TBI 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 8045
- Rating framework
- 38 CFR § 4.124a
- Key consideration
- The most affected of 10 facets
Overview
How VA evaluates traumatic brain injury.
VA rates the cognitive residuals of a traumatic brain injury under DC 8045 using a table of 10 facets.
They are memory, attention, concentration and executive functions; judgment; social interaction; orientation; motor activity; visual spatial orientation; subjective symptoms; neurobehavioral effects; communication; and consciousness.
Each facet is assessed at a level from 0 to 3, or total. The overall rating comes from the single highest facet, not from adding them up. Physical and emotional effects can be rated separately under their own codes.
A diagnosis alone does not establish a particular rating.
TBI rating criteria, at a glance.
How the highest facet level sets the overall rating under DC 8045.
| Rating | Criteria in brief |
|---|---|
| 0% | Highest facet is level 0. |
| 10% | Highest facet is level 1. |
| 40% | Highest facet is level 2. |
| 70% | Highest facet is level 3. |
| 100% | One or more facets is rated total. |
Source: 38 CFR § 4.124a, DC 8045
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.
- Record of the injuryService records of the blast, accident, fall or other head injury.
- TBI examAn evaluation by a qualified specialist covering all 10 facets.
- TestingNeuropsychological testing and any imaging. Normal imaging does not by itself rule out a TBI.
- Statements from othersFamily members who noticed changes in memory, mood or behavior.
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.
- Incomplete evaluationMake sure the exam covers all 10 facets.
- Missed appointmentsContact the exam provider before the date if you cannot attend.
- Unreported symptomsReport headaches, sleep and mood changes so they can be evaluated.
Questions about TBI 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.