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Tinnitus, recurrent
Diagnostic code 6260 · Ear · 38 CFR 4.87
VA has proposed changing these rules
The proposal (87 FR 8474 (supplemental proposal 89 FR 74162, Sept. 12, 2024), published February 15, 2022) is not in effect. The rules on this page still apply until VA publishes a final rule.
Read the proposal in the Federal RegisterRating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.87. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 6260 Tinnitus, recurrent | 10 |
| Note (1): A separate evaluation for tinnitus may be combined with an evaluation under diagnostic codes 6100, 6200, 6204, or other diagnostic code, except when tinnitus supports an evaluation under one of those diagnostic codes. | |
| Note (2): Assign only a single evaluation for recurrent tinnitus, whether the sound is perceived in one ear, both ears, or in the head. | |
| Note (3): Do not evaluate objective tinnitus (in which the sound is audible to other people and has a definable cause that may or may not be pathologic) under this diagnostic code, but evaluate it as part of any underlying condition causing it. |
Related codes in the regulation
- 6200 Chronic suppurative otitis media, mastoiditis, or cholesteatoma (or any combination)Mentioned together
- 6204 Peripheral vestibular disordersMentioned together
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
- Hearing Loss and TinnitusVA doesn't publish this form; a VA or VA-contract examiner completes it.
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.87, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Change history for this code (38 CFR Part 4, Appendix A): Added October 1, 1961; criterion October 1, 1961; evaluation March 10, 1976; removed December 18, 1987; re-designated § 4.87a December 18, 1987. Moved to § 4.87 June 10, 1999.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
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