VA Disability Rating for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Missouri (2026)
Quick Answer
The VA rates Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) at 0% | 10% | 40% | 70% | 100% depending on severity. At a 70% rating, you receive $1,808.45/month (veteran alone, 2026 rates). Missouri veterans file through the St. Louis VA Regional Office, with an average processing time of 79 days.
2026 VA Compensation Rates for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
| Rating | Veteran Alone | With Spouse | Annual (Alone) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42/mo | $180.42/mo | $2,165/yr |
| 40% | $795.84/mo | $882.84/mo | $9,550/yr |
| 70% | $1,808.45/mo | $1,961.45/mo | $21,701/yr |
| 100% | $3,938.58/mo | $4,158.17/mo | $47,263/yr |
How the VA Rates Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
The VA evaluates Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) under 38 CFR Part 4. Common causes include IED blast, vehicle accident, fall, combat. The rating examiner will review your medical records, service history, and a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam using the DBQ for TBI.
The BVA (Board of Veterans’ Appeals) grants Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) claims at a rate of approximately 55.1% nationally. If your initial claim is denied, an appeal to the BVA gives you a meaningful second chance.
Typical Rating Breakdown
- 10% — $180.42/month — Mild symptoms
- 40% — $795.84/month — Severe symptoms
- 70% — $1,808.45/month — Severe symptoms with major functional impairment
- 100% — $3,938.58/month — Total disability
Filing Your Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Claim in Missouri
In Missouri, VA disability claims are processed through the St. Louis VA Regional Office located at 400 S. 18th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103. You can reach them at 800-827-1000.
The average processing time for initial claims in Missouri is 79 days, compared to the national average of 71.3 days. The BVA grant rate for Missouri veterans is 30.7%.
Step-by-Step Filing Process
- Gather your service records — DD-214, service treatment records, and any in-service incident reports
- Get a nexus letter — A doctor’s statement connecting your Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) to military service is often the single most important piece of evidence
- Complete VA Form 21-526EZ — The standard application for disability compensation, filed online at VA.gov or in person at St. Louis VA Regional Office
- Attend your C&P exam — The VA will schedule a Compensation & Pension exam using the DBQ for TBI. Attend every exam and be thorough about your worst days
- Wait for a rating decision — Expected wait in Missouri: 79 days
- Appeal if denied — You have three appeal lanes: Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board of Veterans’ Appeals
Missouri State Benefits for Disabled Veterans
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Tax | 100% disabled veterans exempt from property taxes |
| State Income Tax | VA compensation is exempt from federal income tax; Missouri also exempts VA disability pay from state income tax |
| License Plate | Free disabled veteran plate |
| Hunting & Fishing | Free license for 100% disabled veterans |
| Education | Dependents of 100% P&T veterans eligible for free tuition |
VA Back Pay for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Missouri
If your Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) claim is approved, the VA pays back to your effective date — typically the date you filed your claim. With an average processing time of 79 days in Missouri, here is what to expect at a 70% rating:
| Wait Period | Monthly Rate | Gross Back Pay | Attorney Fee (25%, max $7,200) | Net Back Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 months | $1,808.45/mo | $10,851 | $2,713 | $8,138 |
| 9 months | $1,808.45/mo | $16,276 | $4,069 | $12,207 |
| 12 months | $1,808.45/mo | $21,701 | $5,425 | $16,276 |
| 18 months | $1,808.45/mo | $32,552 | $7,200 | $25,352 |
| 24 months | $1,808.45/mo | $43,403 | $7,200 | $36,203 |
| 30 months | $1,808.45/mo | $54,254 | $7,200 | $47,054 |
| 36 months | $1,808.45/mo | $65,104 | $7,200 | $57,904 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest VA rating for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
The maximum VA rating for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is 100%, paying $3,938.58/month for a veteran alone in 2026.
Can I get TDIU for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
Yes, if your Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) — alone or combined with other service-connected conditions — prevents you from maintaining substantially gainful employment, you may qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU), which pays at the 100% rate of $3,938.58/month.
How long does a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) claim take in Missouri?
The St. Louis VA Regional Office processes initial claims in an average of 79 days. If you appeal to the BVA, expect an additional 12-24 months. The BVA grants Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) claims at a rate of 55.1%.
Do I need a nexus letter for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
A nexus letter is required for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) unless it qualifies as a presumptive condition.
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