How the VA Rates Meniere's Syndrome
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6205 criteria a VA rater evaluates Meniere's Syndrome against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic codes 6205, 6204
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6205 for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.
30%
$552.47/month
Meniere's syndrome with hearing impairment and vertigo less than once a month, with or without tinnitus.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Hearing loss plus vertigo attacks less than monthly
- Episodic dizziness/spinning
- With or without tinnitus
60%
$1,435.02/month
Meniere's syndrome with hearing impairment and attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring from one to four times per month, with or without tinnitus.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Hearing loss with vertigo AND cerebellar (unsteady) gait
- Attacks 1–4 times per month
- Falls or near-falls during attacks
100%
$3,938.58/month
Meniere's syndrome with hearing impairment and attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring more than once weekly, with or without tinnitus.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Hearing loss with vertigo AND cerebellar gait more than once weekly
- Frequent incapacitating attacks
- Severe impairment of balance and daily function
The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.
C&P exam tips for Meniere's Syndrome
- What wins this rating: documentation of the FREQUENCY of vertigo attacks per month/week and whether they are accompanied by cerebellar gait (staggering/unsteadiness) — frequency plus gait disturbance drives the rating.
- Keep a log of every vertigo attack: date, duration, and whether you lost balance or fell.
- Note: Meniere's can be rated under DC 6205 OR by separately rating vertigo (DC 6204) plus hearing loss and tinnitus — whichever yields the higher combined evaluation. Discuss both approaches.
- Bring audiology and any vestibular testing (ENG/VNG) results.
Common mistakes on Meniere's Syndrome claims
- Not documenting attack frequency, which is the primary rating driver.
- Failing to note cerebellar gait/unsteadiness during attacks (required for 60% and 100%).
- Not comparing DC 6205 against separately rating vertigo + hearing loss + tinnitus for the higher total.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Meniere's Syndrome?
Meniere's Syndrome is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6205 — diagnostic codes 6205, 6204.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Meniere's Syndrome?
100% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Meniere's Syndrome. The criteria at that level describe: Meniere's syndrome with hearing impairment and attacks of vertigo and cerebellar gait occurring more than once weekly, with or without tinnitus.
How much does a 100% VA rating for Meniere's Syndrome pay in 2026?
$3,938.58 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.
Build your Meniere's Syndrome claim documentation
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Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.