Did you know that the most common service-connected disability claimed by veterans is tinnitus? Tinnitus is claimed by an estimated 2.9 million veterans – and is one of the easiest disabilities for veterans to claim. Veterans who have returned home and experience tinnitus want to know – what is the VA disability rating for tinnitus? Veterans Law Attorneys in Cincinnati, OH may be able to help answer your questions about veteran disability benefits and the disability claims process.
How Does the VA Rate Tinnitus?
Tinnitus – commonly referred to as Ringing-in-the-Ear-Syndrome – is a common veteran disability that involves a chronic ringing, buzzing, hissing, or a different noise in the veteran’s ears that is not related to an external sound. Tinnitus can be due to exposure to loud noises like explosions, a head injury, medical side effects, or additional ear-related medical problems.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) acknowledges tinnitus as a service-connected disability and offers compensation. The VA rating system for tinnitus is straightforward. No matter whether veterans have tinnitus in one or both ears, the VA assigns a maximum disability rating of 10% for tinnitus. Veterans with tinnitus may be eligible for higher disability ratings if they experience hearing loss or other service-connected conditions that can be related to or increase the tinnitus symptoms.
Tinnitus presents a unique challenge for the VA. Unlike many disabilities, tinnitus is subjective with no definitive diagnostic test to prove that a veteran has this medical condition. Veterans either experience tinnitus or they don’t. To prove their tinnitus is service-connected, a Statement in Support of a Claim is crucial. This document details the veteran’s military service events or injuries that may have caused or worsened their tinnitus.
Can Your VA Disability Rating for Tinnitus Be Increased?
Are you stuck with a 10% VA disability rating for tinnitus? Are you wondering if your disability rating for tinnitus can be increased? While tinnitus itself has a maximum rating of 10%, the story doesn’t end there. Tinnitus can be a secondary condition to other service-connected issues that carry a higher disability rating. If your tinnitus can be linked to Vertigo or Meniere’s Syndrome, your overall disability rating can be increased significantly, potentially reaching 100% disability. This highlights the importance of a comprehensive VA claim that explores how tinnitus impacts your life and any potential connections to other health conditions.
READ MORE: How Often Are VA Disability Ratings Reevaluated?
An understanding of VA disability ratings for tinnitus can empower you to secure the benefits you have earned with years of military service. This quick guide explores the VA rating system for tinnitus and how tinnitus can be a secondary condition influencing your overall compensation. If you have questions about tinnitus, service connection, or increasing your current disability rating, don’t hesitate to contact Veterans Law Attorneys for help.
