VA Disability Rating for Scar, unstable or painful (DC 7804)
Body system: SkinRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.118DBQ: DBQ Scars/Disfigurement
This diagnostic code covers scars that are either unstable (break down, crack, or reopen easily) or painful, typically from service-connected injuries, surgeries, or conditions. The VA rates these scars based on how many you have: 10% for one or two scars, 20% for three or four scars, and 30% for five or more scars. The key is that your scars must actually cause problems - they can't just be cosmetic marks that don't bother you.
Rating levels
30% — You have five or more scars that are unstable or painful. An unstable scar is one that, for any reason, frequently loses its covering of skin; a painful scar is one that hurts. Either quality counts, and nothing more is required: the rating does not depend on the scars limiting your activities.
20% — You have three or four scars that are unstable or painful. An unstable scar is one that, for any reason, frequently loses its covering of skin; a painful scar is one that hurts. Either quality counts, and nothing more is required: the rating does not depend on the scars limiting your activities.
10% — You can qualify for this rating if you have one or two scars that cause you ongoing problems. The scars must be either unstable (meaning they break open, crack, or don't heal properly) or painful (causing regular discomfort, tenderness, or pain when touched or during movement).
Note — An unstable scar is one that keeps losing its covering of skin, for any reason.
Note — If one or more of your scars is both unstable and painful, 10% is added to the rating that the number of unstable or painful scars gives you.
Note — A scar rated under DC 7800, 7801, 7802 or 7805 can also be rated here, under DC 7804, when it is unstable or painful.
Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.
