Mild TBI Residuals (Concussion Sequelae)

DC 8045Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8045

Lingering symptoms from a mild traumatic brain injury or concussion, such as headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and sensitivity to light or noise. Even a "mild" TBI can cause lasting problems. The VA rates mild TBI residuals under the TBI residuals table, evaluating ten facets of brain function and assigning a rating based on the highest level of impairment.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 8045

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8045. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have total impairment from your TBI residuals. You cannot care for yourself, are persistently disoriented, or require constant supervision.

What the VA looks for

Total impairment on at least one TBI evaluation facet
Inability to perform activities of daily living
Persistent disorientation to time, place, or person
Requires constant supervision or institutional care

Common Pitfalls

⚠Assuming a "mild" TBI means you cannot get a high rating — the VA rates residuals based on current impairment, not the initial severity of the injury. Even mild TBIs can produce lasting moderate or severe symptoms.
⚠Not getting comprehensive neuropsychological testing — a standard C&P exam may miss subtle cognitive deficits. Neuropsych testing is the gold standard for documenting memory, attention, and executive function problems.
⚠Not filing separately for headaches, tinnitus, dizziness, and mental health conditions that resulted from the TBI — each residual can be rated independently in addition to the TBI rating.
⚠Not documenting the in-service concussive event — blast exposure, falls, vehicle accidents, and sports injuries during service should be documented through service records, incident reports, or buddy statements.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
DBQ Headaches (including Migraines)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Mild TBI Residuals (Concussion Sequelae)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8045

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have total impairment from your TBI residuals. You cannot care for yourself, are persistently disoriented, or require constant supervision.

What the VA looks for

Total impairment on at least one TBI evaluation facet
Inability to perform activities of daily living
Persistent disorientation to time, place, or person
Requires constant supervision or institutional care

Common Pitfalls

⚠Assuming a "mild" TBI means you cannot get a high rating — the VA rates residuals based on current impairment, not the initial severity of the injury. Even mild TBIs can produce lasting moderate or severe symptoms.

⚠Not getting comprehensive neuropsychological testing — a standard C&P exam may miss subtle cognitive deficits. Neuropsych testing is the gold standard for documenting memory, attention, and executive function problems.

⚠Not filing separately for headaches, tinnitus, dizziness, and mental health conditions that resulted from the TBI — each residual can be rated independently in addition to the TBI rating.

⚠Not documenting the in-service concussive event — blast exposure, falls, vehicle accidents, and sports injuries during service should be documented through service records, incident reports, or buddy statements.