VA Disability for Migraines: Ratings, Evidence & Secondary Conditions

How the VA rates Migraines

Migraines is rated under 38 CFR 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8100 (ratings of 0%–50%). Each criterion below is transcribed verbatim from the VA rating schedule and verified against the regulation (eCFR / Cornell LII) — never paraphrased.

• 0%

  With less frequent attacks.

• 10%

  With characteristic prostrating attacks averaging one in 2 months over the last several months.

• 30%

  With characteristic prostrating attacks occurring on an average once a month over the last several months.

• 50%

  With very frequent completely prostrating and prolonged attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability.

Common conditions secondary to Migraines

Veterans routinely under-claim because they don't know a secondary condition exists. These are commonly claimed as secondary to service-connected Migraines — each is a candidate to raise with your provider, not an automatic grant, and each needs a medical nexus opinion.

• Depressive disorder (secondary to chronic pain)

  Chronic pain and functional limitation commonly contribute to a secondary depressive disorder (mental health secondary to a physical condition).

Evidence the VA looks for

A strong Migraines claim ties a current diagnosis to your service with a medical nexus. The records that move a Migraines claim, in priority order:

• A current migraine diagnosis from a treating provider
• A headache log or treatment records showing how often you have prostrating attacks (the frequency of prostrating attacks drives the rating)
• Documentation of any attacks severe enough to require you to stop activity, lie down, or miss work
• Records of prescribed migraine medication and its effect
• A nexus opinion linking the migraines to service — or to a service-connected condition (tinnitus, a cervical-spine condition, TBI, or a mental-health condition) if claimed as secondary

The C&P exam & the nexus

For most Migraines claims the VA schedules a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. The examiner measures the things the rating schedule turns on and gives a medical opinion on whether your Migraines is at least as likely as not connected to your service (the “nexus”). Knowing what the examiner will assess — and bringing the evidence above — is the single biggest thing you control. Prepare for the exam and check that your records support a nexus before you file.

Migraines VA disability: frequently asked questions

How does the VA rate migraines?

Migraines are rated under 38 CFR 4.124a (Diagnostic Code 8100) at 0, 10, 30, or 50 percent, based on how frequent and prostrating your attacks are and how much they affect your ability to work. The ladder on this page shows each level's criteria.

What does 'prostrating' mean for a migraine claim?

A prostrating attack is one severe enough that you have to stop what you're doing and rest or lie down until it passes. The VA looks at how often these occur over several months, so a headache log that records frequency and severity is valuable evidence.

Can migraines be a secondary condition?

Yes. Migraines are very commonly claimed as secondary to tinnitus, a cervical-spine (neck) condition, a traumatic brain injury, or a service-connected mental-health condition. A secondary claim needs a medical nexus opinion linking the migraines to that primary condition.

Is there a higher rating than 50% for migraines?

50% is the maximum schedular evaluation for migraines under DC 8100. Veterans whose migraines, combined with other conditions, prevent them from holding steady work may separately be considered for TDIU. The VA makes the final decision.