Scar(s), unstable or painful — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7804)

The VA rates Scar(s), unstable or painful under Diagnostic Code 7804 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 10% rating requires: One or two scars that are unstable or painful. The maximum 30% rating requires: Five or more scars that are unstable or painful.

Diagnostic Code 7804 is the VA rating identifier for Scar(s), unstable or painful within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Scar(s), unstable or painful under DC 7804 is 30%. This tier requires: Five or more scars that are unstable or painful. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Scar(s), unstable or painful alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Scar(s), unstable or painful is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7804. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Scar(s), unstable or painful may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Scar(s), unstable or painful requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.