★ Neurological
Epilepsy VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Codes 8910 (grand mal) / 8911 (petit mal)
Overview
Major (grand mal) and minor (petit mal) seizures use the same rating schedule (DC 8911 cross-references DC 8910).
Seizure frequency is averaged over the prior year.
Seizures must be witnessed and reported by physician for rating purposes.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: documented in-service onset.
- Secondary to a service-connected TBI.
- Presumptive within 1 year of separation for organic disease of the nervous system under § 3.309(a).
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Codes 8910 (grand mal) / 8911 (petit mal)
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Confirmed diagnosis with continuous medication required for control. |
| 20% | At least 1 major seizure in past 2 years OR 2 minor seizures in past 6 months. |
| 40% | At least 1 major seizure in past 6 months OR 5–8 minor seizures weekly. |
| 60% | At least 1 major seizure in past 4 months OR 9–10 minor seizures weekly. |
| 80% | At least 1 major seizure in past 3 months OR 12 minor seizures weekly. |
| 100% | More than 1 major seizure monthly averaged over past year. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Neurologist notes.
- EEG and MRI results.
- Seizure log.
- Witness statements (spouse, family) describing events.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Epilepsy:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Epilepsy claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.