Tinnitus, recurrent
Tinnitus, recurrent is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6260, from 10% to 10% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 10% rating requires: Tinnitus, recurrent. Most claims establish the 10% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 6260 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 10%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.87
- Body system
- Auditory System
- Secondary conditions
- 5
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%
Part 4 rating schedule
Mapped in our database
What are the VA rating criteria for Tinnitus, recurrent?
Tinnitus, recurrent
Note: Per 38 CFR § 4.87, DC 6260, tinnitus is assigned a maximum (and only) rating of 10%, regardless of whether it affects one or both ears. A separate 10% rating cannot be assigned for each ear — only a single 10% evaluation is authorized.
“Tinnitus, recurrent”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Tinnitus, recurrent?
View 5 secondary conditions linked to Tinnitus, recurrent
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Tinnitus, recurrent VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Tinnitus, recurrent?
The VA rates Tinnitus, recurrent under Diagnostic Code 6260 at 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Tinnitus, recurrent. The maximum 10% rating requires: Tinnitus, recurrent.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Tinnitus, recurrent?
The VA rates Tinnitus, recurrent under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6260, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.87. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Tinnitus, recurrent qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Tinnitus, recurrent may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Tinnitus, recurrent?
Service connection for Tinnitus, recurrent requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Tinnitus, recurrent?
Tinnitus, recurrent is associated with 5 documented secondary conditions. Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. See the secondary conditions page for the full list with medical rationale and evidence strength ratings.
What is the C&P exam like for Tinnitus, recurrent?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Tinnitus, recurrent uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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