Reference: 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8007-8009
The published Stroke Residuals schedule uses specific diagnostic codes.
Under 38 CFR 4.124a, Diagnostic Codes 8007, 8008, and 8009, VA rates brain vessel conditions (such as embolism, thrombosis, or hemorrhage/stroke) at 100 percent for the first 6 months. Thereafter, VA evaluates the specific residuals (e.g., paralysis or speech loss) under their respective diagnostic codes, with a minimum rating of 10 percent.
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Overview
Under 38 CFR 4.124a, Diagnostic Codes 8007, 8008, and 8009, VA rates brain vessel conditions (such as embolism, thrombosis, or hemorrhage/stroke) at 100 percent for the first 6 months. Thereafter, VA evaluates the specific residuals (e.g., paralysis or speech loss) under their respective diagnostic codes, with a minimum rating of 10 percent.
Regulatory authority: 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8007-8009
This guide is educational only. RatingScope does not diagnose Stroke, cannot determine service connection, and does not predict a VA decision. Residuals are rated on a case-by-case basis based on the specific bodily functions impaired.
Percentage Guides
Select a pathway to see what the published criteria ask about, what records may clarify it, and what should not be assumed.
Initial 6 months following the stroke.
Based on specific impairments, with a minimum of 10%.
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Use these short guides to connect published terms with the records and observations that may clarify them.
A stroke (cerebrovascular accident) is evaluated on the permanent, stabilized neurological residuals that persist after the acute recovery phase.
Records to review: Neurology and physical medicine progress notes documenting stabilized functional status; Speech therapy and neuropsychological testing documenting communication and cognitive deficits; Physical therapy range-of-motion and muscle strength assessments of affected limbs.
Evidence
A confirmed medical diagnosis of stroke, embolism, thrombosis, or hemorrhage of brain vessels.
A diagnosis alone does not identify which percentage pathway applies.
Detailed records of any lasting impairments (residuals) present after 6 months.
A diagnosis alone does not identify which percentage pathway applies.
The public DBQ shows the kinds of findings an examiner may record. A veteran may review it, or may share it with a private clinician, before a C&P exam. RatingScope does not tell any person what to submit.
Terminology
Common Questions
Ready when you are
RatingScope compares Stroke Residuals records using the published criteria in the Neurological Diseases assessment. Compare your documented records against the criteria.
Informational guidance only. RatingScope does not predict, decide, or guarantee VA outcomes.
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Secondary conditions
No commonly documented secondary connections are tracked for Stroke Residuals yet.
In-depth analysis of DBQ forms, medical evidence thresholds, and rating schedules for Stroke Residuals.
Understand how the VA distinguishes between paralysis (85xx), neuritis (86xx), and neuralgia (87xx) in 38 CFR 4.124a and how rating ceilings apply.
38 CFR 3.350(a)(2)(i) says loss of use of a hand or foot is held to exist when no effective function remains beyond what a stump with prosthesis serves.
Keep going
Compare a percentage level and combined-rating math, or review evidence context.
Understand the whole-person method, final rounding, and bilateral limits, then calculate how percentages combine.
Open VA Math guideUnderstand common evidence categories and what they can clarify without treating them as a checklist.
Open Evidence Center