EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Bell's Palsy VA Disability Rating
DC 8207 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.124a | M21-1, Part IV.ii.3
OVERVIEW
Bell's palsy (seventh cranial nerve, DC 8207) causes facial drooping. Complete paralysis rates at 30%. Residuals include incomplete eye closure and difficulty eating.
RATING CRITERIA (5 LEVELS)
80% -- Complete paralysis (major nerve, dominant)
Complete paralysis of the affected nerve with total loss of function.
60% -- Severe incomplete paralysis
Severe incomplete paralysis with significant motor and sensory deficits.
40% -- Moderate incomplete paralysis
Moderate incomplete paralysis with measurable motor weakness and consistent sensory changes.
20% -- Mild incomplete paralysis
Mild incomplete paralysis with intermittent symptoms and minimal motor involvement.
10% -- Mild (lower extremity)
Mild incomplete paralysis with mild pain and numbness.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Service treatment records
-Current medical diagnosis and treatment records
-Buddy/lay statements
-Prescription history
-Employment impact documentation
-Any relevant diagnostic testing
C&P EXAM TIPS (5)
1.Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.
2.Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.
3.Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.
4.Mention all medications and their side effects.
5.Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026