If you’re a veteran living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by military service, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. TBIs are among the most complex and misunderstood conditions in the VA disability system, and filing a successful claim often requires expert guidance.
That’s why many veterans seek VA claim help for TBI—to ensure their injuries are recognized, rated fairly, and compensated properly.
At Warrior Allegiance, we specialize in helping veterans get the benefits they’ve earned, with a strong focus on complex cases like TBIs. In this guide, we’ll break down where to get the help you need, why TBIs can be so difficult to claim, and how our expert team can guide you through the process step-by-step.
What Is a TBI, and Why Does It Matter in VA Disability Claims?
A traumatic brain injury is a disruption in brain function caused by an external force—such as a blast, blunt impact, or penetration injury—often sustained in combat or training environments.
Common causes for service-connected TBIs include:
- IED or roadside bomb explosions
- Vehicle crashes
- Falls during training or deployment
- Head trauma from hand-to-hand combat or blunt force
Even **mild TBIs (mTBI)**—commonly called concussions—can result in lasting symptoms that affect your memory, focus, sleep, mood, and quality of life.
Why Is It So Hard to Get VA Claim Approval for TBI?
Despite its prevalence, filing a VA disability claim for TBI can be frustrating. Here’s why:
- Misdiagnosis or Lack of Diagnosis
Many TBIs—especially those classified as “mild”—go unreported or undiagnosed during active duty. If the condition wasn’t officially documented, the VA may deny your claim.
- Overlapping Symptoms
TBI symptoms often mimic those of PTSD, depression, or anxiety. It’s common for the VA to misattribute cognitive or mood-related symptoms to psychological conditions, reducing the rating or denying the TBI altogether.
- Complex Rating System
The VA uses four “facets” to rate TBI: cognitive, emotional/behavioral, physical, and subjective symptoms. If these aren’t well-documented in your medical records or Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam, your rating could be much lower than what you deserve.
VA Claim Help for TBI: Where to Turn
If you’re struggling to get your TBI recognized or properly rated, here’s where to get the best VA claim help for TBI:
✅ 1. Warrior Allegiance: Expert Help from Veterans Who Understand
Warrior Allegiance is a veteran-led organization that helps service members and veterans file strong, accurate, and successful VA disability claims—especially for complex conditions like TBI.
Here’s how we help:
- Free Case Evaluation: We assess your service history and medical records to determine if you have a strong basis for a TBI claim.
- Claim Preparation and Submission: We help you gather evidence, write personal statements, and submit everything needed to support your TBI claim.
- Appeal Support: If you’ve been denied or underrated, we’ll help you file a supplemental claim or formal appeal to fight for the rating you deserve.
- Veteran Advocacy: We stand by your side and keep you informed throughout the process.
👉 Visit Warrior Allegiance to get personalized VA claim help for TBI today.
✅ 2. VA Medical Centers and Polytrauma Clinics
If you haven’t been officially diagnosed, getting an evaluation at a VA Polytrauma Center is a crucial first step. These facilities specialize in TBI assessment and treatment and can provide medical documentation to support your claim.
You can find Polytrauma Centers in cities like:
- Richmond, VA
- Palo Alto, CA
- Minneapolis, MN
- Tampa, FL
- San Antonio, TX
These evaluations often include neurological testing, mental health screenings, and physical exams—critical evidence for a successful claim.
✅ 3. Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs)
Groups like the DAV (Disabled American Veterans), American Legion, or VFW offer free claim assistance. However, they’re often overwhelmed and may not be able to dedicate time to complex TBI cases the way a specialized organization like Warrior Allegiance can.
✅ 4. Private Neurologists and Mental Health Providers
You can strengthen your claim by getting independent medical evaluations (IMEs) or nexus letters from non-VA doctors. These documents can support the service connection and clarify the severity of your symptoms.
Warrior Allegiance can help you identify what kind of additional evidence will have the most impact—and how to include it in your claim correctly.
What Symptoms of TBI Qualify for VA Compensation?
Your TBI does not need to be severe to qualify. Even a mild concussion, if it causes lasting problems, can be rated.
Common symptoms that can support a TBI claim include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Headaches or migraines
- Irritability or mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Depression or anxiety
Each of these can be tied to a VA disability rating, either under the TBI code or as secondary conditions (e.g., migraines secondary to TBI).
How the VA Rates TBI
The VA uses a three-tiered rating system for TBI claims:
- 0%: Symptoms are present but don’t interfere with daily life.
- 10%–40%: Moderate symptoms affecting specific areas (e.g., memory, judgment, mood).
- 70%–100%: Severe impairment requiring assistance with daily activities or full disability.
However, many veterans receive underrated claims due to vague exam results or incomplete documentation.
That’s why working with professionals like Warrior Allegiance—who know how to fully develop a TBI claim—can lead to better, faster outcomes.
Can You File a TBI Claim Years After Service?
Yes. There is no statute of limitations for filing a VA claim for service-connected TBI. Even if your injury occurred years or decades ago, you can still apply—especially if new symptoms have emerged or worsened.
You may even be eligible for back pay if your condition was previously misdiagnosed or underrated.
Denied Your TBI Claim? Here’s What to Do Next
If you’ve already filed and been denied—or received a low rating—you still have options:
🔄 Supplemental Claim
Submit new evidence or a medical opinion to strengthen your case.
👨⚖️ Higher-Level Review
Request a more senior VA reviewer to re-evaluate your claim.
⚖️ Board Appeal
Have your case reviewed by a Veterans Law Judge. Warrior Allegiance can represent you in this process.
Take the First Step Toward the Compensation You Deserve
You served your country with strength and sacrifice. Now it’s time to make sure that service is honored with the benefits you’ve earned—especially if you’re dealing with the effects of a traumatic brain injury.
Don’t let paperwork errors, VA bureaucracy, or unclear diagnoses stand in your way. Visit Warrior Allegiance to get started.