Migraine VA disability:
ratings, evidence and next steps.
Understand the rating criteria, organize supporting records, and find official help with your claim.
GrantsHubUSA · Independent editorial guide
- Diagnostic code
- DC 8100
- Rating framework
- 38 CFR § 4.124a
- Key consideration
- How often attacks are prostrating
Overview
How VA evaluates migraines.
VA rates migraines under DC 8100 based on how often you have prostrating attacks, meaning attacks severe enough that you need to stop and rest.
The 50% level also requires attacks that are very frequent, prolonged and productive of severe economic inadaptability, so evidence about work impact matters.
A diagnosis alone does not establish a particular rating.
Migraine rating criteria, at a glance.
The rating levels under DC 8100.
| Rating | Criteria in brief |
|---|---|
| 0% | Less frequent attacks. |
| 10% | Characteristic prostrating attacks averaging one in 2 months over the last several months. |
| 30% | Characteristic prostrating attacks occurring on average once a month over the last several months. |
| 50% | Very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability. |
Source: 38 CFR § 4.124a, DC 8100
These summaries are not the full legal criteria or a self-assessment tool.VA decides the rating from the evidence. Read the full regulation text at the source link.
Build a clear evidence record.
- Treatment recordsDiagnosis, medications and any tests that ruled out other causes.
- Headache logDate, length and severity of each attack, and whether you had to lie down.
- Work recordsDays missed, reduced hours or other effects on work.
- Statements from othersPeople who have seen what an attack looks like.
Preparing for a C&P exam
- 1Follow the instructions in your appointment notice, and call the exam provider if you need to reschedule.
- 2Describe symptoms honestly, including how often they happen, how long they last, and changes over time.
- 3Explain the effects on work, relationships and everyday activities, including your worst days.
Common pitfalls to avoid.
- No frequency recordKeep a log so you can show how often attacks happen.
- Missed appointmentsContact the exam provider before the date if you cannot attend.
- Vague descriptionsExplain what you cannot do during an attack and for how long.
Questions about migraine claims.
No. VA first decides whether the condition is service-connected, then rates it based on the evidence of how it affects you. A diagnosis alone does not set a rating.
VA compares the evidence, including the exam report and your records, with the criteria in 38 CFR § 4.124a. When the evidence falls between two levels, VA assigns the higher one if the disability more nearly matches it (38 CFR § 4.7).
Read your appointment notice, bring a list of medications and treatment, and be ready to describe how often symptoms happen, how long they last, and how they affect work, relationships and daily activities. If you cannot attend, contact the exam provider before the appointment.
VA's directory lists accredited attorneys, claims agents and Veterans Service Organization representatives. Help from a Veterans Service Organization is free.
Check the original guidance.
This guide explains published information. It does not replace medical care or advice from an accredited claims professional.
Make your next step a clear one.
Explore more conditions, or use the VA pay calculator to plan ahead.