Understanding Migraine VA Rating Percentages

When it comes to disabling conditions, the VA assigns an illness or injury a rating between 0 and 100, with a 100 representing total disability. While the VA pays out benefits based on debilitating migraines, the highest migraine VA rating available for this condition on its own is 50%.

The good news is there are options that allow you to increase your rating and obtain the full benefits you deserve. At Gang & Associates, we are prepared to answer your questions and help you get the most out of your claim. Reach out right away to learn more.

How the VA Rates Migraines

Although the rating system goes up to 100 in general, there is a maximum rating on certain conditions like migraines. This condition is capped at a rating of 50 percent outside of a few limited exceptions.

The VA looks for specific symptoms that distinguish a migraine from other, milder types of headaches. A successful claim will typically include symptoms like throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, or nausea.

0% Rating

A zero percent rating for a migraine claim means that the veteran is not entitled to benefits due to their condition. This usually means that a person has some migraine symptoms, but this condition has a minimum impact on their day-to-day life. A veteran with a zero rating may develop headaches from time to time, but there is no need for regular medication. The disruption of work and other activities is also minimal.

10% Rating

The VA will award a 10 percent rating on a migraine diagnosis when it leaves a veteran with noticeable discomfort but the symptoms are uncommon. This usually means episodes that occur less frequently than once per month. Medication may be necessary during periods when the headaches are disruptive.

30% Rating

With a 30 percent rating, the symptoms are more frequent. The VA generally awards this rating in cases where a person suffers from a debilitating migraine more than once per month. These regular episodes require a veteran to take time off of work to rest. There is often a need for stronger medication to control the pain.

50% Rating

A 50 percent rating is reserved for the most disruptive of migraines. At this level, they are both frequent and debilitating, which severely limits the amount of work a person can perform. Often, someone living with this condition requires prolonged periods of rest and powerful medication to deal with the pain. This can lead to major life disruptions, including on the job.

Increasing Your Migraine VA Rating Beyond 50%

Having a rating of 50% for your migraine is the highest you can reach in most cases. However, there are some exceptions that could see your rating increased or that might provide you with the maximum available benefits.

Secondary Claims

One of the most common ways to increase your disability rating above 50 percent is by providing evidence that it is a secondary condition that stems from another health issue. For example, you could make the case that your migraines are secondary to PTSD.

When you are living with two or more disabling conditions, you have the opportunity to have each of them rated individually. The VA will then caculate a combined rating, which is more complex than simply adding the two numbers together. Instead, the VA relies on calculations that generally lead to a final rating that is more than what either individual disability was rated at. That means you could ultimately have a rating above 50% so long as you are living with some other condition as well.

Total Disability Individual Unemployability Benefits

Another option is Total Disability Individual Unemployability benefits—or TDIU. This program is an opportunity for some veterans to receive the maximum amount of disability benefits through the VA, even though their condition is not rated at 100 percent.

The VA acknowledges that some conditions can make it impossible for a veteran to maintain gainful employment, even when their rating is less than 100 percent. With TDIU, you could be entitled to the maximum amount of disability payments if you can show your migraines are so severe that they make it impossible to hold down a job.

Establishing a Service-Related Connection

It is not enough for a veteran to live with migraines or other debilitating headaches following their service. In order for them to qualify, there must be a service connection between an event during their time in the military and their diagnosis of migraine headaches. Some of the most common examples include exposure to burn pits, loud explosions, or chemical agents. Your migraine might also be a secondary service-related disability stemming from conditions like depression or PTSD.

What If My Claim is Denied?

There is no guarantee that your VA claim will be accepted. The good news is that there is a process for appealing a denial that is often successful. What’s more, you also have the right to file an appeal if you disagree with your migraine VA rating. 

Our attorneys can help you from the moment you are formally notified of your denied claim. We can work to establish the connection between your migraines and your service while also handling every other aspect of your appeal.

Call Today to Better Understand Your Migraine VA Rating

If you are living with migraines and believe they are related to your military service, now is the time to speak with a lawyer. The denial of your VA benefits claim is frustrating, but it is also not the final word in your case. You have a chance to get the outcome you deserve, and the team at Gang & Associates is ready to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more.