Understanding how the VA evaluates disability claims can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with conditions that impact your balance, focus, and daily movement. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the vertigo VA rating in 2025 so you can understand what compensation you may be entitled to.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo isn’t just dizziness – it’s the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning, often accompanied by nausea, imbalance, vision issues, and trouble standing or walking. For Veterans, vertigo is a common condition, especially among those exposed to:
- Blasts or concussive forces
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Inner-ear injuries
- Loud noise exposure
- Repetitive head trauma during training or deployment
Because vertigo can interfere with work, driving, physical activity, and even simple daily tasks, the VA allows Veterans to file for disability compensation if the condition is tied to their service.
How Does the VA Rate Vertigo?
The VA rating for vertigo is determined using Diagnostic Code 6204 (Peripheral Vestibular Disorders) or Diagnostic Code 6205 (Meniere’s Disease) depending on the root cause of your symptoms.
Below is a breakdown of how each rating category works.
Vertigo VA Rating Under DC 6204
These ratings apply when vertigo stems from a vestibular disorder, such as damage to the inner ear.
30% Vertigo VA Rating (Highest Rating Under DC 6204)
A 30% rating applies to severe symptoms that may include:
- Frequent, chronic episodes of vertigo
- Loss of balance or unsteadiness
- Trouble walking or standing without assistance
- Episodes that significantly interfere with work or daily functioning
Example: A Veteran experiences weekly vertigo attacks that make it unsafe to drive or operate equipment, forcing them to miss work and limit physical activity.
10% Vertigo VA Rating
This rating is for occasional dizziness that is noticeable but does not completely disrupt daily life. Symptoms might include:
- Light or brief vertigo episodes
- Mild balance issues
- Occasional nausea
- Moments of disorientation
Example: A Veteran experiences dizziness once or twice a month but manages symptoms with medication and careful movement.
Vertigo VA Rating Under DC 6205 (Meniere’s Disease)
If your vertigo is part of a cluster of symptoms — such as hearing loss and tinnitus — the VA may evaluate you under the Meniere’s Disease diagnostic code. Ratings here are higher because symptoms tend to be more disabling.
100% Rating
Assigned if symptoms occur more than once weekly, including:
- Vertigo
- Hearing impairment
- Tinnitus
60% Rating
Assigned if symptoms occur one to four times per month.
30% Rating
Assigned if symptoms occur less than once per month.
Veterans cannot receive separate ratings for vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss and a Meniere’s rating at the same time. The VA will choose whichever results in the higher overall rating.
Common Causes of Vertigo in Veterans
Vertigo can be connected to service in several ways, including:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head trauma from blast exposure, accidents, or training can lead to long-term vestibular issues.
Inner Ear Damage
Repeated exposure to loud noises or pressure changes during service can affect inner-ear structures that control balance.
Neck Injuries
Cervical spine injuries can contribute to balance problems and dizziness.
Medications
Some medications prescribed for service-connected conditions may cause vertigo as a side effect.
Vertigo as a Secondary Service-Connected Condition
Many Veterans develop vertigo secondary to another condition. Common secondary connections include:
TBI
One of the most common pathways to secondary-service-connected vertigo.
Hearing Loss or Tinnitus
Inner ear damage can contribute to persistent dizziness.
PTSD and Anxiety Disorders
Chronic stress can trigger or worsen dizziness symptoms.
Neck and Spine Conditions
Cervical misalignment or nerve damage may cause balance issues.
Medications for Pain or Mental Health
Some service-connected treatment plans include drugs known to affect balance.
If you’re already service-connected for any of these conditions, you may qualify to claim vertigo as a secondary disability.
What Evidence Do You Need for a Vertigo VA Claim?
To secure the strongest possible vertigo VA rating, Veterans should gather:
- A formal diagnosis of vertigo or vestibular dysfunction
- Service treatment records showing injury, illness, or exposure
- Medical nexus linking your vertigo to service
- Notes documenting frequency and severity of dizziness episodes
- Evidence of how vertigo affects employment and daily life
In many cases, the VA C&P exam plays a critical role in determining whether your symptoms meet the 10% or 30% criteria — or qualify under Meniere’s Disease.
FAQs About the Vertigo VA Rating
Can I get VA compensation if my vertigo existed before service?
Yes — but you must show your condition worsened due to military service.
What is the maximum VA rating for vertigo?
Under DC 6204, the highest rating is 30%.
Under DC 6205 (Meniere’s), the rating can go up to 100%.
Is vertigo eligible for TDIU?
Yes. Severe vertigo that prevents you from working may qualify you for Total Disability Individual Unemployability.
Final Thoughts
Vertigo can make daily life unpredictable and challenging — but you don’t have to navigate the VA system alone. Understanding how the vertigo VA rating works puts you in a better position to secure the compensation you deserve.
Many Veterans qualify for increases or secondary connections without realizing it. If your vertigo has worsened or if you believe it is tied to another service-connected condition, you may be eligible for a higher disability rating.
Are You Receiving the Compensation You Deserve?
Living with vertigo can affect everything from your confidence to your ability to work or simply move through your day. That’s why Veteran Ratings is here — to help you understand your options and pursue the rating you rightfully qualify for.
If you’re unsure where to begin or feel your current rating doesn’t reflect what you’re experiencing, reach out. Our team offers a quick, no-obligation case review to help you understand your next steps. Fill out the form below or call us at (619) 916-4652 to get started.
