VA Disability Rating for Tinnitus, recurrent (DC 6260)

Body system: EarRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.87DBQ: DBQ AUDIO Hearing Loss and Tinnitus

Tinnitus is that persistent ringing, buzzing, whistling, or humming sound in your ears when there's no actual noise around you. The VA rates recurrent tinnitus at a flat 10% disability rating - there's no higher or lower percentage available, regardless of how severe your symptoms are. This 10% rating acknowledges that tinnitus can be disruptive to your daily life and sleep, but the VA doesn't distinguish between mild and severe cases in their rating system.

Rating levels

  • 10% — You have ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other phantom sounds in one or both ears that comes and goes repeatedly over time. The tinnitus doesn't have to be constant, but it must be a recurring problem that keeps coming back rather than just happening once or twice.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.