VA Codes Reference: Diagnostic, End Product, and Status
The VA uses three main code systems that veterans encounter on letters, status pages, and rating decisions: diagnostic codes that identify each rated condition under 38 CFR Part 4, end product (EP) codes that classify what kind of claim is being processed, and status codes that describe where a claim is in the workflow. This reference gives you searchable lookups for all three, plus the rating criteria that apply to each diagnostic code. Use it to decode a letter from the VA, understand what an EP code on your status page means, or check the rating criteria for a specific condition before filing.
Diagnostic Codes (38 CFR Part 4)
Every service-connected condition gets assigned a diagnostic code from the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD) in 38 CFR Part 4. The code identifies the specific condition and points to the rating criteria the VA used to assign the percentage. Common examples include 6260 (tinnitus), 7913 (diabetes), 9411 (PTSD), and 5237 (lumbar strain). The full reference includes every code with its criteria tiers and the section of 38 CFR where the rating schedule lives.
End Product (EP) Code Series
EP code series are internal workload categories used by VA. Published federal reports identify the 010 and 110 series with initial compensation claims, divided by condition count, and the 020, 030, and 040 series with additional-claim or decision-review work. In current AMA reporting, 030 is associated with Higher-Level Review and 040 with Supplemental Claims. A suffix or internal label can narrow the meaning, so an EP code is context, not a deadline or outcome guarantee.
Claim Status Codes
Status codes describe where your claim is in the VA workflow: Claim Received, Initial Review, Evidence Gathering, Review of Evidence, Preparation for Decision, Pending Decision Approval, Preparation for Notification, and Complete. Each status represents a step in the claim lifecycle. Knowing what status means in plain English helps you read the VA.gov claim tracker without guessing what is actually happening.
Common questions
How do I find my condition's diagnostic code?
Look at your VA rating decision letter. Each granted (or denied) condition is listed with its diagnostic code, usually in the form '38 CFR 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5237' or similar. You can also search this reference by condition name. The code points to the rating criteria the VA used to set your percentage.
What is the difference between an EP code and a diagnostic code?
Diagnostic codes identify a medical condition and point to rating criteria. EP codes are internal workload categories for the claim or review process. An initial compensation claim may appear in the 010 or 110 series depending on condition count, while each claimed condition can have its own diagnostic code.
Why does the VA status not match what is actually happening?
The status names describe stages in the VA workflow, but the actual work happening behind the scenes varies. 'Evidence Gathering' might mean waiting on a C&P exam, waiting on records, or waiting for a private opinion. 'Preparation for Decision' usually means the rater is writing the decision. Status changes can also lag the underlying work. The status codes reference explains what is most commonly happening at each stage.