Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, not of the head, face, or neck, that are associated with underlying soft tissue damage

The VA rates Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, not of the head, face, or neck, that are associated with underlying soft tissue damage under Diagnostic Code 7801 at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Area or areas of at least 6 square inches (39 sq. cm.) but less than 12 square inches (77 sq. cm.). The maximum 40% rating requires: Area or areas of 144 square inches (929 sq. cm.) or greater.

The VA rates Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, not of the head, face, or neck, that are associated with underlying soft tissue damage under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7801, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

A 10% rating requires: Area or areas of at least 6 square inches (39 sq. cm.) but less than 12 square inches (77 sq. cm.). A 40% rating requires: Area or areas of 144 square inches (929 sq. cm.) or greater. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Veterans rated for Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, not of the head, face, or neck, that are associated with underlying soft tissue damage may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Service connection for Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, not of the head, face, or neck, that are associated with underlying soft tissue damage requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.

Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, not of the head, face, or neck, that are associated with underlying soft tissue damage is associated with 1 documented secondary condition. Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. See the secondary conditions page for the full list with medical rationale and evidence strength ratings.

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, not of the head, face, or neck, that are associated with underlying soft tissue damage uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.