Bulbar palsy
The VA rates Bulbar palsy under Diagnostic Code 8005 at a single 100% level. The applicable level depends on the full criteria and the evidence for the condition. These percentages are alternatives, not amounts to add together.
Rating schedule — DC 8005 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 100%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- CFR section
- § 4.124a
- Body system
- Neurological Conditions
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Bulbar palsy?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Bulbar palsy |
“Bulbar palsy”
What other neurological conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Bulbar palsy in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.
- 8000Encephalitis, epidemic, chronicRated up to 100%
- 8002Brain, new growth of, malignantRated up to 100%
- 8003Brain, new growth of, benignRated up to 60%
- 8004Paralysis agitansRated up to 30%
- 8009Brain, vessels, hemorrhage fromRated up to 100%
- 8010MyelitisRated up to 10%
- 8011Poliomyelitis, anteriorRated up to 100%
- 8012HematomyeliaRated up to 100%
- 8017Amyotrophic lateral sclerosisRated up to 100%
- 8018Multiple sclerosisRated up to 30%
Common Questions About Bulbar palsy VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Bulbar palsy?
The VA rates Bulbar palsy under Diagnostic Code 8005 at 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: Bulbar palsy. The maximum 100% rating requires: Bulbar palsy.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Bulbar palsy?
The VA rates Bulbar palsy under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8005, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Bulbar palsy qualify for TDIU?
Yes — a 100% rating for Bulbar palsy alone meets the single-disability threshold for TDIU (38 CFR § 4.16). If the condition prevents substantially gainful employment, the veteran is compensated at the 100% rate without a schedular 100% rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Bulbar palsy?
The key evidence for Bulbar palsy is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For neurological conditions, nerve conduction studies, EMG results, and documentation of complete vs incomplete paralysis distinguish the rating tiers. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.
What happens at the C&P exam for Bulbar palsy?
The C&P examiner uses a Neurological Conditions DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 8005 rating criteria. The examiner tests reflexes, sensation, and motor function. If nerve damage is suspected, EMG or nerve conduction studies may be ordered. Distinguish between complete and incomplete paralysis — the rating difference is significant.
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