Tinnitus is one of the most commonly claimed disabilities among veterans, with hundreds of thousands of cases approved every year. As a condition often caused by exposure to loud noise in service—such as gunfire, explosions, or engine noise—tinnitus has long been recognized by the VA as a valid, service-connected issue. However, proposed updates to the VA’s rating system in 2025 could significantly alter how tinnitus is evaluated for disability compensation.

Current VA Ratings for Tinnitus

As of now, tinnitus is generally rated at 10% under Diagnostic Code 6260. That 10% is the maximum schedular rating, regardless of whether the tinnitus affects one ear or both. The condition is considered subjectively—based largely on the veteran’s report of persistent ringing, buzzing, or similar sounds that are not caused by an external source.

The 10% rating may not seem high, but for many veterans, it can be a gateway to receiving compensation or qualifying for additional benefits when combined with other service-connected disabilities. In some cases, it also plays a role in the Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) evaluation.

What Changes Are Being Proposed in 2025?

The VA has indicated that it may remove tinnitus as a standalone compensable condition and instead require it to be rated only as a symptom of another underlying disease or injury, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), hearing loss, or a neurological disorder.

This would mean that veterans can no longer receive a separate 10% rating for tinnitus unless they can link it to another service-connected condition. In essence, tinnitus would become a secondary symptom, rather than a primary disability eligible for direct compensation.

Why Is the VA Making This Change?

The VA claims that this change is intended to bring its rating schedule in line with modern medical understanding. Since tinnitus is often a symptom rather than a disease in itself, the VA argues that it should be evaluated in relation to its root cause.

Critics of the change point out that this could be a cost-saving move, as tinnitus claims make up a significant portion of all disability awards. Veterans’ advocates worry that this shift could leave thousands of service members without compensation for a condition that affects their daily lives—even when it clearly resulted from military service.

How Will This Affect Veterans?

Veterans who already have a 10% rating for tinnitus are not expected to be impacted by the change, as their ratings will likely be grandfathered. However, any new claims filed after the change takes effect may be denied unless the tinnitus can be medically connected to another service-connected condition.

For veterans who currently experience tinnitus but have not filed a claim, this creates a strong incentive to submit an application before the new rules go into effect.

What Should Veterans Do Now?

• File a claim immediately if you’ve been diagnosed with tinnitus or experience persistent ringing in your ears related to your service.

• Seek a medical opinion that links your tinnitus to service-related noise exposure or to another condition that could support a secondary claim in the future.

• Document your symptoms thoroughly, including their frequency, duration, and impact on daily functioning.

• Work with a VSO or accredited representative to ensure your claim is filed correctly and supported by sufficient medical evidence.

What About Appeals?

If your tinnitus claim is denied under the new rules, you may still be able to appeal or file a supplemental claim based on new and relevant evidence. Demonstrating a link between tinnitus and another condition—like hearing loss or TBI—will be critical.

Final Thoughts

Tinnitus may seem like a minor issue to those who haven’t experienced it, but for many veterans, it causes constant frustration, sleep disruption, and mental fatigue. The 2025 VA changes could make it more difficult for veterans to receive compensation for tinnitus, especially if they delay filing claims or lack documentation.

Veterans should not wait. Acting now can ensure they receive the benefits they’ve earned, before the VA makes it harder to prove what so many already know: tinnitus is real, and it’s service-connected.