EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Burn Scar Contracture VA Disability Rating
DC 7801 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.118 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.11
OVERVIEW
Burn scar contractures are rated under DC 7801 for deep nonlinear scars, plus any limitation of motion of the affected joint. Each affected area rated separately. Common in combat and vehicle-related burns.
RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)
60% -- >40% of body or exposed areas, or constant systemic therapy
More than 40% of body/exposed areas, or constant/near-constant systemic therapy in past 12 months.
30% -- 20-40% of body or systemic therapy 6+ weeks
20-40% of body/exposed areas, or systemic therapy 6+ weeks but not constant.
10% -- 5-20% of body
5-20% of body/exposed areas, or intermittent systemic therapy <6 weeks.
0% -- <5% of body
Less than 5% of body, topical therapy only.
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