Brain, vessels, hemorrhage from (DC 8009)

Body system: Neurological Conditions and Convulsive DisordersRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.124a

This diagnostic code covers brain hemorrhages (bleeding in the brain) from blood vessel problems like aneurysms or strokes. The VA gives you a temporary 100% rating for the first 6 months after the hemorrhage while you recover. After that 6-month period, they'll rate you based on whatever ongoing problems you have from the brain bleed, with a minimum 10% rating for life.

Rating levels

  • 100% — If you have bleeding from blood vessels in your brain, the VA will evaluate your condition using the rating criteria for other vascular (blood vessel) problems for a period of 6 months. During this 6-month evaluation period, they will assess how the brain hemorrhage affects your daily functioning and assign a rating based on those specific vascular condition guidelines.
  • 10% — After you've recovered from a brain hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain), you'll receive this as the minimum disability rating for any lasting effects or symptoms that remain. The VA will evaluate whatever residual problems you still have - such as headaches, memory issues, balance problems, or other neurological symptoms - and rate those ongoing effects, but this serves as the floor rating you'll get.

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.