Traumatic Brain Injury (VA Rating) — TBI
TBI is rated by the VA under DC 8045 by the most affected area of function, with levels of 0%, 10%, 40%, 70%, and 100%.
Official source: ecfr.gov
A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, happens when a blow, jolt, or blast damages the brain. The VA rates TBI under Diagnostic Code 8045 by looking at how much the injury affects ten areas of daily life: memory and attention, judgment, social behavior, knowing where and when you are, motor control, ongoing physical symptoms (such as headaches or sleep trouble), emotional and behavioral changes, communication, and level of consciousness.
Rating levels are 0% (no functional impact), 10% ($180.42 per month in 2026) for mild impact on at least one area, 40% ($795.84) for moderate impact, 70% ($1,808.45) for severe impact, and 100% ($3,938.58) for total impairment. The rule that surprises most veterans is the "worst single area" rule. The VA bases your rating on the single most affected area, not an average of all ten. If you have moderate problems in five areas but no severe area, you may only get 40%. This is one of the most common rating disputes in TBI claims.
Related conditions are rated separately and add on top of your TBI rating. TBI often causes or worsens headaches, PTSD, sleep apnea, depression, and anxiety. Each can be rated separately and combined with your TBI rating, often producing a much higher total than the TBI rating alone.
Blast exposure from IEDs, mortars, and artillery is the leading cause of TBI in post-9/11 veterans. A Nexus Letter connecting an in-service event to your current diagnosis is one of the most important pieces of evidence you can submit. If your TBI symptoms keep you from holding steady work, also file for TDIU, which can pay at the 100% rate even with a lower combined rating.
In real life
- A post-9/11 veteran with moderate memory problems and headaches after a blast injury receives a 40% TBI rating plus separate ratings for headaches and PTSD.
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Frequently asked questions about Traumatic Brain Injury (VA Rating)
How does the VA rate traumatic brain injury?+
The VA rates TBI under Diagnostic Code 8045 across ten areas of function and assigns the rating based on the single most affected area, not an average. Levels are 0%, 10%, 40%, 70%, and 100%.
What is the highest VA rating for TBI?+
100%, worth $3,938.58 per month in 2026 for a veteran alone, awarded for total impairment in at least one of the ten functional areas the VA evaluates.
Can I get separate VA ratings for TBI and PTSD?+
Yes. The VA must rate TBI and any related mental health condition separately whenever the symptoms can be distinguished. Each rating then combines into your overall percentage.
What evidence helps win a VA TBI claim?+
A current TBI diagnosis, records of the in-service event (such as a blast, fall, or vehicle accident), neuropsychological testing, lay statements from family on changes you have noticed, and a Nexus Letter.
Does TBI qualify a veteran for SMC?+
It can. If TBI causes the loss of use of a limb, blindness, or the need for regular aid and attendance, the veteran may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation in addition to the TBI rating.
Source: ecfr.gov