★ Cardiovascular / Neurological
Stroke (CVA) Residuals VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8008
Overview
Initial post-stroke rating: 100% for 6 months under DC 8008.
After 6 months, the rating is based on identifiable residuals, each rated separately under the appropriate diagnostic code.
Common residuals: hemiplegia/hemiparesis, aphasia, cognitive impairment, dysphagia.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Secondary to service-connected hypertension, diabetes, or PTSD-related cardiovascular stress is the most common path.
- Direct: stroke during active service.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8008
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | For 6 months following the cerebrovascular accident. |
| 10% min. | Minimum after 6 months; residuals rated under appropriate DCs (e.g., paralysis, speech, cognition). |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Hospital admission records.
- MRI/CT imaging.
- Neurology and rehab notes.
- Functional status evaluations.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Stroke (CVA) Residuals:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Stroke (CVA) Residuals 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.