Tinnitus is the most commonly service-connected disability in the VA system, so headlines suggesting the VA might change how it is rated understandably get attention. Much of what circulates online about this topic is exaggerated or out of date. This article lays out exactly what the VA proposed, what has actually happened since, and what the regulation says today - citing only the primary sources.
For how tinnitus claims are decided under the rules in force right now, see our tinnitus service connection guide and our guide to tinnitus ratings under Diagnostic Code 6260.
What the regulation says today
Under 38 CFR 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6260, recurrent tinnitus is evaluated at 10 percent. A single 10 percent evaluation is assigned whether the sound is perceived in one ear, both ears, or in the head, and the regulation specifically provides that a separate tinnitus evaluation can be combined with ratings for hearing loss or other ear conditions. This is the rule in effect today.
What the VA proposed in 2022
On February 15, 2022, the VA published a proposed rule in the Federal Register (RIN 2900-AQ72) covering the ear, nose, throat, and audiology portions of the rating schedule. Among many other revisions, the proposal would remove the standalone tinnitus evaluation. Under the proposed framework, tinnitus would be evaluated only as a symptom associated with an underlying condition - for example, as part of a hearing loss evaluation - rather than as its own separately rated disability.
A proposed rule is exactly that - a proposal. Federal regulations change through a formal process: the agency publishes the proposal, accepts public comments, and may then revise, finalize, or abandon it. Nothing in a proposed rule changes anyone's rating or claim while it is pending.
Where veterans start
Every case is different, and there is no obligation at any step. When veterans want to understand what their records actually support, these are the two most common starting points:
- Medical records review
A licensed physician reviews your records for a $250 flat fee and identifies which conditions the available evidence may support. The fee is refunded in full if nothing supportable is identified.
- Nexus letter
When the records support one, a licensed provider writes the medical opinion addressing the link between your hearing condition and your service, including delayed-onset reasoning where that applies.
What has happened since
The 2022 proposal has not been finalized. Diagnostic Code 6260 remains in the current electronic Code of Federal Regulations, and tinnitus claims continue to be decided under it. The VA's proposal drew substantial public comment, including opposition from veterans service organizations, and the agency has not published a final rule adopting the tinnitus change as of this writing.
Separately, legislation introduced in Congress in 2026 proposed restricting tinnitus compensation as a way to offset the cost of other veterans legislation. That bill has not been enacted. Neither the regulation nor the statute governing tinnitus ratings has changed.
What this means in plain terms
The honest summary is short: the current 10 percent tinnitus rating still exists, claims are still decided under it, and veterans who already hold a tinnitus rating keep it. A change could come through the regulatory process at some point, and if a final rule is ever published, the Federal Register and the eCFR - both cited in the sources below - are where the authoritative text will appear.
This article is educational information drawn from official sources, not legal or claims advice. It is not a substitute for guidance from an accredited representative about your own claim.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 10 percent tinnitus rating going away?
Not under current law. The VA proposed eliminating the standalone rating in 2022, but the proposal was never finalized. Diagnostic Code 6260 remains in 38 CFR 4.87 and tinnitus claims continue to be decided under it.
If the rule is finalized later, would I lose my existing rating?
Proposed rules of this kind have historically included protections for veterans already holding ratings, and existing ratings are governed by the regulation in effect when they were granted. The 2022 proposal has not been finalized, so no change applies to anyone today.
Where can I read the official documents?
The proposed rule is published in the Federal Register (RIN 2900-AQ72, February 15, 2022), and the regulation currently in force is 38 CFR 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6260, available on the eCFR. Both are linked in the sources for this article.
How is tinnitus rated right now?
At a single 10 percent evaluation under Diagnostic Code 6260, whether the sound is in one ear, both ears, or the head. A separate tinnitus evaluation can be combined with a hearing loss rating under current rules.