What is the ICD-10 code for depression?

The ICD-10-CM code for depression is F32.A when documented without further specification. More specific documentation changes the code — see the scenario table.

Yes — F32.A is a billable ICD-10-CM code, but payers expect the most specific code the documentation supports.

ICD-10 Code for depression

The ICD-10-CM code for depression is F32.A when documented without further specification. Since FY2022, unspecified depression ("depression NOS") codes to F32.A. A documented major depressive disorder uses F32 (single episode) or F33 (recurrent) with severity-specific characters.

Which Code Should You Use?

F32.A — Depression, unspecified

Depression, unspecified ("depression NOS") - no episode pattern or severity documented.

F32.9 — Major depressive disorder, single episode, unspecified

Major depressive disorder, single episode, unspecified severity.

F32.1 — Major depressive disorder, single episode, moderate

MDD, single episode, documented moderate severity.

F33.9 — Major depressive disorder, recurrent, unspecified

Recurrent major depressive disorder, unspecified.

F43.21 — Adjustment disorder with depressed mood

Adjustment disorder with depressed mood (identifiable stressor).

What to Document

Whether the diagnosis is MDD (vs unspecified depression) - F32.A vs F32/F33 hinges on it.
Single vs recurrent episode (F32 vs F33 category choice).
Severity (mild/moderate/severe, with or without psychotic features).

Coding Notes

"Depression NOS" indexes to F32.A (Depression, unspecified - added FY2022); "major depression NOS" indexes to F32.9. Postpartum depression has its own code (F53.0).

ICD-10 Code for depression

Which Code Should You Use?

What to Document

Coding Notes

References

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