10. Tinnitus: The "Gateway" Claim to Higher Ratings
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is the most common VA disability claim. It is almost always rated at a flat 10%. While 10% doesn't seem like much money (approx $170/mo), its real value is as a Gateway Claim.
Building on Tinnitus
Once you are service-connected for Tinnitus, you can link other high-value conditions to it as "Secondary":
- Migraines (Secondary to Tinnitus): Can be rated up to 50%.
- Anxiety/Depression (Secondary to Tinnitus): Can be rated up to 70% or 100%.
- Somatic Symptom Disorder: Related to the distress of constant ringing.
If you have ringing in your ears but haven't filed because "it's only 10%," you are missing out on the foundation for a much higher rating.
Start Your Claim Today
Do you have Tinnitus? Let us help you use it as a stepping stone to the benefits you deserve.