TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) VA Rating Guide

Overview

Traumatic brain injury occurs from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or a penetrating head injury that disrupts normal brain function. Common in veterans from blast exposure, combat, accidents, or training injuries.

• VA Disability Code: 8045
• ICD Code: S06.9
• Category: Neurological

Rating Percentages & Criteria

100% Rating

Criteria: Total occupational and social impairment due to such symptoms as: gross impairment in thought processes or communication; persistent delusions or hallucinations; grossly inappropriate behavior; persistent danger of hurting self or others; intermittent inability to perform activities of daily living; disorientation to time or place; memory loss for names of close relatives, own occupation, or own name.

Examples:

• Unable to function independently
• Complete cognitive impairment
• Requires constant supervision

70% Rating

Criteria: Occupational and social impairment with deficiencies in most areas, such as work, school, family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood, due to severe TBI residuals including: moderately severe memory impairment; severely impaired judgment; social interaction routinely inappropriate; occasional disorientation.

Examples:

• Cannot maintain employment
• Severe memory problems
• Inappropriate social behavior

40% Rating

Criteria: Occupational and social impairment with occasional decrease in work efficiency and intermittent periods of inability to perform tasks due to: mild memory loss; difficulty following complex commands; impaired judgment; anxiety.

Examples:

• Frequent work difficulties
• Moderate memory problems
• Difficulty with complex tasks

10% Rating

Criteria: Occupational and social impairment due to mild or transient symptoms which decrease work efficiency only during periods of significant stress, or; symptoms controlled by continuous medication.

Examples:

• Mild headaches
• Occasional memory lapses
• Symptoms controlled with medication

0% Rating

Criteria: A diagnosis of TBI has been established but symptoms are not severe enough to interfere with occupational and social functioning or to require continuous medication.

Examples:

• Diagnosed TBI with minimal residuals

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Chronic headaches
• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Mood changes or irritability
• Depression or anxiety
• Fatigue
• Vision problems

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Medical records documenting TBI event and diagnosis
• Neuropsychological testing results
• Brain imaging (CT, MRI)
• Buddy statements about observed changes
• Service records documenting head trauma
• VA TBI screening and evaluation

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Migraines (Strong Connection)

TBI commonly causes chronic post-traumatic headaches

PTSD (Strong Connection)

TBI and PTSD frequently co-occur from the same traumatic event

Depression (Strong Connection)

TBI often causes depression due to neurological changes

Sleep Apnea (Moderate Connection)

TBI can disrupt sleep regulation centers

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

Prepare for your C&P exam with these strategic tips:

• Document all symptoms from the date of injury to present
• Bring any neuropsychological testing results
• Describe how cognitive issues affect daily life and work
• List all medications and treatments
• Explain the worst days, not just average days

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim TBI from blast exposure without a direct hit?

Yes. Blast waves can cause TBI even without direct head impact. Document all blast exposures during service.

What if my TBI wasn't diagnosed in service?

You can still claim it if you can show the injury occurred during service and establish a nexus to current symptoms.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury):

1. Document everything - Every medical visit, treatment, and symptom counts
2. Get a nexus letter - A medical opinion linking your condition to service is crucial
3. Be thorough - Don't downplay your symptoms in your claim
4. Track progression - Show how the condition has worsened over time
5. Claim secondary conditions - TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) often causes other disabilities

Ready to File Your Claim?

The VA disability system is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. We help veterans understand their benefits, gather strong evidence, and maximize their ratings.

Related Rating Guides:

• Migraines VA Rating Guide
• PTSD VA Rating Guide
• Depression VA Rating Guide