Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6205)
The VA rates Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6205, from 30% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires Hearing impairment with attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring more than once weekly, with or without tinnitus. Related conditions in the Auditory body system share this rating framework.
What are the VA rating criteria for Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops)?
Hearing impairment with vertigo less than once a month, with or without tinnitus
Hearing impairment with attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring from one to four times a month, with or without tinnitus
Hearing impairment with attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring more than once weekly, with or without tinnitus
“Hearing impairment with attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring from one to four times a month, with or without tinnitus”
How does the VA rate Auditory conditions?
Common Questions About Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) VA Ratings
What is the VA disability rating for Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops)?
The VA rates Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) under Diagnostic Code 6205 at the following tiers: 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 30% rating requires: Hearing impairment with vertigo less than once a month, with or without tinnitus. The maximum 100% rating requires: Hearing impairment with attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring more than once weekly, with or without tinnitus.
What is Diagnostic Code 6205?
Diagnostic Code 6205 is the VA rating identifier for Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.87. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.
What is the highest rating for Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops)?
The highest schedular rating for Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) under DC 6205 is 100%. This tier requires: Hearing impairment with attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring more than once weekly, with or without tinnitus. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What 38 CFR section governs Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) ratings?
Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6205. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops)?
Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops)?
Service connection for Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops) requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.
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