★ Neurological
Trigeminal Neuralgia VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8205
Overview
DC 8205 rates the fifth cranial nerve.
Severity considers pain frequency, response to medication (carbamazepine, etc.), and surgical history (microvascular decompression).
Bilateral trigeminal neuralgia may justify the bilateral factor.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: in-service onset or facial trauma.
- Secondary to TBI or dental procedures.
- Aggravation: pre-existing condition worsened by service.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8205
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Moderate. |
| 30% | Severe. |
| 50% | Complete. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Neurologist or ENT notes.
- MRI ruling out structural causes.
- Medication and treatment response records.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Trigeminal Neuralgia:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Trigeminal Neuralgia 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.