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How to Download 38 CFR: A Guide for Veterans and Their Families

If you are a veteran or a family member of a veteran, you may have heard of 38 CFR, or the Code of Federal Regulations Title 38. This is a set of rules and regulations that governs the benefits and services that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides to veterans and their dependents. One of the most important parts of 38 CFR is Part 4, which is the Schedule for Rating Disabilities. This part determines how much disability compensation a veteran can receive based on their service-connected injuries or illnesses.

In this article, we will explain what 38 CFR is, why you may want to download it, how you can download it, and how you can use it. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about 38 CFR. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of this important document and how it can help you or your loved one.

What is 38 CFR?

Before we get into how to download 38 CFR, let’s first understand what it is and what it contains.

The Code of Federal Regulations

The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is a collection of rules and regulations that are issued by various federal agencies to implement and enforce the laws passed by Congress. The CFR is divided into 50 titles, each covering a broad area of federal regulation. For example, Title 8 covers Aliens and Nationality, Title 21 covers Food and Drugs, and Title 40 covers Protection of Environment.

The CFR is updated annually, with each title being revised once a year on a staggered schedule. The updates are published in the Federal Register, which is the official daily publication for federal rules, proposed rules, notices, and other documents. The updates are also available online through various sources, such as eCFR (Electronic Code of Federal Regulations), which we will discuss later.

Title 38: Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans’ Relief

Title 38 of the CFR covers Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans’ Relief. This title contains the rules and regulations that are issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to administer its programs and services for veterans and their dependents. These programs and services include:

• Compensation for service-connected disabilities
• Pension for non-service-connected disabilities
• Education and training benefits
• Vocational rehabilitation and employment benefits
• Home loan guaranty benefits
• Life insurance benefits
• Burial benefits
• Health care benefits
• National cemetery administration
• Fiduciary activities
• Legal services
• Board of Veterans’ Appeals

Title 38 consists of four volumes, each containing several parts or chapters. The parts are numbered from 0 to 63, while the chapters are numbered from I to III. The chapters https://www.govinfo.gov/.

To download 38 CFR from Govinfo, you can follow these steps:

1. Go to https://www.govinfo.gov/ and click on the “Browse” tab.
2. Select “Code of Federal Regulations” from the list of collections and click on the “Go” button.
3. You will see a list of titles and years under the Code of Federal Regulations. You can select the title and year that you want to download, or use the filters on the left to narrow down your search.
4. If you want to download 38 CFR for the current year, you can select “Title 38” and “2023” from the list. You will see a list of volumes and parts under Title 38 for 2023. You can click on any part to view its contents, or click on the “PDF” icon to download the whole part as a PDF file.
5. If you want to download Part 4, you can either click on the “PDF” icon next to it, or click on the part number to view its subparts and sections. You can then download each subpart or section individually as a PDF file by clicking on the “PDF” icon next to them.
6. You can also use the search function at the top of the page to find specific sections or keywords within 38 CFR. You can then download the results as a PDF file by clicking on the “PDF” icon next to them.

Offline Sources of 38 CFR

If you prefer to have a physical copy of 38 CFR, you can also obtain it offline from print or CD-ROM copies. Here are some options:

Print Copies of 38 CFR

You can order print copies of 38 CFR from the U.S. Government Bookstore, which is operated by the GPO. You can access the U.S. Government Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov/.

To order print copies of 38 CFR from the U.S. Government Bookstore, you can follow these steps:

1. Go to https://bookstore.gpo.gov/ and click on the “Search” tab.
2. Type “38 CFR” in the search box and click on the “Search” button.
3. You will see a list of products related to 38 CFR. You can select the product that you want to order, or use the filters on the left to narrow down your search.
4. If you want to order print copies of 38 CFR for the current year, you can select “Code of Federal Regulations, Title 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans’ Relief, Revised as of July 1, 2023 (Paperback)” from the list. You will see a product page with more details and options.
5. You can choose the quantity that you want to order, add it to your cart, and proceed to checkout. You will need to provide your shipping and payment information, and confirm your order.

CD-ROM Copies of 38 CFR

You can also order CD-ROM copies of 38 CFR from various online retailers, such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble. These CD-ROMs contain electronic versions of 38 CFR that are searchable and printable. They are usually updated annually and include all four volumes of Title 38.

To order CD-ROM copies of 38 CFR from online retailers, you can follow these steps:

Go to the website of your preferred online retailer, such as https://www.amazon.com/ or https://www.barnesandnoble.com/.

Type “38 CFR CD-ROM” in the search box and click on the “Search” button.

You will see a list of products related to 38 CFR CD-ROM. You can select the product that you want to order, or use the filters on the left to narrow down your search.

If you want to order CD-ROM copies of 38 CFR for the current year, you can select “Code of Federal Regulations, Title 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans’ Relief, Revised as of July 1, 2023 (CD-ROM)” from the list. You will see a product page with more details and options.

You can choose the quantity that you want to order, add it to your cart, and proceed to checkout. You will need to provide your shipping and payment information, and confirm your order.

How to Use 38 CFR?

Once you have downloaded or obtained a copy of 38 CFR, you may wonder how to use it effectively. Here are some tips for navigating and understanding 38 CFR.

Tips for Navigating 38 CFR

38 CFR is a large and complex document that can be difficult to navigate. Here are some tips for finding what you need in 38 CFR:

Using the Table of Contents

The table of contents is a useful tool for getting an overview of the structure and contents of 38 CFR. It lists the titles, volumes, parts, subparts, sections, and subsections of 38 CFR in a hierarchical order. You can use the table of contents to locate the part or section that you are looking for, or to browse through the topics that interest you.

The table of contents is usually located at the beginning of each volume or part of 38 CFR. You can also access it online from various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo. For example, you can find the table of contents for Title 38 at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=7d0f9d8b6c0f6c5f9b8e9c0f5e1c5b7f&mc=true&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38tab_02.tpl.

Using the Indexes

The indexes are another useful tool for finding specific information or keywords in 38 CFR. They list the terms and phrases that appear in 38 CFR in alphabetical order, along with their corresponding parts or sections. You can use the indexes to look up a term or phrase that you are interested in, or to cross-reference different parts or sections of 38 CFR.

The indexes are usually located at the end of each volume or part of 38 CFR. You can also access them online from various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo. For example, you can find the index for Part 4 at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=7d0f9d8b6c0f6c5f9b8e9c0f5e1c5b7f&mc=true&node=pt38.1.4&rgn=div5#ap38.1.4_1100.a.

Using the Search Functions

The search functions are another useful tool for finding specific information or keywords in 38 CFR. They allow you to enter a query and get a list of results that match your query. You can use the search functions to find a part or section that contains your query, or to narrow down your search by using filters or operators.

The search functions are available online from various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo. For example, you can use the search function at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse to search for any term or phrase within Title 38.

Tips for Understanding 38 CFR

38 CFR is a legal and technical document that can be difficult to understand. Here are some tips for interpreting and applying 38 CFR:

Reading the General Policy in Rating

The General Policy in Rating is a subpart of Part 4 that provides general guidance and principles on how to rate disabilities. It covers topics such as:

• The – The purpose and scope of rating disabilities – The interpretation and application of the rating schedule – The evaluation of evidence and medical examinations – The finality and revision of decisions – The effective dates and retroactive payments – The combined ratings and bilateral factors – The special provisions for certain disabilities and situations

You can find the General Policy in Rating in Subpart A of Part 4, from Section 4.1 to Section 4.31. You can also access it online from various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo. For example, you can find the General Policy in Rating at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=7d0f9d8b6c0f6c5f9b8e9c0f5e1c5b7f&mc=true&node=sp38.1.4.a&rgn=div6.

You should read the General Policy in Rating carefully and thoroughly before reading the specific disability ratings. It will help you understand the basic rules and concepts that apply to all ratings, and avoid common errors and misunderstandings.

Reading the Disability Ratings

The Disability Ratings are the subparts of Part 4 that provide the specific criteria and percentages for rating various disabilities. They cover different body systems and functions, such as:

• The Musculoskeletal System – The Organs of Special Sense – The Respiratory System – The Cardiovascular System – The Digestive System – The Genitourinary System – The Gynecological Conditions and Disorders of the Breast – The Hemic and Lymphatic Systems – The Skin – The Endocrine System – The Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders – The Mental Disorders – The Dental and Oral Conditions – The Infectious Diseases, Immune Disorders, and Nutritional Deficiencies

You can find the Disability Ratings in Subpart B of Part 4, from Section 4.40 to Section 4.150. You can also access them online from various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo. For example, you can find the Disability Ratings at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=7d0f9d8b6c0f6c5f9b8e9c0f5e1c5b7f&mc=true&node=sp38.1.4.b&rgn=div6.

You should read the Disability Ratings carefully and thoroughly for each condition that you have or claim. They will help you determine how your condition is rated, what evidence you need to support your claim, and what factors may affect your rating.

Reading the Supplements and Appendices

The Supplements and Appendices are the subparts of Part 4 that provide additional information and guidance on how to apply the rating criteria. They include:

• Supplement A: Glossary of Medical Terms – Supplement B: Table of Muscle Injuries – Supplement C: Principles of Audiometric Testing – Supplement D: Tables Relating Hearing Loss to Speech Discrimination Scores – Supplement E: Table Relating Hearing Impairment to Percentages of Impairment in Communication – Supplement F: Table Showing Relationship of Visual Acuity Impairments to Percentages of Visual Impairment in Central Visual Field Losses – Supplement G: Table Showing Relationship of Visual Field Impairment to Percentages of Visual Impairment in Central Visual Field Losses – Supplement H: Table Showing Relationship of Visual Impairment to Percentages of Visual Impairment in Central Visual Field Losses with Both Central Acuity Losses and Peripheral Field Defects Combined – Appendix A: Table of Amputations – Appendix B: Numerical Designation of Disabilities

You can find the Supplements and Appendices in Subpart C of Part 4, from Section 4.200 to Section 4.210. You can also access them online from various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo. For example, you can find the Supplements and Appendices at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=7d0f9d8b6c0f6c5f9b8e9c0f5e1c5b7f&mc=true&node=sp38.1.4.c&rgn=div6.

You should read the Supplements and Appendices carefully and thoroughly when they are relevant to your condition or claim. They will help you understand the medical terms, measurements, tests, tables, and formulas that are used to rate your disability.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explained what 38 CFR is, why you may want to download it, how you can download it, and how you can use it. We hope that this article has helped you gain a better understanding of this important document and how it can help you or your loved one.

If you are a veteran or a family member of a veteran, we encourage you to download 38 CFR and use it as a reference for your benefits and services. It can help you stay informed of your rights and entitlements, understand the rules and regulations, prepare for your claims and appeals, verify your disability rating and compensation, and learn about other benefits and services.

You can download 38 CFR online from various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo, or offline from print or CD-ROM copies. You can also use the table of contents, the indexes, and the search functions to navigate 38 CFR, and read the general policy in rating, the disability ratings, and the supplements and appendices to understand 38 CFR.

If you have any questions or concerns about 38 CFR, or if you need any assistance with your benefits and services, please contact the VA at https://www.va.gov/ or call 1-800-827-1000. They will be happy to help you with your needs.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about 38 CFR:

What is the difference between eCFR and WARMS?

eCFR and WARMS are both online sources of 38 CFR, but they have some differences. eCFR is updated daily by the OFR and the GPO, while WARMS is updated periodically by the VA OI&T. eCFR provides current and accurate information on the federal rules and regulations in effect at any given time, while WARMS provides historical and archival information on the VA manuals, directives, handbooks, and other reference materials. eCFR offers XML files for downloading 38 CFR, while WARMS offers PDF files for downloading 38 CFR.

How often is 38 CFR updated?

38 CFR is updated annually, with each title being revised once a year on a staggered schedule. The updates are published in the Federal Register, which is the official daily publication for federal rules, proposed rules, notices, and other documents. The updates are also available online through various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo. The updates usually take effect on July 1 of each year.

How can I find out the effective date of a change in 38 CFR?

You can find out the effective date of a change in 38 CFR by checking the Federal Register notice that announces the change. The Federal Register notice will provide the date when the change will take effect, as well as the reason and authority for the change. You can access the Federal Register online at https://www.federalregister.gov/, or search for it using various sources, such as eCFR, WARMS, or Govinfo.

How can I appeal a decision based on 38 CFR?

If you disagree with a decision made by the VA based on 38 CFR, you have the right to appeal it. You can appeal a decision by following these steps:

1. File a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) with your VA regional office within one year from the date of the decision letter. You can use VA Form 21-0958 to file your NOD.
2. Choose between two options for your appeal: a Higher-Level Review (HLR) or a Supplemental Claim (SC). A HLR is a review by a senior VA adjudicator who will look at your existing evidence and apply a higher level of deference to your claim. An SC is a review by a new VA adjudicator who will consider new and relevant evidence that you submit with your claim.
3. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your HLR or SC, you can appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA). You can use VA Form 10182 to file your appeal to the BVA. You can choose between three options for your BVA appeal: a Direct Review (DR), an Evidence Submission (ES), or a Hearing (H). A DR is a review by a BVA judge who will look at your existing evidence without any additional submissions or hearings. An ES is a review by a BVA judge who will look at your existing evidence plus any new evidence that you submit within 90 days from filing your appeal. A H is a review by a B VA judge who will look at your existing evidence plus any new evidence that you submit at or before your hearing. You can request a hearing by videoconference, teleconference, or in person.
4. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your BVA appeal, you can appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC). You can use VA Form 9 to file your appeal to the CAVC. You can choose to represent yourself or hire a lawyer or an accredited representative to assist you. The CAVC is an independent judicial body that will review the legal aspects of your claim and issue a decision.
5. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your CAVC appeal, you can appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC). You can use Form 10-3 to file your appeal to the CAFC. You will need to hire a lawyer or an accredited representative to assist you. The CAFC is a higher-level judicial body that will review the legal aspects of your claim and issue a decision.
6. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your CAFC appeal, you can appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS). You can use Form 10-4 to file your appeal to the SCOTUS. You will need to hire a lawyer or an accredited representative to assist you. The SCOTUS is the highest-level judicial body in the country that will review the legal aspects of your claim and issue a decision.

Where can I get more help with 38 CFR?

If you need more help with 38 CFR, you can contact the VA or seek assistance from various sources, such as:

• The VA website: https://www.va.gov/. You can find information, resources, tools, and services related to 38 CFR and other VA benefits and services.
• The VA toll-free number: 1-800-827-1000. You can call this number to speak with a VA representative who can answer your questions and provide guidance on 38 CFR and other VA benefits and services.
• The VA regional offices: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=benefits. You can visit or contact your nearest VA regional office to get help with 38 CFR and other VA benefits and services.
• The VA accredited representatives: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp. You can find and contact a VA accredited representative who can help you with 38 CFR and other VA benefits and services. A VA accredited representative is a person who has been authorized by the VA to assist veterans and their dependents with their claims and appeals.
• The Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs): https://www.va.gov/vso/. You can find and contact a VSO that can help you with 38 CFR and other VA benefits and services. A VSO is a non-governmental organization that provides advocacy, support, and assistance to veterans and their dependents.
• The State Veterans Affairs Offices (SVAOs): https://www.va.gov/statedva.htm. You can find and contact a SVAO that can help you with 38 CFR and other VA benefits and services. A SVAO is a state-level agency that provides information, resources, and assistance to veterans and their dependents.

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