Reference: 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8207

What is the VA rating for Bells Palsy?

The published Bells Palsy schedule uses specific diagnostic codes.

Condition Overview & Clinical Scope

Under 38 CFR 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8207 (Seventh (facial) cranial nerve), VA rates Bell's Palsy (facial nerve paralysis) based on the severity of the paralysis, ranging from 10 percent for moderate incomplete paralysis to 30 percent for complete paralysis.

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Overview

About this condition

Under 38 CFR 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8207 (Seventh (facial) cranial nerve), VA rates Bell's Palsy (facial nerve paralysis) based on the severity of the paralysis, ranging from 10 percent for moderate incomplete paralysis to 30 percent for complete paralysis.

Regulatory authority: 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8207

This guide is educational only. RatingScope does not diagnose Bell's Palsy, cannot determine service connection, and does not predict a VA decision.

Percentage Guides

Understanding Your Percentage

Select a pathway to see what the published criteria ask about, what records may clarify it, and what should not be assumed.

30%

Highest listed pathway

Complete paralysis.

Review CFR criteria, examples, and evidence
Official CFR language
Complete
Qualification explanation
This level applies when there is complete paralysis of the facial nerve.
Medical evidence
Neurological evaluation confirming complete facial nerve paralysis

20%

Next: 30% requires complete paralysis.

Severe incomplete paralysis.

Review CFR criteria, examples, and evidence
Official CFR language
Incomplete, severe
Qualification explanation
This level applies when paralysis of the facial nerve is incomplete but severe.
Medical evidence
Neurological evaluation confirming severe incomplete facial nerve paralysis

10%

Next: 20% requires severe incomplete paralysis.

Moderate incomplete paralysis.

Review CFR criteria, examples, and evidence
Official CFR language
Incomplete, moderate
Qualification explanation
This level applies when paralysis of the facial nerve is incomplete and moderate.
Medical evidence
Neurological evaluation confirming moderate incomplete facial nerve paralysis

Evidence

Evidence that may clarify the published criteria

Medical Evidence 1

A confirmed medical diagnosis of Bell's Palsy or facial nerve paralysis.

A diagnosis alone does not identify which percentage pathway applies.

Medical Evidence 2

Records from a neurologist or examiner detailing the severity of the paralysis (complete, severe incomplete, or moderate incomplete).

A diagnosis alone does not identify which percentage pathway applies.

Official VA Forms & DBQs

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Secondary conditions

Conditions commonly connected to Bells Palsy

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