38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR §§ 4.85–4.87
Peripheral Vestibular Disorders
dc-6204-peripheral-vestibular-disorders
Auditory / ENT
Diagnostic code
6204
Why your DC matters: DC 6204 is the exact code the VA uses to rate this condition. It determines which symptoms unlock which percentage, what evidence the rater looks for, and which secondaries are most likely to be approved.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 6204 — Peripheral Vestibular Disorders — is listed under 38 CFR §§ 4.85–4.87 in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Educational index row from the rating schedule naming convention; confirm exact diagnostic code, effective date, and criteria in the current eCFR Part 4.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (6204) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “6204”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 6204 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 6204 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
Peripheral vestibular disorders under DC 6204 — including Ménière's-associated, BPPV, and labyrinthitis-related vertigo — have a clean two-tier schedule (10/30%). The 30% gate requires both dizziness AND occasional staggering. Veterans rated 10% for 'just dizziness' often qualify for 30% once balance instability is documented. Audiology + vestibular testing seals the rating. Note: If you have full Ménière's syndrome with hearing loss + tinnitus + vertigo, rate under DC 6205 (which can reach 100%), not 6204.
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 30% | Dizziness and occasional staggering. | Vestibular testing (VNG, posturography); chart documentation of balance instability or falls; occupational impact note. |
| 10% | Occasional dizziness. | Provider note documenting episodic vertigo or dizziness; vestibular workup confirming peripheral origin. |
What Qualifies Under DC 6204?
Diagnosis of peripheral vestibular disorder
Includes BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, peripheral vestibular hypofunction. Confirmed by ENT + vestibular testing.
Two-tier schedule
DC 6204:
- • 10% — Occasional dizziness
- • 30% — Dizziness AND occasional staggering
Note — full Ménière's rates higher under DC 6205
If hearing loss + tinnitus + vertigo all coexist, rate under DC 6205 (Ménière's syndrome), not 6204. DC 6205 reaches 100%.
Language Your Rater Needs to See
These are the exact (or near-exact) regulatory phrases that unlock specific tiers. If your DBQ or C&P report doesn't use this vocabulary, the rater may default to a lower percentage even when symptoms qualify.
“Dizziness AND occasional staggering”
Both prongs. 'Staggering' = visible balance loss on exam or by history. Chart notes saying 'unsteady gait' or 'positive Romberg' establish the staggering component.
“Occasional dizziness”
Episodic vertigo, not constant. Without staggering documentation, you cap here.
“Peripheral (not central) vestibular origin”
DC 6204 is for PERIPHERAL disorders. Central vertigo (from CNS lesion) rates under different DCs. ENT/audiology testing confirms peripheral origin.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
ENT or otolaryngology evaluation
CRITICALDocuments peripheral origin and rules out central causes. Foundational evidence.
Vestibular function testing (VNG, ENG, posturography, rotational chair)
CRITICALObjectively confirms vestibular dysfunction + identifies side. Posturography measures balance instability.
Balance/staggering documentation
CRITICALChart notes of unsteady gait, positive Romberg, fall history. The 30% gate.
Vertigo episode diary
IMPORTANTFrequency, duration, triggers, associated symptoms (nausea, hearing changes, tinnitus). Documents 'occasional' vs. frequent.
Audiology testing
IMPORTANTRules in/out hearing loss (would push to DC 6205 Ménière's). Tinnitus baseline.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring vestibular testing reports
VNG, posturography, rotational chair results are objective evidence the examiner can cite directly in the DBQ.
Mention every fall or near-fall
Each fall is staggering evidence. Specific incidents > generic 'I lose my balance sometimes.'
Describe occupational impact in concrete terms
'I can't climb ladders anymore.' 'I had to give up driving.' Drives TDIU consideration in severe cases.
Don't say 'I'm used to it now'
Sounds like adaptation = lower rating. Describe what triggers vertigo, how often, and what daily activities you've had to modify or stop.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Filing as 'dizziness' instead of vertigo
Dizziness is a symptom; vertigo is a specific spinning sensation. Use the specific term.
Not pursuing vestibular function testing
Without objective testing, examiners default to 10% even when symptoms support 30%.
Missing the Ménière's pathway
If you have vertigo + tinnitus + hearing loss, you have Ménière's (DC 6205), not just DC 6204. DC 6205 can reach 100%.
Tactical Plays
⚡ Document staggering — it's the 10→30% bridge
Most veterans with vertigo describe dizziness but never mention balance instability. Falls, near-falls, having to grab walls — all support 'occasional staggering' for 30%.
⚡ Check for Ménière's syndrome (DC 6205)
If you have vertigo PLUS tinnitus PLUS hearing loss, that's Ménière's — DC 6205, which rates up to 100% (vs. DC 6204's 30% ceiling). Pursue audiology testing.
⚡ Vestibular migraine = separate rating
If migraines accompany vertigo, file DC 8100 separately. Vestibular migraine is a recognized entity in current neurology guidelines.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Tinnitus
MODERATEDC 6260
Often coexists with vestibular disorders. Tinnitus rates separately at 10%.
Hearing loss
MODERATEDC 6100
Vestibular disorders often involve cochlear dysfunction too; pursue audiometric testing.
Migraines (vestibular migraine)
MODERATEDC 8100
Vestibular migraine is a recognized entity; rates separately under DC 8100.
Anxiety / depression
MODERATEDC 9400 / 9434
Chronic vertigo with fall risk drives anxiety/depression secondary.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
10% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$180.42
TOTAL
$180.42/mo
Occasional dizziness; no documented staggering.
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
Dizziness + occasional staggering documented.
30% vertigo + 10% tinnitus + 10% hearing loss
Base rating
$795.84
TOTAL
$795.84/mo
Combined 43% rounds to 40%. If pattern fits Ménière's, consider DC 6205 (up to 100%) instead.
Note: Amounts are approximations rounded to nearest dollar. Actual comp varies with effective date, dependents (spouse, children, parents — each adds), Aid & Attendance, and additional disabilities. Combined ratings use VA Math (§ 4.25), not simple addition.
Key Definitions
🧭What is 'Peripheral' vs. 'Central' Vertigo?
Peripheral = problem with inner ear or vestibular nerve (DC 6204 territory). Central = problem with brainstem or cerebellum (rated under different DCs, often § 4.124a). ENT testing differentiates.
🚶What is 'Staggering' for DC 6204?
Visible balance loss — unsteady gait, near-falls, positive Romberg sign, or actual falls during vertigo episodes. The 30% gate.
🌀What is BPPV?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo — brief intense spinning triggered by head position changes. Treated with Epley/Semont maneuvers. Common in veterans with prior head/ear trauma.
How to File Your Claim
Get an ENT/audiology + vestibular workup
VNG, posturography, audiometry. Establishes peripheral origin + severity.
Build a vertigo episode diary
Frequency, duration, triggers, associated symptoms.
File 21-526EZ specifying 'peripheral vestibular disorder (DC 6204)'
If pattern fits Ménière's, list DC 6205 instead.
Document staggering events explicitly
Falls, near-falls, balance-loss incidents. Drives 30% rating.
Stack secondaries (tinnitus, hearing loss, migraine)
Each rates separately.
Typical Claim Timeline
File initial claim
Day 0–7: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all medical evidence on file
VA acknowledges claim
Week 1–2: Receive confirmation letter and claim tracking number
C&P examination scheduled
Month 1–3: VA contracts an exam vendor and sends you appointment notice
Attend C&P exam
Bring your full evidence package; describe symptoms on your worst days, not your best
Decision & rating notice
Month 3–6: Decision letter with rating percentage and effective date
First payment & retro back pay
Within 15 days of decision; retroactive to claim date (or effective date if earlier)
Timeline varies by case complexity and VA regional office workload. Some claims resolve faster; others take longer.
Important Considerations
Distinguish from Ménière's (DC 6205)
Ménière's = vertigo + tinnitus + hearing loss together. Files under DC 6205 with 30/60/100% tiers, not DC 6204.
Staggering documentation is the 30% gate
Most veterans never explicitly mention balance loss. Falls, near-falls, hand-rail use during episodes = staggering.
Falls trigger TDIU consideration
Repeated falls from vertigo can prevent maintaining employment in many fields — document occupational impact.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between DC 6204 and DC 6205?
DC 6204 = peripheral vestibular disorders (vertigo without hearing loss + tinnitus pattern). DC 6205 = Ménière's syndrome (vertigo + tinnitus + hearing loss together). DC 6205 reaches 100%, DC 6204 caps at 30%.
Does BPPV qualify for a rating?
Yes if chronic or recurrent. Episodic positional vertigo with repeat ENT visits, balance instability, or treatment escalation supports DC 6204 rating.
Can I rate vertigo separately from tinnitus?
Yes when they're distinct conditions. Tinnitus (DC 6260) rates at 10%. Vertigo (DC 6204) rates separately at 10/30%. They don't pyramid.
What if my vertigo is from a brain injury?
Central vertigo from TBI rates under different DCs (typically § 4.124a or TBI residuals under DC 8045). Get neurology workup to differentiate.
Official Regulatory Source
Peripheral vestibular disorders are rated under 38 CFR § 4.87, DC 6204.
38 CFR § 4.87 — Ear (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 6204. DC 6205 (Ménière's) is the higher-tier alternative if hearing loss + tinnitus also present.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 6204, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Obtaining a nexus letter if needed to establish or strengthen service connection
- Filing for secondary conditions that may be related to this primary condition
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 6204 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.