Conditions / Skin
38 CFR 4.118, diagnostic code 7801 · checked 2026-10-20
VA rating for Deep scars (not head, face or neck)
VA rates Deep scars (not head, face or neck) under diagnostic code 7801 (Burn scar(s) or scar(s) due to other causes, not of the head, face or neck, that are associated with underlying soft tissue damage) at 4 levels from 10% to 40%. The lowest paid level, 10%, is worth $180.42 a month and the highest, 40%, $795.84 to a veteran alone at the rates effective December 1, 2025.
- 1Diagnostic code DC 7801
- 2Highest level 40% · $795.84
- 3Lowest paid level 10% · $180.42
Rating criteria for DC 7801
| Rating | What the schedule requires |
|---|---|
| 40% | Area or areas of 144 square inches (929 sq cm) or greater. |
| 30% | Area or areas of at least 72 square inches (465 sq cm) but less than 144 square inches (929 sq cm). |
| 20% | Area or areas of at least 12 square inches (77 sq cm) but less than 72 square inches (465 sq cm). |
| 10% | Area or areas of at least 6 square inches (39 sq cm) but less than 12 square inches (77 sq cm). |
Summarized from eCFR, 38 CFR 4.118 Schedule of ratings, skin, diagnostic code 7801, checked 2026-10-20. The regulation's own wording governs.
Notes in the schedule
- The body is divided into six zones: each extremity, the anterior trunk and the posterior trunk (split at the midaxillary line). Each affected zone may be rated separately and combined, or a single rating may be given for the summed area when that is higher.
- Superficial scars without soft tissue damage (7802) are rated 10% only when they cover 144 square inches (929 sq cm) or more.
What each level pays
| Level | Alone | With spouse | With tinnitus 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40% | $795.84 | $882.84 | 46 → 50% |
| 30% | $552.47 | $617.47 | 37 → 40% |
| 20% | $356.66 | $356.66 | 28 → 30% |
| 10% | $180.42 | $180.42 | 19 → 20% |
2 of the 4 compensable levels are 30% or higher, where dependents raise the payment; below that the rate is flat. The spread from the lowest paid level to the highest is $615.42 a month. The last column shows the combined rating if this condition is joined by a 10% tinnitus rating.
How this rating fits a claim
This code reaches 40% or more, the level one disability needs under 38 CFR 4.16(a) when several disabilities together reach 70% for unemployability. A rating under DC 7801 is combined with every other rating by Table I, never added; the calculator shows the result with your other ratings and dependents.
The rating is set from the evidence at the time of the decision, usually including a VA examination. If the condition has worsened since, VA accepts a claim for an increase on VA Form 21-526EZ; see how to request an increase.
Related conditions
- Scars of the head, face or neck (DC 7800)
- Painful or unstable scars (DC 7804)
- Eczema (dermatitis) (DC 7806)
Pay at the top level: 40% VA pay. At the lowest paid level: 10% VA pay.
Rating Ledger is not part of VA and does not file or decide claims. Amounts are VA's published monthly rates effective December 1, 2025 for a veteran, before any deduction or special monthly compensation; ratings follow 38 CFR 4.25 and 38 CFR 4.26 and 38 CFR 4.118, diagnostic code 7801. Last checked 2026-10-20. Only a VA rating decision sets a rating or a payment. See the methodology.