What are the 2026 VA disability compensation rates?

The 2026 VA disability rates (effective December 1, 2025) include a 2.8% COLA increase. Rates range from $175.03/month at 10% to $3,938.58/month at 100%. Veterans rated 30% and above receive additional compensation for dependents.

How does VA math work for combined ratings?

VA uses a "whole person" method under 38 C.F.R. 4.25. Each rating is applied to remaining efficiency, not added. Example: 50% + 30% = 50% + (30% of remaining 50%) = 50% + 15% = 65%, rounded to 70%.

What is a secondary service-connected condition?

Under 38 C.F.R. 3.310, a secondary condition is caused or aggravated by an already service-connected disability. Common examples: PTSD causing sleep apnea, back pain causing radiculopathy, or diabetes causing peripheral neuropathy.

What are the VA rating percentages for TMJ?

TMJ (DC 9905) is rated at 40%, 30%, 20%, 10% under 38 C.F.R. § 4.150. Cannot open mouth more than 10 millimeters between upper and lower front teeth.

What secondary conditions are linked to TMJ?

Common secondary conditions for TMJ include [object Object], [object Object], [object Object]. Secondary service connection is established under 38 C.F.R. 3.310 when a condition is caused or aggravated by an already service-connected disability.

What happens during a C&P exam for TMJ?

The examiner measures inter-incisal distance in millimeters. Do NOT force your jaw open wider than comfortable. Report clicking, popping, locking, and pain with chewing. These support the diagnosis even if ROM is near normal.

EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.

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TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) VA Disability Rating

DC 9905 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.150 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.5

OVERVIEW

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ/TMD) is rated under DC 9905 at 38 C.F.R. § 4.150 based on limitation of inter-incisal range of motion (how far you can open your mouth) and lateral excursion (side-to-side jaw movement). TMJ is common among veterans who experienced blast exposure (IED, artillery), dental trauma, or sustained clenching/grinding from stress and PTSD. TMJ can also be secondary to PTSD (bruxism from hyperarousal) or TBI (blast-related jaw damage).

RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)

40% -- Inter-incisal range 0-10mm

Cannot open mouth more than 10 millimeters between upper and lower front teeth.

30% -- Inter-incisal range 11-20mm

Mouth opening limited to 11-20 millimeters.

20% -- Inter-incisal range 21-30mm

Mouth opening limited to 21-30 millimeters.

10% -- Inter-incisal range 31-40mm OR lateral excursion 0-4mm

Mouth opening 31-40mm, OR lateral jaw movement limited to 0-4 millimeters.

KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER

-Dental records documenting TMJ diagnosis, jaw clicking, or limited opening

-Service records showing blast exposure, dental trauma, or jaw injury

-Documentation of bruxism (teeth grinding) linked to PTSD or stress

-X-ray or MRI showing TMJ disc displacement, arthritis, or structural damage

-Dental guard or night guard prescription history

SECONDARY CONDITIONS (3 MAPPED)

MigrainesSTRONG

DC 8100

TMJ dysfunction is a well-documented trigger for chronic headaches and migraines.

TinnitusMODERATE

DC 6260

TMJ can cause or worsen tinnitus through shared nerve pathways and muscle tension affecting the ear.

Depression / AnxietyMODERATE

DC 9434/9413

Chronic jaw pain, difficulty eating, and facial pain cause psychological conditions.

C&P EXAM TIPS (4)

1.The examiner measures inter-incisal distance in millimeters. Do NOT force your jaw open wider than comfortable.

2.Report clicking, popping, locking, and pain with chewing. These support the diagnosis even if ROM is near normal.

3.If your TMJ is secondary to PTSD (grinding teeth from stress/nightmares), document the bruxism connection.

4.If blast-exposed, TMJ may also be secondary to TBI. Document any blast exposure history.

DOLLAR IMPACT

TMJ at 20% ($345/mo) plus secondary migraines at 30-50% plus tinnitus at 10% can produce a combined rating of 50-60%. TMJ secondary to PTSD is a commonly missed secondary claim.

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RELATED CONDITION GUIDES

Migraines Tinnitus Depression / Anxiety All 347 conditions >

EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026