Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is rated under Diagnostic Code 8045, and it works differently from most conditions. Instead of a single symptom scale, the VA scores ten facets of cognitive impairment and uses your worst facet to set the rating.
How the VA rates TBI
The examiner scores ten areas, like memory and attention, judgment, social interaction, orientation, motor activity, visual-spatial orientation, subjective symptoms, neurobehavioral effects, communication, and consciousness. Each facet gets a level from 0 to 3 (or “total”), and your highest single facet level sets the rating:
- Highest facet level 0 gives 0%.
- Level 1 gives 10%.
- Level 2 gives 40%.
- Level 3 gives 70%.
- Level “total” gives 100%.
Residuals are rated separately. A TBI often causes distinct conditions, like migraines, a mental health condition, or physical problems, that carry their own diagnostic codes and their own ratings. Those combine with the TBI rating. That’s why a TBI claim is usually about far more than the single 8045 number.
Getting service-connected
You generally need a diagnosis, evidence of the in-service head injury (blast exposure, vehicle accident, fall, sports), and a nexus. Document every residual, including headaches, sleep issues, mood changes, and memory problems, so each one gets considered.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get separate ratings for my TBI and my migraines?
Often, yes. Distinct residual conditions like migraines or a mental health condition are generally rated under their own diagnostic codes and combined with the TBI rating, as long as the VA isn’t counting the same symptom twice.
Why did I only get 10% when I have many symptoms?
The base 8045 rating comes from your single worst cognitive facet, not the number of symptoms. Make sure every residual condition is claimed separately so it can add to your combined rating.
General educational information based on the VA’s rating schedule (38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8045). Not legal advice or a rating decision, and not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For help, use a free VA-accredited representative.
Last reviewed: July 2026. Primary source: 38 CFR 4.124a (Diagnostic Code 8045), via VA.gov and the eCFR.