Rating guide · Neurological
Migraines: It Comes Down to Counting
The VA rates migraines on how often you have attacks that knock you flat. Nobody will see one during a 30-minute exam, so your own records do the convincing.
- Exact rating criteria
- What counts as prostrating
- Building a headache log
- Connection routes
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Migraine Rating Criteria
Other chronic headache conditions are often rated by analogy under these criteria. 2026 pay for a veteran with no dependents.
Prostrating vs. Just Painful
A prostrating attack is one that forces you to stop what you’re doing and lie down until it passes. If you can keep working through it, it usually won’t count toward the rating.
- About one every two months over the last several months supports 10%.
- About one a month supports 30%.
- Very frequent, completely prostrating, prolonged attacks causing severe economic inadaptability support 50%. That doesn’t require being unemployed; heavy missed work or cut hours can qualify.
Build a Headache Log That Holds Up
For each attack, write down the date, how long it lasted, what you had to stop doing, whether you had to lie down in a dark room, and any work you missed. Keep it going for several months, and share it with your doctor so it’s reflected in your treatment notes.
A statement from a spouse or coworker who has seen you through an attack adds weight.
How Migraines Get Connected to Service
- Headaches that began or were treated during service
- After a traumatic brain injury from blasts, accidents or falls
- Secondary to PTSD, depression or anxiety
- Secondary to a neck condition or to tinnitus
Migraine VA Rating: Common Questions
How many prostrating migraines do I need for 30%?
On average, about one a month over the last several months. About one every two months supports 10%.
Can I get 50% if I still have a job?
Yes. Severe economic inadaptability can be shown through frequent missed work, leaving early or reduced hours. It doesn’t require being unemployed.
What if my headaches aren’t technically migraines?
Other headache conditions are often rated by analogy under the migraine criteria, with the same focus on prostrating attacks.
What’s the best evidence for migraines?
A consistent headache log kept over several months, treatment records that reflect it, and statements from people who have seen your attacks.
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