Stroke (CVA) Residuals
DC 8008 §4.124a Neurological ICD-10: I63.9 DirectPresumptive Chronic disease 1-year (§3.309)
100% for 6 months post-event, then rated on residuals (weakness, speech, cognitive, etc.).
VA rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | For first 6 months following stroke |
| 10% | Minimum rating after 6 months; rated on residuals (limitation of motion, paralysis, aphasia, cognitive deficits) |
Filing this claim
If you have qualifying service for the Chronic disease 1-year (§3.309) presumption, you don't need a nexus letter — file as a primary claim with proof of qualifying service and your current diagnosis. Use the letter generators to draft your nexus letter and Statement in Support of Claim.
Step by step
- File an Intent to File (Form 21-0966) to lock your effective date.
- Confirm you have a current medical diagnosis in a medical record.
- Gather proof of qualifying service (DD-214, deployment records, etc.) — no nexus letter needed.
- Write a Statement in Support of Claim (21-4138).
- If applicable, gather buddy statements (21-10210).
- File the formal 21-526EZ.
Source: 38 CFR §4.124a. For exact regulatory language, consult eCFR Title 38. This is general education — for your specific case, consult a VA-accredited representative.