Migraines affect millions of Veterans – often stemming from or worsened by the physical and psychological stresses of military service. If you’re living with migraine headaches that interfere with daily functioning or employment, understanding how the VA disability ratings for migraines are calculated is a vital step in securing the compensation you’ve earned.
In this guide, you’ll learn how the VA assigns migraine ratings, what qualifies as a prostrating attack, how to file a strong claim, and what symptoms justify receiving the highest possible VA rating for migraines.
What Are VA Disability Ratings for Migraines?
The Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes migraines as a service-connectable disability under the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD). Migraines are rated based on the frequency, severity, and economic impact of “prostrating attacks” – episodes that are so debilitating they force you to stop all activity and rest.
Common service-related causes of migraines include:
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- PTSD and anxiety disorders
- Sleep disturbances or shift work
- Exposure to loud noises or blast trauma
- Neck or spine injuries
These conditions may lead to direct or secondary service connections for migraine claims.
VA Disability Ratings for Migraines: How Ratings Are Assigned
The VA uses the following schedule to assign VA disability ratings for migraines:
| Rating | Criteria |
| 0% | Less frequent or mild attacks |
| 10% | Prostrating attacks averaging one every two months over the last several months |
| 30% | Prostrating attacks averaging once a month |
| 50% | Very frequent, completely prostrating and prolonged attacks that cause severe economic inadaptability |
A 50% VA rating for migraines is the maximum rating under the current schedule. However, Veterans can qualify for additional compensation for secondary conditions (e.g., depression, insomnia, anxiety) related to migraines.
How to File a VA Disability Claim for Migraines
To get started:
- File a claim through VA.gov, by mail (VA Form 21-526EZ), or in person.
- Include all medical records showing diagnosis and treatment.
- Identify how your migraines relate to your military service (direct, secondary, or presumptive).
If filed within one year of discharge, your effective date may backdate to the day after separation – resulting in additional retroactive compensation.
Establishing Service Connection for Migraine Headaches
To qualify for a VA rating for migraines, your claim must meet the following elements:
- Current diagnosis of migraines from a medical professional
- In-service event (e.g., TBI, combat stress, sleep disruption)
- Medical nexus linking your migraine condition to military service
There are three main types of service connection:
- Direct: Migraines began during or shortly after service
- Secondary: Caused or worsened by another service-connected condition (e.g., PTSD, tinnitus)
- Presumptive: Less common for migraines, but may apply in future legislation for Gulf War Veterans
Evidence Needed to Support Your Claim
The more detailed and consistent your documentation, the stronger your claim. Include:
- Military medical records (including TBI evaluations, sleep studies, or combat exposure)
- Civilian and VA medical treatment records
- Headache or migraine diary tracking attack frequency, duration, severity, and recovery time
- Lay statements from family, coworkers, or supervisors describing the effects of your migraines
- Employment records showing missed work or accommodations
Migraine C&P Exam: What to Expect
The Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is a required step for most migraine claims. During the exam:
- You’ll be asked about frequency, severity, and impact of attacks
- Be honest and describe your worst days, not just your average experience
- Bring your headache log and medication list
- You may be evaluated for secondary effects like depression, anxiety, or fatigue
If you disagree with the C&P exam findings, you can submit additional evidence or request a Higher-Level Review or Board Appeal.
Tips to Accurately Document Your Migraines for VA Disability
- Keep a detailed migraine diary with attack dates, symptoms, duration, and resulting impact (e.g., missed work, ER visits)
- Use descriptive language that reflects the intensity of your symptoms. Terms like “prostrating” are recognized by the VA but should reflect your actual experience.
- Ensure medical providers document episodes accurately using VA-aligned language
- Mention emergency room visits, as they reinforce the severity of your condition
- Track and submit secondary conditions related to your migraines, such as:
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- Sleep disorders
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- Vision issues
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- Gastrointestinal distress
FAQs About VA Migraine Ratings
What is a prostrating attack?
A migraine so debilitating you must stop all activity, lie down, and rest. Symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, and light/sound sensitivity.
Can I get more than a 50% VA rating for migraines?
Not directly. But you may qualify for TDIU (Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability) or additional ratings for related conditions.
How can I prove how often I get migraines?
Track your episodes in a headache diary, get consistent treatment, and submit lay statements and employment records.
Are migraines a secondary condition to PTSD or TBI?
Yes. Migraines are often secondary to PTSD, TBI, tinnitus, or neck/spinal conditions.
What if my migraines vary in frequency?
The VA looks at average frequency over time. Keep consistent logs to show patterns.
Take Action Today
If you suffer from migraines linked to your military service, you may be entitled to monthly, tax-free VA compensation. The key is demonstrating frequency, severity, and economic impact through detailed evidence and proper documentation.
Filing a VA disability claim for migraines can feel overwhelming – from gathering medical evidence and documenting symptoms to navigating exams and appeals. It’s a lot to manage, especially when you’re already dealing with the condition itself. That’s why you don’t have to do it alone. Veteran Ratings can connect you with an expert consult who understands the process and ensures you never miss a beat.
