Peripheral Vestibular Disorder

DC 6204Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.87, DC 6204

A disorder of the inner ear balance system that causes dizziness and balance problems. The VA rates peripheral vestibular disorders based on the severity of dizziness and staggering.

Rating Levels

You have dizziness and occasional staggering. This is the maximum schedular rating for peripheral vestibular disorders. Note: hearing impairment and tinnitus may be rated separately if also present.

What the VA looks for

Dizziness with occasional staggering
Objective findings supporting vestibular diagnosis
Abnormal vestibular testing (ENG, VNG, or VEMP)
Documentation of balance difficulties
Risk of falls documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Objective findings are required — subjective dizziness alone is not enough. You need vestibular testing (ENG, VNG, VEMP, or similar) to support the diagnosis.
⚠Not understanding that the maximum rating under DC 6204 is 30%, but hearing loss and tinnitus can be rated separately and combined for a higher total.
⚠Not documenting falls, near-falls, or inability to perform activities due to dizziness — these details support the severity of the condition.
⚠Not considering whether your condition qualifies under Meniere's disease (DC 6205) instead, which has higher rating levels up to 100%.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ear Conditions (including Tinnitus)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…