroidism with myxedema may qualify for a 100% VA disability rating
Symptoms of Myxedema
- Cold intolerance
- Muscle weakness
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Low blood pressure
- Heart complications
- Cognitive impairment or depression
The 100% rating lasts for six months after the condition stabilizes, as determined by a physician. Afterward, the VA evaluates residual symptoms separately.
“Myxedema is a medical emergency. Veterans with this condition should not be underrated,” says James Holloway, VA disability attorney.
VA Disability Rating for Thyroid Cancer and Thyroid Removal
Thyroid cancer is evaluated under Diagnostic Code 7914 and carries the most significant potential rating.
- 100% disability rating during active cancer or treatment
- Applies during surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or other therapeutic procedures
- Continues for at least six months after treatment ends
After six months, the VA schedules a mandatory examination. If the cancer is in remission and has not spread, the VA discontinues the temporary 100% rating and assigns new ratings based on lasting effects.
Common Residuals After Thyroid Cancer
- Hypothyroidism
- Vocal cord damage
- Calcium imbalance
- Fatigue and metabolic disorders
Proving Service Connection for Thyroid Removal
To qualify for VA disability compensation, veterans must establish service connection.
You need three elements:
- A current thyroid-related diagnosis
- An in-service event, illness, injury, or toxic exposure
- A medical nexus linking service to the condition
“A strong nexus letter can be the difference between approval and denial,” emphasizes Turner.
Service connection may be:
- Direct
- Secondary
- Presumptive
Is Thyroid Removal a Presumptive VA Condition?
Thyroid removal itself is not presumptive. However, hypothyroidism became a presumptive condition in 2021 for veterans exposed to Agent Orange.
Research has also linked thyroid disorders to toxic exposure at certain military installations, strengthening many claims.
If you qualify under presumptive rules, the VA automatically assumes your condition is service-connected.
Secondary VA Disabilities Caused by Thyroid Removal
Thyroidectomy often results in long-term complications that may qualify as secondary service-connected disabilities.
Common Secondary Conditions
- Heart disease or arrhythmias
- Hypertension
- Depression or anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Neurological symptoms
- Calcium metabolism disorders
These conditions may be rated separately, potentially increasing overall compensation.
“Secondary conditions are frequently overlooked, yet they account for significant disability,” notes Collins.
VA Compensation and Rating Outcomes
VA compensation depends on rating level and dependents.
| Rating Level | Compensation Impact |
|---|---|
| 30% | Monthly compensation with health priority |
| 60% | Higher monthly benefits and additional eligibility |
| 100% | Maximum VA disability compensation |
Veterans with severe limitations may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) or TDIU if unable to work.
Applying for VA Disability After Thyroid Removal
Veterans can file a claim:
- Online
- By mail
- By fax
- In person at a VA regional office
When filing offline, veterans must complete VA Form 21-526EZ. Supporting medical evidence should be included whenever possible.
Why Thyroid Removal VA Ratings Matter?
Thyroid disorders can impact nearly every system in the body. An accurate VA rating ensures access to proper healthcare, financial stability, and recognition of service-related harm.
Underrated claims can result in years of lost compensation and inadequate medical support.
“Veterans deserve ratings that reflect the full scope of their disability, not just the diagnosis,” says Holloway.
FAQs
What is the VA rating for thyroid removal?
There is no specific rating for thyroid removal. The VA rates the underlying condition and any residual symptoms or complications.
What is the VA disability rating for thyroid nodules?
There is no fixed rating. The VA evaluates nodules based on symptoms, treatment, and impact on health.
Can I get 100% VA disability for thyroid removal?
Yes. Thyroid cancer or hypothyroidism with myxedema may qualify for a temporary 100% rating.
Is hypothyroidism a presumptive condition?
Yes, for veterans exposed to Agent Orange in qualifying locations.
Does thyroid removal require lifelong medication?
Most veterans require lifelong hormone replacement, which may factor into disability evaluation.
Can complications after thyroid removal be rated separately?
Yes. Heart issues, mental health conditions, and other complications may qualify as secondary disabilities.
