VA Disability Rating for Tinnitus: 2026 Guide

Tinnitus — ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears — is the single most claimed VA disability. Over 3 million veterans are service-connected for tinnitus. It is always rated at exactly 10%, and understanding what to file alongside it is key to maximizing your benefits.

Why Tinnitus Is Always Rated 10%

The VA rates tinnitus under Diagnostic Code 6260. Unlike most conditions with a range of rating levels, DC 6260 has exactly one compensable rating: 10%. This applies regardless of severity — constant debilitating tinnitus gets the same 10% as mild occasional ringing. You cannot receive a second 10% for the other ear.

How Much Does 10% Pay in 2026?

A standalone 10% rating pays $175.51 per month in 2026. But tinnitus almost never stands alone — combined with other conditions, it increases your overall rating significantly. Use the VA Disability Calculator to see your combined rating with tinnitus added.

Filing a Tinnitus Claim

To establish service connection you need: a current tinnitus diagnosis, an in-service noise exposure event, and a nexus linking the two. Almost every military occupation involves significant noise — weapons fire, aircraft, vehicles, generators, and explosions all qualify. Your military occupational specialty (MOS) often establishes noise exposure automatically for infantry, artillery, aviation, and motor pool veterans.

Always File Hearing Loss Too

Tinnitus and sensorineural hearing loss almost always result from the same noise exposure. VA hearing loss is rated separately under DC 6100. Filing both in the same claim is highly recommended — they are separate diagnostic codes and do not reduce each other in the combined ratings formula.

Secondary Conditions to Consider

Tinnitus causes real secondary conditions: depression and anxiety from chronic noise (ratable at 30–70%), sleep disturbances from inability to fall asleep, and for combat veterans, tinnitus as a PTSD trigger supporting a higher mental health rating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the VA rating for tinnitus?

Tinnitus is rated at exactly 10% under Diagnostic Code 6260 — no higher, regardless of severity. You cannot receive a second 10% for the other ear.

How much does 10% tinnitus pay in 2026?

A 10% VA disability rating pays $175.51 per month in 2026 (veteran alone). Combined with other conditions it increases your total combined rating.

Can I get more than 10% for tinnitus?

No. The maximum rating for tinnitus is 10%. However, secondary conditions caused by tinnitus — such as depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders — can be separately rated at higher levels.

How do I file a VA claim for tinnitus?

File VA Form 21-526EZ on VA.gov. You need a current tinnitus diagnosis and documentation of in-service noise exposure (weapons, aircraft, vehicles, explosions).