Peripheral vestibular disorders — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6204)

The VA rates Peripheral vestibular disorders under Diagnostic Code 6204 at the following tiers: 10%, 30%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Occasional dizziness. The maximum 30% rating requires: Dizziness and occasional staggering.

Diagnostic Code 6204 is the VA rating identifier for Peripheral vestibular disorders 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.

The highest schedular rating for Peripheral vestibular disorders under DC 6204 is 30%. This tier requires: Dizziness and occasional staggering. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Peripheral vestibular disorders alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Peripheral vestibular disorders is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6204. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Peripheral vestibular disorders may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Peripheral vestibular disorders 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.