Tinnitus VA Disability Rating

VA Rating Tiers

How the VA Evaluates Tinnitus

Veteran must consistently report symptoms like ringing or buzzing in one or both ears. No audiological test is required.

Veterans service-connected count from the VBA Annual Benefits Report (FY2025), as of September 30, 2025. Approval outlook and typical rating are Vetrify editorial estimates — not official VA statistics.

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Tinnitus. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

• Hearing Loss

  Often occurs together due to noise exposure

• Sleep Disturbances

  Ringing disrupts rest

• Anxiety

  Chronic ringing can elevate stress levels

Common Among These Military Jobs

Military occupational specialties (MOS) where Tinnitus is frequently claimed.

Common questions about Tinnitus

Is Tinnitus a VA-rated disability?

Yes. The VA rates Tinnitus under VASRD diagnostic code 6260 (Auditory and Vestibular). Tinnitus means you hear ringing, buzzing, or hissing in your ears even when there’s no sound.

What VA disability rating can I get for Tinnitus?

Possible VA ratings for Tinnitus are 10%. Examples: 10%: Ringing or buzzing in the ears that keeps coming back..

What's the typical VA rating awarded for Tinnitus?

Vetrify estimates the typical rating awarded for Tinnitus at around 10%, based on VA claims data and the rating schedule. Per the VBA Annual Benefits Report (FY2025), 3,583,295 veterans were receiving VA compensation for Tinnitus as of September 30, 2025. Estimated approval outlook: Very high – commonly approved based…

What evidence helps prove Tinnitus for VA disability?

Strong evidence for a Tinnitus claim includes: Consistent reports of tinnitus in VA exams; History of military noise exposure (e.g., flight line, artillery); C&P exam confirmation; Service records confirming hazardous noise duty.

What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Tinnitus?

Common pitfalls when filing for Tinnitus: Not mentioning tinnitus at the C&P exam; Lack of service noise exposure documentation; Not submitting a buddy statement if medical record is blank.

What conditions are commonly secondary to Tinnitus?

Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Tinnitus include: Hearing Loss, Sleep Disturbances, Anxiety. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Official sources

1. 38 CFR § 4.87 — Schedule of ratings — diseases of the ear (Diagnostic Code 6260)
2. VBA Annual Benefits Report (FY2025) — veterans service-connected count, as of September 30, 2025

Rating criteria on this page are an educational summary of the cited regulation — the eCFR text is authoritative. See how Vetrify derives its numbers.