Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 6260 in the Ears category. Maximum rating: 10%.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Recurrent tinnitus (maximum schedular rating) |
Important Notes
Maximum schedular rating is 10%, regardless of whether tinnitus is unilateral or bilateral. Only one 10% rating is assigned even if tinnitus is present in both ears. Per Smith v. Nicholson (2005), a veteran cannot receive separate 10% ratings for each ear. Very commonly service-connected.
Common Primary Conditions
This condition is often secondary to: 6100
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 6260 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.
Quick Links
Related Conditions
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