Migraine
Migraine is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8100, from 0% to 50% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 50% rating requires: With very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Migraine?
With less frequent attacks
Note: Migraines must be formally diagnosed and documented. The 0% non-compensable rating applies when migraines are infrequent and do not interfere significantly with functioning. Characteristic migraine features include prodrome, photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, and aura.
With characteristic prostrating attacks averaging one in 2 months over last several months
Note: "Prostrating" means incapacitating — the veteran must stop normal activity and rest. Frequency is key to the rating. Documentation of each migraine episode with dates, duration, and severity is essential for rating purposes.
With characteristic prostrating attacks occurring on an average once a month over last several months
With very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability
Note: "Severe economic inadaptability" is the regulatory standard for the 50% maximum rating — it means the migraines seriously impair the veteran's ability to maintain gainful employment. Veterans with 50% migraines may qualify for TDIU if they cannot work.
“With characteristic prostrating attacks occurring on an average once a month over last several months”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Migraine?
View 4 secondary conditions linked to Migraine
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Migraine VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Migraine?
The VA rates Migraine under Diagnostic Code 8100 at 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%. The minimum 0% rating requires: With less frequent attacks. The maximum 50% rating requires: With very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Migraine?
The VA rates Migraine under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8100, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 50% rating for Migraine?
A 0% rating requires: With less frequent attacks. A 50% rating requires: With very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Migraine qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Migraine 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.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Migraine?
Service connection for Migraine 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.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Migraine?
Migraine is associated with 4 documented secondary conditions. 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.
What is the C&P exam like for Migraine?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Migraine 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.
Get a Personalized Rating Analysis
VeteranHQ evaluates your symptoms against the exact 38 CFR criteria, identifies secondary conditions, and shows what evidence you need to support a higher rating.
Discover Your Benefits