Updated March 2026

Hearing Loss VA Disability Rating

Q: Should I file for tinnitus along with hearing loss?

Yes. Tinnitus (DC 6260) is rated separately from hearing loss at a flat 10% and is the most commonly service-connected VA disability. If you have noise-induced hearing loss, you almost certainly also have tinnitus. Filing both together ensures you receive the 10% tinnitus rating even if your hearing loss is rated at 0%.

Diagnostic Code 6100 — Hearing impairment rated 0–100% based on audiometric test results. Unlike most conditions, hearing loss uses a mechanical formula based on puretone thresholds and speech discrimination scores.

Rating Criteria

Hearing loss is rated differently from most VA conditions. Instead of descriptive criteria, the VA uses audiometric test results to assign a rating mechanically:

Rating	General Description	2026 Monthly Pay
0%	Most common rating. Hearing loss is service-connected but audiometric results do not meet compensable thresholds. Still qualifies for VA hearing aids and healthcare.	$0.00
10%	Mild to moderate bilateral hearing loss meeting minimum compensable thresholds.	$180.42
20–40%	Moderate to moderately severe bilateral hearing loss.	$356.66–$795.84
50–80%	Severe bilateral hearing loss.	$1,132.90–$2,102.15
100%	Profound bilateral hearing loss or deafness in both ears.	$3,938.58

Pay rates shown are for a single veteran with no dependents. View full 2026 rate tables with dependents.

Note: The exact rating is determined by cross-referencing puretone thresholds and speech discrimination scores in VA Tables VI and VII (38 CFR 4.85).

Key Facts

Hearing loss ratings are based on a mechanical formula using audiometric testing — subjective complaints alone do not determine the rating
Most veterans with hearing loss receive a 0% (non-compensable) rating, but this still provides access to VA hearing aids
Hearing loss and tinnitus are separate conditions with separate ratings that combine together
Hearing loss is one of the few conditions that can worsen over time, supporting future increase claims

Common Secondary Conditions

Veterans with hearing loss often file for these related conditions to increase their combined rating:

Tinnitus (DC 6260) — The most common companion claim. Almost all veterans with noise-induced hearing loss also have tinnitus. Rated at a flat 10%. Always file tinnitus alongside hearing loss.
Vertigo / Meniere's Disease (DC 6205) — Inner ear damage that causes hearing loss can also cause balance disorders. Rated 30–100%.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the VA rate hearing loss?

The VA rates hearing loss using audiometric test results (puretone threshold averages and speech discrimination scores). Each ear is assigned a Roman numeral level (I through XI) using Table VI or VIa in 38 CFR 4.85. The two numeral designations are then cross-referenced in Table VII to determine the percentage rating from 0% to 100%.

Why is my hearing loss rated at 0%?

Most veterans with hearing loss receive a 0% (non-compensable) rating because the VA uses a strict mechanical formula based on audiometric testing. Even noticeable hearing difficulty may not meet the threshold for a compensable rating.

However, a 0% service-connected rating still provides eligibility for VA healthcare and hearing aids, and the condition can be increased later if hearing worsens.

Should I file for tinnitus along with hearing loss?

Yes. Tinnitus (DC 6260) is rated separately from hearing loss at a flat 10% and is the most commonly service-connected VA disability. If you have noise-induced hearing loss, you almost certainly also have tinnitus. Filing both together ensures you receive the 10% tinnitus rating even if your hearing loss is rated at 0%.

Calculate your combined VA disability rating with hearing loss and other conditions.

VA Disability Rating Calculator

In-Depth Guide

For detailed information on audiometric tables, C&P exams, and filing strategies for hearing loss claims, read our full guide:

Hearing Loss VA Rating 2026 — Full Guide