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Home / VA Ratings A–Z / Tinnitus

VA Rating for Tinnitus

DC 6260 Max schedular: 10% Category: Respiratory & ENT Updated for 2026 rates
The Official Criteria

Tinnitus Rating Chart

Criteria from 38 CFR Part 4 (DC 6260). Pay shown is the 2026 monthly rate for a veteran alone at that percentage by itself.

RatingWhat qualifies2026 monthly pay*
10%Recurrent tinnitus — a single 10% rating whether one or both ears are affected.$180.42

*Rate for that single rating with no dependents. Your combined rating and household may differ — run your exact numbers in our calculator.

How the VA Rates Tinnitus

Tinnitus is subjective — no test can disprove ringing in your ears — making it the most commonly service-connected condition in the VA system. The 10% is modest, but tinnitus anchors service connection for secondary claims: sleep disturbance, migraines, and mental health conditions linked to constant ringing.

Evidence That Wins This Claim

  • Document noise exposure: MOS, weapons, flight lines, engine rooms.
  • Report it consistently — onset in service and continuity since.
  • Use tinnitus as the service-connected base for secondary mental health or sleep claims where supported.

Common Questions

Can I get more than 10% for tinnitus?

No — the schedule caps recurrent tinnitus at a single 10% regardless of severity or whether both ears ring. Additional compensation comes through related secondary conditions.

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