1-stop-shop for VA Benefits: CivDivonline.com Here is how mental health will be rated under the new proposed criteria: ruclips.net/video/rFOwH0v1iN0/видео.htmlsi=RZB82WW3DxXPEI_M FedReg for Tinnitus: www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/02/15/2022-02049/schedule-for-rating-disabilities-ear-nose-throat-and-audiology-disabilities-special-provisions Am I just now realizing the cognition piece isn't sized correctly...yes. Am I just now realizing I didn't cut the end...also yes. - Clay
Question then I have timnitus with bilateral hearing loss which require hearing aids. Hearing aids are suppose help drown out the ringing I will need to visit the audiologist hearing aids not drowning out the ringing. And still while wearing hearing aids one reason my ex wife and me divorced. Tried another relationship and did not go well. Fighting all the time why some words. I can not hear especially if the person is speaking so low drives me crazy. Which cause me to go off the.deep end. So I guess I am hearing you say see the audiologist then I have see a psychiatrist to be examined again right is that what your saying. I have tinnutiis rated at 10 and hearing loss with zero but I have hearing aids which are really not doing what the suppose to do. So is this going to rates as one or will they add because I wear hearing aids you where not very clear in your pod cast. Any info there would be helpful. And u do experience dizziness when operating a lawnmower. So I guess it's back to the audiologist so she check to see if conditions have worsened.
Please note that you will receive a separate letter in the near futur regarding your dependency claim. Your Benefit Information: • Evaluation of meniere's disease (previously rated as vertigo, tinnitus, and left hearing loss), which is currently 30 percent disabling, is increased to 100 percent effective May 30, 2024. Basic eligibility to Dependents' Educational Assistance based permanent and total disability status is established from May 3 2024. •
I applied for vertigo secondary to my tinnitus last year. Both the VA audiologist and the VA ENT told me that tinnitus could not cause vertigo, even though the only time it ever happens is when my tinnitus flares up, and they are absolutely connected. It never happens without a tinnitus flare up immediately prior. Of course the VA ENT had no interest in finding what the mysterious source of this issue was. I filed for it anyway. Wrote a personal statement, and spoke in great detail about it to the C&P examiner (who was an NP). You could tell she didn't feel comfortable making decisions about that issue, but despite all that, I was approved for vertigo under the rating code for Meniere's syndrome.
@@Wheelz44 9 years. I was rated for tinnitus in 2014. I was pretty surprised they granted it to be honest. The ENT told me it wasn't possible, but also didn't care to spend any time on figuring out what else could cause it. The vertigo I experience developed as the tinnitus worsened over time.
Wait a second!!!! One time, i told my foxy several months so that one morning when i got up, i had balancing issues!!!! It scared me!!!! My doctor said that maybe i got out of bed too fast!!!!
Vertigo got so bad I spent a week in the hospital blind. Have never been so scared. The doc said tinnitus causes vertigo and sometimes can cause temporary blindness. It was a week of being terrified. When it started to wear off I have never been so relived. Also causes migraines and head aches
The VA rates symptoms, not the diagnosis. Hypothetical - If you get out of service next year and you have tinnitus. Instead of 10% for tinnitus, that could very likely be a 30 for dizziness, 30/50 for migraines, hearing loss at 10 (minimum), and then severe cases would consider TBI and MH. - Clay
@@TheCivDiv right, this benefits BDD and folk with paper trail. Most soldiers don't have a good paper trail to establish S/C and they, if like me, don't file until years or 10+ years down the line. I was given tinnitus cuz I'm infantry, got it this year, got out in 2013.
Thank you for this informative uplifting video. After being out 40 years i applied just received 10% TBI in service skull fracture 30% post concussion head aches 0% hearing 10% tinnitus
I got 10% for tinnitus and went the MH route do to not sleeping and that made a problem with my job ( I worked at the VA in community care) It was getting harder day by day to help my guys out due to this problem and causes problems at home. After 21/2 yrs I was awarded 30% for mood depression and anxiety. I don't how the new way will work be pay attention to your mood and anxiety. God Bless to all.
I have 10% Tinnitus rating. Im currently waiting for next steps from the VA for C&P exams. I am currently waiting for Insomnia and Headaches/Migraines secondary to Tinnitus exams! Thank you for your videos!
How do I claim insomnia and anxiety/depression secondary to tinnitus and VA told me I need an exam from civilian doctor before I can file a claim. Can you advise me.
Great review of the proposed tinnitus change. You always seem to be under great control when you explain your idea on changes that may occur. Listening to your view on this topic should help some people take a deep breath and breath out. This change may not be as bad as what some people though it would be. Time will tell. Great job.
I was in the Marine Corps from 68-70, and in Vietnam. I was a grunt, and at Charlie 2, I was about 20 - 25 yards from the 105 mm, and the 175 mm. I had a ping in my ear, and never realised it was tinnitus until 2018. There's a good reason why the military did not give physical exams when people left the military.
Even though I don’t always agree with the young “The Civ Div” I am subscribe to his channel and recommend to others his very informative,channel. This gentleman is very conscientious and honest, along with the excellent information that he brings to veterans and their loved ones.
Just throwing mud on the wall here, taking 10% for tinnitus and expanding into mental health disorder ratings, wouldn't this be a move that could put us in the "not stable enough to own a firearm" category? It's always helpful to be suspicious of the government when they change things.
@@Blueknight1960 You need to work on your reading comprehension. "Mental health ratings", again, "ratings", your VA rating(s), have nothing to do with your ability to purchase a firearm. Your actual mental history and capacity do. If you are mentally unstable, and have been involuntarily committed by a court, you can not own a firearm legally. There is an exception made for being admitted for observation. Again, your VA rating has nothing to do with this, especially something as silly as secondary ratings adjacent to tinnitus. Again, you have to be formally adjudicated as "mentally incompetent".
Dear ol dad passed away 2021. 20 Navy vet who enlisted doing communications/flags during Korean War, so exposed to heavy guns early on. Hearing damaged to point eventually deaf in one ear. Tinitus.Eventually blind in one eye. Had a history of kidney stones in his Navy years. Also, Hypertension most adult life with late life AFib. Psoriatic Arthritis throughout his body. Got a pacemaker. Had a replacement joint in his shoulder (so a couple of serious surgeries which put him under anesthesia. Last 15 years he developed Dementia. Had a couple of falls so maybe some mini strokes, too. No autopsy so not 100% certain but likely he passed away with Alz. He had great pain and self medicated using 6 pack of beer nightly for a LONG TIME. Eventually, he was overweight, didn't like it. Put himself on a diet, did calisthenics. Lost the weight. Maintained weight loss but continued to consume high Glucose Index foods. While he did make smoothies with home grown fruits and had big salads including homegrown veggies, by and large he consumed a very traditional SAD diet. Took meds. Had many appointments. Around this time he was still gardening and did have a few "little" falls on the property. Maybe small strokes which were not evaluated as he did not talk about the falls until days later when he was "better". Ultimately he passed in a nursing home as the family was unable to care for him once incontinence started. We were fortunate his experience with Alz didn't impact his anger emotions but he did need an anti anxiety med which NH gave him. I am giving you a thumb nail sketch, and still haven't really finished mourning for him. I am now learning more about damaged mitochondria being at the base of sleep apnea and tinnitus. He was on oxygen during hospital stays but not CPAP, it was never recommended nor a sleep study by the VA despite lifetime of snoring. Both tinnitus and sleep apnea area driven by issues in the brain and negatively impact the mitochondria. IF any of this sounds like you, please look into supporting the health of your mitochondria. Dad passed with 100% disability which was in place about 10 years before he passed. I know I've kinda co=opted a VA claims channel comment section so I will add one more thing: look into Dr. Greger and Dr. Dylan Petkus who each have channels here in YT with useful free research based education for the public. Own your health and well being AND pursue your insurance coverages promised to you. Thank you for reading.
I would say "not applicable" for some of the tasks I can't perform due to other disabilities - not mental health. Still got the ringing in the ears - and other sounds - along with vertigo, or dizziness increasing risk of falling , especially since my ability to walk, or even stand up, is already heavily challenged.
To me tinnitus is a hearing impairment/ loss. You could have hearing loss without tinnitus but having tinnitus alone is like having hearing impairment/ loss in a different form.
@@donbelenger817 Don, I'm in the same position and got 10% for tinnitus and awarded 0% for hearing loss yet I have a Nexus letter from my Audiologist stating that I show hearing loss. I appealed and again denied even though i wear hearing aids issued by VA Health. Go figure?????
My husband killed him self in November 😢he also had the ringing in his ears for years since he has been gone I found a hand written letter telling the va they have destroyed his life and had done nothing I don't know what the reason for him taking his life I'm going through cancer since April of 2023 could have been a combination I haven't been able to feel like it was just to much to go through when I finally was able to open the door and start looking for anything that could help me understand this process of income 😢😢😢😢not sure where to began with what forms or what I may need to get help started iv have death certificate, marriage license, letter telling the va they ruined his life I'm just wanting to get some advice on maybe following the right form
Can you believe my 94 year old mom has the tenacity of a bull dog and hunts down info the old school way...well she does. I am copying your post and emailing it to her. If she can give you any useful advice on navigating the VA or others I will come back here and add a comment. I am sorry that I am only just seeing this now 4 months after you were here. But I am confident she will have info that will help, I can only hope you will see these notes. Take Care
My mom's reply to you is seek out your local Disabled Vets office. It maybe that your VA hospital can share that info with you or it may be a simple google search. My best to you in your recovery.
Ive had sleeping problems in the corps and after i got out to present day. My girlfriend says she has to tap me and move away till this day because i wake up on 100% and ready to go. The va denied my sleeping issues because it wasn't connected because i never got help while in service. We are always told to suck it up which we all did. The issue is that it screws us in the long run. I wake up for no reason and still wake up exhausted
Can you get a sleep study somewhere? I had same experience and it was sleep apnea. I had 40 apneas/hour all NIGHT LONG. Until my body would say WAKE UP BOZO, and when I woke I thought "Oh, I must have to go to the loo"...So every night stopping breathing, waking up, going to loo...Then get up and parent/drive/ go to job, etc. Some folks can get off CPAP eventually, but when you need it you NEED it. I wish the best to you.
Just got my denial letter today for tinnitus. I’m a 12M firefighter that was deployed to Iraq where we experienced a large explosion. I have ringing, dizziness, nausea everyday. My C&P examiner wrote out that she does not think it was from tinnitus and may be something else, so I got declined!?!?
What you describe would have had to been documented. That would be easy to overturn with a Higher Level Review. if you have no documentation, then get it and submit as a Supplemental Claim.
Clay, as you know, I'm already 100% TDIU. However, I had a C&P exam in December 2023, and a Tinnitus and Hearing exam January 5th. I've sent for the DBQs because no decision yet. My question is this: IF the VA rates me 10% on each, it likely won't affect my pay, but if the bill passes (which is likely) would there be an automatic increase?
Greetings, new here, Marine Vet. I heard you mention that you recommend Radiculopathy rather than Bilateral Sciatica. Was just wondering why. I have pain in the left buttocks and left leg rather than the right. Thank you
How are these proposed changes being distributed and shared with Veterans? I had no prior knowledge of this and since this affects all Veterans, I feel that there is an intentional communications gap that grows even further between the VA and the Veteran community. The VA can call, text, and mail you an appointment reminder; however, they don't spread the word about any proposed changes via VSOs, etc. Where is the documentation that shows these proposed changes are in line with any civilian medical organization's changes to symptomology, diagnosis, and impact on earning capacity?? These "changes" align with the VA bureaucrat's desires to avoid paying our well-deserved benefits. No more and no less!
Problem with cognitive secondary is I can't turn off the ear ringing by taking a cognitive test get a score and then turn on ear ringing and get an another score and show a psychiatrist the difference results.
I don’t know why you bring TBI into the discussion when you were talking about tinnitus. I didn’t see anything that you were reading that showed TBI. It appeared that the things that you were talking about are things that could be caused by tinnitus, such as not being able to concentrate while you’re workingdue to the ringing in your ear. That wouldn’t be associated with TBI, but would be caused by tinnitus. Please explain.
Tinnitus is the result of damage to cochlea hairs usually caused by high frequency noise typical of working around active jet aircraft. Damage occurs however cochlea hairs can absorb high frequency and temporary heal themselves (reason why military audiograms are taken 15 hours after high frequency exposure). In my case VBA allowed for tinnitus and right ear hearing loss due to military but denied the left (though it’s 7 inches from my right). My VA advocate printed 206 pages of my medical record and I found where the audiogram numbers were transcribed wrong (took my 92 hearing test and applied it to separation). Made a spread sheet showing history from 80-93 and submitted it with my rebuttal. Thankfully VBA reversed their decision and May both ears service related. Listen up Veterans no one from the VA is going to help you unless you do the heavy lift. I got lucky in that my advocate guided me and printed out my record.
I was thinking about trying to get anxiety disorder secondary to tinnutis, but already have mild sleep apnea as a secondary and feel i was lucky on that. I scared if I ask for new claim with tinnitus they might talk away the sleep apnea if these proposals go through
I ETS in May and have ring in the ears that causes head aches, but I do not have anything link to causing my tinnitus which means that I will not only not get rated for tinnitus, but my head aches are going to be rated as non survice connected. The people already rated are fine but me and all future service members are being screwed.
Wouldn't this be more difficult to prove for folks that waited to get a rating and maybnot have a medical diagnosis or record in their service treatment record? Like some of the other comments say, this in theory would be great but C-Files can sometimes be missing information, such as mine. Especially could be more difficult for guard and reserves members as well.
Well, time will tell but we do know the VA rates symptoms. So having tinnitus would act as a forcing function for the VA to rate this disability under one of the diagnostic codes and most likely 6100 hearing loss with 10% for having tinnitus. As the proposed rating suggests. - Clay
Im tinnitus rated for 2 years, 0% hearing loss. Just now going for secondary for anxiety, depression, headaches. My problem is i live in a state with minimal transportation and i live on the other side of the state. We have no VA options, no public trans, etc. How am o supposed to go?
Is there a VFW that does shuttle service? Are there any vets in the vicinity near you who you could car pool with (I know hard to get appts coordinated). Maybe call VA Hosp and see if a virtual appt is possible option? Best to you.
As a VBA employee I can tell you all now this is not how we rate claims. Also, tinnitus is NOT “presumptive for loud noisy jobs.” Tinnitus and HL are based on your Duty MOS Noise Levels (high, moderate, low) seen on your DD 214. Please stop playing the guessing game with VA disability comp, read the 38 CFRs for yourself, and in this particular case, study the manual at M21-1,V.iii.2.B.1.b. Good luck to you all.
Tinnitus dx within 1yr is what makes it presumptive it’s not presumptive for “loud noisy jobs” and I didn’t say that because I’m not an idiot. These are also the proposed changes, so clearly the VA doesn’t rate tinnitus like this. Thanks for listening to respond. - Clay
Thanks again Brother! I had 2 c&p exams late December for lower back and mental health. Based on the questions the examiners were asking it seems to me the examiners are using those dbq(?)’s
Was denied hearing loss due to not severe enough, but got tinnitus. No other conditions appear to have caused tinnitus. Was able to get secondaries to tinnitus. Would have never got tinnitus if it's required to be connected to another service connection.
So I just had my 3rd C&P exam for Mennieres Disease, secondary to tinnitus. I had 3 C&P examiners agree I had Mennieres Disease. Well the Va just came back and denied it being service connected because I had no complaints in active duty of Mennieres. Yet it also went to say that all 3 examiners said I had it. Wtf is that about? It was a secondary for one and two the symptoms began in 2021. I got out the Army is 2012, so no shit I didn't have complaints in active duty.
The decision letter most likely denies direct and secondary SC. The VA is obligated to look at all avenues of SC. Feel free to post a redacted decision letter in our Facebook group. - Clay
What about being Rated for Tinnitus at 10% but was denied Hearing Loss because at the time Hearing Loss didn’t meet the test results threshold but now have hearing loss and have to wear hearing aids? Was wondering if can resubmit a new Hearing Loss claim or is it better to submit a Hearing Loss as a secondary claim to Tinnitus….
I could be misunderstanding but what I think the proposed changes mean Tinnitus can only be rated as a secondary condition. Not that it will be easier for secondaries to be connected to Tinnitus.
What if i have tinnitus and documented tinnitus but i dont have hearing loss. I might have had some drop in hearing since ive joined but it was normal on my last exam. I do have vertigo and documented as well (still Active Duty).
Document everything you can while you are active duty. File soon after you get out for everything documented. Even if your symptoms are mild and get rated for zero it can be upgraded later in life if your pain/symptoms get worse.
Hmmmm. I am rated 0% for hearing loss even tho I had a hole in my ear drum and had a tympanoplasty procedure done. That's where they sew another layer of skin over your eardrum. I've had 10% for tinnitus since 2009 and I just got hearing aids last year. I am planning on filing a claim for hearing loss which was where I got the 0% before. I think you need to have substantial hearing loss for the VA to give you a rating. The VA is tough. I've been dealing with them for 30 years and am sitting at 40%.
We get nothing for a hole in your eardrum.. I also have and the examiner knew because the pressure test gave that up..I have a hole because its a Ptube for all the sinus and ear infections I get
I have Tinnitus in my left ear, and I'm rated 10% for that condition. I have the symptoms, but this means I don't have the real exact Cause for it. Does this help get an approval for Mental Health easier, because I am service-connected for Tinnitus? I mean, what you're saying with this change is, I have the symptom of an undiagnosed Condition.
To clarify, tinnitus as a result of a neurological condition, like TBI, isn’t going to be common. Based on this comment, you would NOT fit that mold. Imagine, IED blast is loud. TBI/Tinnitus, other conditions seem likely. For most Veterans, looking at tinnitus either roped under hearing loss or the vertigo criteria. - Clay
Questions: I just received a 10% disability for tinnitus with a 0% for left ear hearing loss (my right ear is not too far behind). Besides monetary compensation is there anything that is available with regards to being eligible for VA care (e.g. hearing aids). What is the purpose of giving a 0% rating for loss of hearing and what is its implications with regards to benefits and compensation. If the hearing becomes worse over time, can I ask for an increase in rating? I now have an eye exam/review coming up for my double vision. The only evidence I have of the double vision is my personal physician confirming it. Nothing is in my military medical records. Can you give me your opinion as to why the VA is willing to do an eye exam? It seems that this would be just as hard to tie it to my service and thus deny it like the other conditions that I applied for. When I applied for the above conditions (in addition to several other which were denied) I forgot to list an occasional dizzy spell. Should I put in for another claim or use the appeal process and add it there?
Hypothetically speaking if these changes were in effect, you’d most likely be rated under 6100 for tinnitus at 10%. In essence, it’s not ‘going away’ just being changed by the DC. - Clay
Ratings are based off the Big 3. Your retirement status means nothing. For service connection, check this: ruclips.net/video/lGmPS5K4_Ic/видео.htmlsi=ZnXdFDux_o7FTfr5 - Clay
I “was” rated %70 PTSD and 0% TBI (my C&P examiner was so anti disability and it she didn’t try to hide it). I filled a claim for my back a year ago and just got the decision last week. Denied my back despite multiple back injuries in my active duty file and said my TBI was no longer a stand alone disability, it was combined with my PTSD and they gave me a %10 rating for TBI but since they combined them , the 70 beats the 10 so my %70 rating is unchanged. Feel like I just got blue falconed by the VA and if this passes and I try to appeal or file anything else my tinnitus will be rated using the new criteria and they will strip it away until I can service connect it to another disability. Hopefully I’m wrong but the feeling I get is that they are trying to associate multiple disabilities so they can combine them and call it pyramiding . Essentially a scam to cut down disability benefits going forward for anyone who files new and reduce the rating of anyone who appeals . I don’t know shit , that’s just my personal opinion.
Brother, a few things here… Back denial: I’d love to see your redacted decision and you can post this anonymously in TheCivDiv’s Facebook group and we would be able to give some insight. PTSD/TBI: 1: 70% involves a lot of the symptoms for TBI - very common to be roped together starting at the 70% mark. 2: The new criteria would most likely benefit your TBI and push that 70% to 100%. Tinnitus: Tinnitus isn’t going away and I know RUclips thumbnails and old dudes bashing the VA are saying the opposite. The most likely scenario for most NEW Veterans submitting tinnitus will be roped under 6100 diagnostic code for hearing loss with tinnitus at 10%. For those of us who already tinnitus, it will not be ‘taken away’ by any means. The VA might change the diagnostic code and potentially that 10% could be a higher rating especially for those with TBI-like symptoms such as vertigo. In that instance, pretty easy 30% under ‘dizziness’. Have faith…the system isn’t perfect - that’s a fact. However, the system works and these changes are in line with the most current medical literature and pathology of symptoms to conditions. - Clay
@@TheCivDiv I appreciate your detailed answer. I’m going to go with your explanation of all this because I definitely don’t fully understand the current rating system, much less any of the proposed changes. The combining two separate ratings into one felt sketchy. I haven’t been on Facebook in years but I will see if I can get logged back on and send it to you if you really want to check it out . I believe my new disability label is %70 PTSD with anxiety / TBI vs %70 PTSD and %0 TBI as it was before .
When the VA claims your hearing loss is not due to working on the aircraft carrier flight deck (non-service connected) then you can't receive 10% for tinnitus as a secondary for hearing loss. I have that exact issue. For whatever reason the VA says my hearing loss is not service connected but I received 10% for tinnitus service connected. I have hearing aids from the VA, proof of hearing loss over the years, and a NEXUS letter, I wasn't even rated at 0% for hearing loss. If the VA changes the tinnitus to a secondary, then I wouldn't even get 10%. Can the VA take that away or would I be grandfathered in? Would I be able to submit a secondary to tinnitus if there is a new rule change and if I did would they re-evaluate and take away since tinnitus is no longer a primary rating?
You’d be grandfathered in and the VA rates symptoms so they would most likely throw your tinnitus symptom under one of these codes. DCS are for VA rating purposes, gotta keep that in mind. - Clay
I'm in the same position and got 10% for tinnitus and awarded 0% for hearing loss, yet I have a Nexus letter from my Audiologist stating that I have hearing loss. I appealed and again denied even though i wear hearing aids issued by VA Health. Go figure?????
If you have your private ENT do a DBQ, make sure they annotate that you have occasional staggering with the vertigo, I did that and they went from 10% to 30%.. I had it SC with tinnitus
When the changes are made for Tinnitus, will I still be able to claim my secondary insomnia and Migraines or will the changes to Tinnitus put an end to that?
Tinnitus: Unless you're already compensated for hearing loss, correct? I'm at 40% for hearing loss and 10% for Tinnitus. Even with 50% for Migraines (I was blown up twice) they still will not make my multiple TBI's a stand alone.
By the VA not allowing tinnitus as standalone makes it harder to get. Now you have to have oneof the other issues to now be allowed to have tinnitus? Doesnt make sense. They should have added those extra codes to the existing situation.
Eh, the VA rates symptoms so if tinnitus is a symptom of these other conditions, it makes that DC easier to ‘get’. The VA doesn’t rate diagnosis, they rate the symptom. So hearing loss with tinnitus is 10% which pretty much what we have now except is says “Tinnitus”. - Clay
Thats great if the VA accepts your actual hearing loss according to their standards of hearing loss. I do have hearing loss, but the VA standards would say i do not, so then i cannot have tinnitus. Problem is, tinnitus is a standalone issue. Like i said, the VA should have simply added the newer codes to the mix.
The VA 'compensates' for symptoms. But in order to be rated to begin with, you need to have a diagnosis of a condition. You do not get compensated for symptoms unless they are the symptom of a condition that is rated as service connected or secondary to service connected Currently, the va compensates the symptom of phantom noises 10% as a symptom of the condition tinitus. A diagnosis of tinitus is very easy to get. (You basically just say you have it). The change will give you 10% for the symptom tinitus if it is a symptom of another diagnosed condition. This diagnosis will be harder to get than a diagnosis of 'tinitus' because they will require failing hearing tests, etc. This also means you will not be able to get secondaries to tinitus because tinitus is no longer a condition it is a symptom of another condition. THAT is the reason VA is making this change. To stop people from claiming tinitus, which is currwntly almost a guaranteed diagnosis and then tacking on secondaries to tinitus.
@@hizzle1885 That is right. I seen the writing on the wall and I filed my MH to Tinnitus because its a gateway for many secondary conditions. That's why the gatekeeper (VA) are closing the (Tinnitus) gate which open other gates.
So to make sure i understand what your saving. I currently have 10% for tinnitus and 0% for hearing loss. With the changes that has come into effect does that mean I can just request an increase for hearing loss and get at least another 10% and it will no longer be 0%
Not at all. You're already 10% so this doesn't effect you at all. This change, and the same for sleep apnea changes, really effects those that are claiming these conditions for the first time after these changes (assuming they remain the same) go into effect. Meaning...this change means diddly squat to you. - Clay
VA has a press release stating that changes ‘…will go into effect…’ we just don’t know when. I believe the PACT Act overshadowed this late in ‘22 so stand by. - Clay
@@TheCivDiv Thank you, Clay. I set up an intent to file disability claim back on May 4th. I got tinnitus in October 79. I never knew is was a disability I could claim. I have a lot that can be connected to it, at least from what I can see. Again thank you.
Great stuff...stumbled upon this. Thank you. I'm currently 10% rated for tinnitus. (20 yr NFO) Just learning about this secondary conditions thing, and going hmmmmm.....is this related to that? I'm def going to file for increased ratings. I'm currently drawing retirement pay. When they gave me the 10% rating, my retired pay was decreased by $165 with the 10% VA ($165) being given tax free - so essentially a wash(but a nice little tax free boost). My question: Would a 100% VA rating (or anything in between) simply replace my retirement pay with tax free pay? Thanks.
Currently 10% tinnitus and 0 hearing loss service connected . Just submitted ITF for sleep apnea, migraines , TBI and scar . Had in service head injury stitches to eyebrow and Los consciousness Do I claim headaches and sleep apnea secondary to tinnitus or TBI ?
My question is, do you have to claim a separate condition now in order to make tinnitus still be rated? I'm rated on tinnitus at 10% but not tied to another condition, so do I have to go through another approval process to keep my rating?
So I have a 10% rating for tinnitus. What exactly are the steps to go through to get upgraded? I understand that tinnitus also can cause insomnia which is my big problem.
Robots is maxed at 10% but for secondaries you need to learn about secondary claims. This video also has a cheat sheet: ruclips.net/video/lczsquEbQqY/видео.htmlsi=jQd9Q5P52_K3q7ka - Clay
Do you think I need a sleep study for secondary insomnia to Tinnitus (10), lumbrocervical strain (40), PTSD (30), left/right leg radiculopathy (40), all service connected. All of which contribute to insomnia.
I have 10% Tinnitus. I was not service connected for my hearing loss. This will suck for me if they take it away. Theres constant noise in avaiation and im completely dumbfounded that i wasnt awarded for hearing loss in 2012 when i got out. So if they remove my Tinnitus rating, my overall will drop. How is this good ??
I did my tinutis exam today they tested my hearing and asked what my job in navy which was machist mate in navy working in engine room! Not sure what to think about it
My tinnitus was denied do to my own admission of not wearing the hearing protection all the time. Keep in mind this is the same hearing protection which resulted in a 9 million dollar lawsuit
We ran across a letter where my dad noted that no protection was made available and it got a 2nd look and revision (He was in Korean War working outside on ships in the Navy). So perhaps go to them with the data on the hearing protection being a failed product (but you would not have had the info at the time, so there is that...but the outcome is the same). Worth a try. Good Luck!
My Tinnitus code is 6260 (10%) and my bilateral hearing loss code is 6100 (0%) I do have hearing aids they gave me. Does this mean these new changes are not applicable to me?
I have insomnia secondary to tinnitus. I dont know how it will be for somome in the future. Its best to get your claimnin while ist still rated this way. The VA never maks it easy for veterans 😂😂
I’ve filed for Tinnitus multiple times and have been denied service connection because I have no complaints in my med records. But this last time decision letter says Tinnitus related to TERA. Anyone know if I can/should keep battling this because I’m ready to give up on this one.
What happens if my tinnitus was as a result of a TBI I have been 80% IU Permanent and Total will they just raise me to 100% PT ? My effect date is 6-26-2002
What if you have hearing aids caused by blast in Iraq, tinnitus, and hearing loss is this something going to be automatic or does the veteran have to go in and request.and even wearinf my hearing aids it ruined my marrriage, because i could not hear certain words which caused arguments and led to divorce. Is this going to be lookwd at or is it a go down and file for a increase.
Hello thank you for the video I was waiting for a vidoe like this. But can I have migraines be added as a secondary to tinnitus. Been having ringing in ears since qualification range a couple months back and it cause a really bad headache and headache causes dizziness. Also would that only be a 10% rating
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
1-stop-shop for VA Benefits: CivDivonline.com
Here is how mental health will be rated under the new proposed criteria: ruclips.net/video/rFOwH0v1iN0/видео.htmlsi=RZB82WW3DxXPEI_M
FedReg for Tinnitus: www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/02/15/2022-02049/schedule-for-rating-disabilities-ear-nose-throat-and-audiology-disabilities-special-provisions
Am I just now realizing the cognition piece isn't sized correctly...yes.
Am I just now realizing I didn't cut the end...also yes.
- Clay
Question then I have timnitus with bilateral hearing loss which require hearing aids. Hearing aids are suppose help drown out the ringing I will need to visit the audiologist hearing aids not drowning out the ringing. And still while wearing hearing aids one reason my ex wife and me divorced. Tried another relationship and did not go well. Fighting all the time why some words. I can not hear especially if the person is speaking so low drives me crazy. Which cause me to go off the.deep end. So I guess I am hearing you say see the audiologist then I have see a psychiatrist to be examined again right is that what your saying. I have tinnutiis rated at 10 and hearing loss with zero but I have hearing aids which are really not doing what the suppose to do. So is this going to rates as one or will they add because I wear hearing aids you where not very clear in your pod cast. Any info there would be helpful. And u do experience dizziness when operating a lawnmower. So I guess it's back to the audiologist so she check to see if conditions have worsened.
3:54 The truth about tinnitus, you should have claimed meniere's disease
Please note that you will receive a separate letter in the near futur regarding your dependency claim.
Your Benefit Information:
•
Evaluation of meniere's disease (previously rated as vertigo,
tinnitus, and left hearing loss), which is currently 30 percent disabling, is increased to 100 percent effective May 30, 2024. Basic eligibility to Dependents' Educational Assistance based permanent and total disability status is established from May 3
2024.
•
I applied for vertigo secondary to my tinnitus last year. Both the VA audiologist and the VA ENT told me that tinnitus could not cause vertigo, even though the only time it ever happens is when my tinnitus flares up, and they are absolutely connected. It never happens without a tinnitus flare up immediately prior. Of course the VA ENT had no interest in finding what the mysterious source of this issue was. I filed for it anyway. Wrote a personal statement, and spoke in great detail about it to the C&P examiner (who was an NP). You could tell she didn't feel comfortable making decisions about that issue, but despite all that, I was approved for vertigo under the rating code for Meniere's syndrome.
Nurse Practioner
I have the same issue, never could get the vertigo claim.
Told by VA doctor that you cannot trust anything a VA doctor says. He said to take what they say with a gain of salt.
How long after having tinnitus service connected did you file for the vertigo claim?
@@Wheelz44 9 years. I was rated for tinnitus in 2014. I was pretty surprised they granted it to be honest. The ENT told me it wasn't possible, but also didn't care to spend any time on figuring out what else could cause it. The vertigo I experience developed as the tinnitus worsened over time.
I never knew my tinnitus could cause vertigo. I have balance issues and never even thought to associate the two. So much left on the table
In your case, it’s most likely going to be ‘easier’ to be rated under dizziness DC with a 10 or 30% rating.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Definitely will pursue this and acquire a nexus letter to bolster my case.
Wait a second!!!! One time, i told my foxy several months so that one morning when i got up, i had balancing issues!!!! It scared me!!!! My doctor said that maybe i got out of bed too fast!!!!
Vertigo got so bad I spent a week in the hospital blind. Have never been so scared. The doc said tinnitus causes vertigo and sometimes can cause temporary blindness. It was a week of being terrified. When it started to wear off I have never been so relived. Also causes migraines and head aches
@@SpaceRanger187I don't want to scare you...but I have a friend that went temporarily blind and it was very serious...C word
Tinnitus is currently presumptive for loud, noisy jobs. Taking anything always from "presumption" is not good for the vet.
The VA rates symptoms, not the diagnosis. Hypothetical - If you get out of service next year and you have tinnitus. Instead of 10% for tinnitus, that could very likely be a 30 for dizziness, 30/50 for migraines, hearing loss at 10 (minimum), and then severe cases would consider TBI and MH.
- Clay
Within a year of getting out it’s presumptive, harder for vets that have been out 10+ years.
@@TheCivDiv or currently it could be 30 for dizziness, 30/50 for migraines, hearing loss at 10 (minimum), AND 10 % for tinnitus.
@@TheCivDiv right, this benefits BDD and folk with paper trail. Most soldiers don't have a good paper trail to establish S/C and they, if like me, don't file until years or 10+ years down the line. I was given tinnitus cuz I'm infantry, got it this year, got out in 2013.
@@TJW66 right, it ultimately greatly benefits the VA since 99% of Vets are outside of the 1 year presumptive period.
US ARMY 1975-1979....You have GOLD VALUE INFO!!! ur best of the best...!!!!!
Hey thanks!!! And TYFYS OG!
- Clay
Thank YOU Mr. Simms AGAIN for taking time out of your day to let us veterans know about this vitally important information!!!
Thank you...I am in the initial stages of filing my Tinnitus claim and this is quite helpful!
Awesome. Tinnitus is an ‘easy’ claim given you donNOT have competing evidence.
- Clay
Thank you for this informative uplifting video. After being out 40 years i applied just received 10% TBI in service skull fracture 30% post concussion head aches 0% hearing 10% tinnitus
In about 5mins a video will post sharing a template for migraines and that can be useful for you.
- Clay
I put in for both tinnitus and hearing loss. Was awarded 10% for Tinnitus, but nothing for hearing loss even though I was issued hearing aids.
Are you SC for hearing loss? Most common rating we see is 0%
- Clay
Was told no SC for hearing loss
Same I got decline SC. even though on my award letter say I have favorable finding which is my job expose to high noises.
You appeal? or what the process to go back and ask for a change?
I have the same
I got 10% for tinnitus and went the MH route do to not sleeping and that made a problem with my job ( I worked at the VA in community care) It was getting harder day by day to help my guys out due to this problem and causes problems at home. After 21/2 yrs I was awarded 30% for mood depression and anxiety. I don't how the new way will work be pay attention to your mood and anxiety. God Bless to all.
I have 10% Tinnitus rating. Im currently waiting for next steps from the VA for C&P exams. I am currently waiting for Insomnia and Headaches/Migraines secondary to Tinnitus exams! Thank you for your videos!
did you meet with your provider about tinnitus?
@@joypressley4821 I did
Don't forget depression.
Me C&P today for both.
How do I claim insomnia and anxiety/depression secondary to tinnitus and VA told me I need an exam from civilian doctor before I can file a claim. Can you advise me.
Great review of the proposed tinnitus change. You always seem to be under great control when you explain your idea on changes that may occur. Listening to your view on this topic should help some people take a deep breath and breath out. This change may not be as bad as what some people though it would be. Time will tell. Great job.
This x3000 and thank you very much! Time will tell.
- Clay
Most underated youtuber and no fear click bait like the others
Answered my my question with his first breath.
I was in the Marine Corps from 68-70, and in Vietnam. I was a grunt, and at Charlie 2, I was about 20 - 25 yards from the 105 mm, and the 175 mm. I had a ping in my ear, and never realised it was tinnitus until 2018. There's a good reason why the military did not give physical exams when people left the military.
Even though I don’t always agree with the young “The Civ Div” I am subscribe to his channel and recommend to others his very informative,channel.
This gentleman is very conscientious and honest, along with the excellent information that he brings to veterans and their loved ones.
I genuinely appreciate that and thank you very much. At the end of the day, we all want Veterans to be properly rated.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv but don’t forget the planet of the apes in that last scene. Lol.
Just throwing mud on the wall here, taking 10% for tinnitus and expanding into mental health disorder ratings, wouldn't this be a move that could put us in the "not stable enough to own a firearm" category? It's always helpful to be suspicious of the government when they change things.
No. Mental health ratings have nothing to do with veterans owning guns.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Yet. The ATF was found to bar veterans who had financial assistance already trying to claim that this made them incompetent.
@@TheCivDiv Have you ever bought a gun? There is a mental health question on the form you have to fill out in order to buy a gun.
@@Blueknight1960 You need to work on your reading comprehension.
"Mental health ratings", again, "ratings", your VA rating(s), have nothing to do with your ability to purchase a firearm.
Your actual mental history and capacity do.
If you are mentally unstable, and have been involuntarily committed by a court, you can not own a firearm legally. There is an exception made for being admitted for observation.
Again, your VA rating has nothing to do with this, especially something as silly as secondary ratings adjacent to tinnitus.
Again, you have to be formally adjudicated as "mentally incompetent".
That was my first thought as well
Thanks Clay you’re always solid in your work.
Thanks for clarifying! Good info🙌
Dear ol dad passed away 2021. 20 Navy vet who enlisted doing communications/flags during Korean War, so exposed to heavy guns early on. Hearing damaged to point eventually deaf in one ear. Tinitus.Eventually blind in one eye. Had a history of kidney stones in his Navy years. Also, Hypertension most adult life with late life AFib. Psoriatic Arthritis throughout his body. Got a pacemaker. Had a replacement joint in his shoulder (so a couple of serious surgeries which put him under anesthesia. Last 15 years he developed Dementia. Had a couple of falls so maybe some mini strokes, too. No autopsy so not 100% certain but likely he passed away with Alz. He had great pain and self medicated using 6 pack of beer nightly for a LONG TIME. Eventually, he was overweight, didn't like it. Put himself on a diet, did calisthenics. Lost the weight. Maintained weight loss but continued to consume high Glucose Index foods. While he did make smoothies with home grown fruits and had big salads including homegrown veggies, by and large he consumed a very traditional SAD diet. Took meds. Had many appointments. Around this time he was still gardening and did have a few "little" falls on the property. Maybe small strokes which were not evaluated as he did not talk about the falls until days later when he was "better". Ultimately he passed in a nursing home as the family was unable to care for him once incontinence started. We were fortunate his experience with Alz didn't impact his anger emotions but he did need an anti anxiety med which NH gave him. I am giving you a thumb nail sketch, and still haven't really finished mourning for him. I am now learning more about damaged mitochondria being at the base of sleep apnea and tinnitus. He was on oxygen during hospital stays but not CPAP, it was never recommended nor a sleep study by the VA despite lifetime of snoring. Both tinnitus and sleep apnea area driven by issues in the brain and negatively impact the mitochondria. IF any of this sounds like you, please look into supporting the health of your mitochondria. Dad passed with 100% disability which was in place about 10 years before he passed. I know I've kinda co=opted a VA claims channel comment section so I will add one more thing: look into Dr. Greger and Dr. Dylan Petkus who each have channels here in YT with useful free research based education for the public. Own your health and well being AND pursue your insurance coverages promised to you. Thank you for reading.
I am rated for Tinnitus. Thanks for the breakdown.
Thank YOU!
- Clay
Thanks for keeping up with the flow of information as it comes in.
A 1000 thank you's for this video!
Great message Junius 👏🏾👏🏾
I would say "not applicable" for some of the tasks I can't perform due to other disabilities - not mental health. Still got the ringing in the ears - and other sounds - along with vertigo, or dizziness increasing risk of falling , especially since my ability to walk, or even stand up, is already heavily challenged.
THANK YOU FOR BEING A MEMBER!!!
Vertigo/dizziness under this change would bring your 10% tinnitus to a 10/30%.
- Clay
Woof, I am sorry to read about your issues.
8@@TheCivDivpi y6
To me tinnitus is a hearing impairment/ loss. You could have hearing loss without tinnitus but having tinnitus alone is like having hearing impairment/ loss in a different form.
That’s exactly what the VA is saying in the language right below what I read about 6100 being rated at 10%. Essentially, it’s not going away.
- Clay
I just got 10% for tinnitus but got denied for hearing loss even though exam showed I had hear lost that requires a hearing aid.
@@donbelenger817 Don, I'm in the same position and got 10% for tinnitus and awarded 0% for hearing loss yet I have a Nexus letter from my Audiologist stating that I show hearing loss. I appealed and again denied even though i wear hearing aids issued by VA Health. Go figure?????
My husband killed him self in November 😢he also had the ringing in his ears for years since he has been gone I found a hand written letter telling the va they have destroyed his life and had done nothing I don't know what the reason for him taking his life I'm going through cancer since April of 2023 could have been a combination I haven't been able to feel like it was just to much to go through when I finally was able to open the door and start looking for anything that could help me understand this process of income 😢😢😢😢not sure where to began with what forms or what I may need to get help started iv have death certificate, marriage license, letter telling the va they ruined his life I'm just wanting to get some advice on maybe following the right form
Can you believe my 94 year old mom has the tenacity of a bull dog and hunts down info the old school way...well she does. I am copying your post and emailing it to her. If she can give you any useful advice on navigating the VA or others I will come back here and add a comment. I am sorry that I am only just seeing this now 4 months after you were here. But I am confident she will have info that will help, I can only hope you will see these notes. Take Care
My mom's reply to you is seek out your local Disabled Vets office. It maybe that your VA hospital can share that info with you or it may be a simple google search. My best to you in your recovery.
Hey CD this is a good video. Very understandable with your explanation. I'll be able to improve my percentage. Can't wait till it's active.
Hey thanks! And thank you for commenting.
- Clay
Ive had sleeping problems in the corps and after i got out to present day. My girlfriend says she has to tap me and move away till this day because i wake up on 100% and ready to go. The va denied my sleeping issues because it wasn't connected because i never got help while in service. We are always told to suck it up which we all did. The issue is that it screws us in the long run. I wake up for no reason and still wake up exhausted
Can you get a sleep study somewhere? I had same experience and it was sleep apnea. I had 40 apneas/hour all NIGHT LONG. Until my body would say WAKE UP BOZO, and when I woke I thought "Oh, I must have to go to the loo"...So every night stopping breathing, waking up, going to loo...Then get up and parent/drive/ go to job, etc. Some folks can get off CPAP eventually, but when you need it you NEED it. I wish the best to you.
I've never suspected vertigo was tinnitus connected. Thank you for this information.
It can be and if/when these changes go into effect, it’ll be easier for a higher rating.
- Clay
Just got my denial letter today for tinnitus. I’m a 12M firefighter that was deployed to Iraq where we experienced a large explosion. I have ringing, dizziness, nausea everyday. My C&P examiner wrote out that she does not think it was from tinnitus and may be something else, so I got declined!?!?
What you describe would have had to been documented. That would be easy to overturn with a Higher Level Review. if you have no documentation, then get it and submit as a Supplemental Claim.
As a fire fighter, look into the new legal claim for those exposed to whatever is used to put out fires.
Clay, as you know, I'm already 100% TDIU. However, I had a C&P exam in December 2023, and a Tinnitus and Hearing exam January 5th. I've sent for the DBQs because no decision yet. My question is this: IF the VA rates me 10% on each, it likely won't affect my pay, but if the bill passes (which is likely) would there be an automatic increase?
Not automatic by any means but if you’re at the 100% mark, irrelevant unless you’d be looking at access to SMCs.
- Clay
Greetings, new here, Marine Vet. I heard you mention that you recommend Radiculopathy rather than Bilateral Sciatica. Was just wondering why. I have pain in the left buttocks and left leg rather than the right. Thank you
Nice shirt bro and thanks for the good info
Join or get Stacked
or CivDiv 😂 both are pretty cool
- Clay
How are these proposed changes being distributed and shared with Veterans? I had no prior knowledge of this and since this affects all Veterans, I feel that there is an intentional communications gap that grows even further between the VA and the Veteran community. The VA can call, text, and mail you an appointment reminder; however, they don't spread the word about any proposed changes via VSOs, etc. Where is the documentation that shows these proposed changes are in line with any civilian medical organization's changes to symptomology, diagnosis, and impact on earning capacity?? These "changes" align with the VA bureaucrat's desires to avoid paying our well-deserved benefits. No more and no less!
Nah bro gotta give it to illegal immigrants
Problem with cognitive secondary is I can't turn off the ear ringing by taking a cognitive test get a score and then turn on ear ringing and get an another score and show a psychiatrist the difference results.
I don’t know why you bring TBI into the discussion when you were talking about tinnitus. I didn’t see anything that you were reading that showed TBI. It appeared that the things that you were talking about are things that could be caused by tinnitus, such as not being able to concentrate while you’re workingdue to the ringing in your ear. That wouldn’t be associated with TBI, but would be caused by tinnitus. Please explain.
The rating DCs
- Clay
Tinnitus is the result of damage to cochlea hairs usually caused by high frequency noise typical of working around active jet aircraft. Damage occurs however cochlea hairs can absorb high frequency and temporary heal themselves (reason why military audiograms are taken 15 hours after high frequency exposure).
In my case VBA allowed for tinnitus and right ear hearing loss due to military but denied the left (though it’s 7 inches from my right). My VA advocate printed 206 pages of my medical record and I found where the audiogram numbers were transcribed wrong (took my 92 hearing test and applied it to separation). Made a spread sheet showing history from 80-93 and submitted it with my rebuttal. Thankfully VBA reversed their decision and May both ears service related.
Listen up Veterans no one from the VA is going to help you unless you do the heavy lift. I got lucky in that my advocate guided me and printed out my record.
Lol nice freeze frame towards the ending. 🎉
Oopsies
- Clay
I was thinking about trying to get anxiety disorder secondary to tinnutis, but already have mild sleep apnea as a secondary and feel i was lucky on that. I scared if I ask for new claim with tinnitus they might talk away the sleep apnea if these proposals go through
No they won’t and if YOUR tinnitus causes YOUR anxiety, and you have the evidence, I’d submit.
- Clay
Great info!
I’m trying to get better educated on how to get my benefits.
How do veterans get their C file?
I was an aviation electronics tech aircraft engine noise so flight line … they just denied my claim again… ???
Gotta see the decision letter…feel free to join our Facebook group and post anonymously
- Clay
I ETS in May and have ring in the ears that causes head aches, but I do not have anything link to causing my tinnitus which means that I will not only not get rated for tinnitus, but my head aches are going to be rated as non survice connected. The people already rated are fine but me and all future service members are being screwed.
Wouldn't this be more difficult to prove for folks that waited to get a rating and maybnot have a medical diagnosis or record in their service treatment record? Like some of the other comments say, this in theory would be great but C-Files can sometimes be missing information, such as mine. Especially could be more difficult for guard and reserves members as well.
Well, time will tell but we do know the VA rates symptoms. So having tinnitus would act as a forcing function for the VA to rate this disability under one of the diagnostic codes and most likely 6100 hearing loss with 10% for having tinnitus. As the proposed rating suggests.
- Clay
Im tinnitus rated for 2 years, 0% hearing loss. Just now going for secondary for anxiety, depression, headaches. My problem is i live in a state with minimal transportation and i live on the other side of the state. We have no VA options, no public trans, etc. How am o supposed to go?
Is there a VFW that does shuttle service? Are there any vets in the vicinity near you who you could car pool with (I know hard to get appts coordinated). Maybe call VA Hosp and see if a virtual appt is possible option? Best to you.
As a VBA employee I can tell you all now this is not how we rate claims. Also, tinnitus is NOT “presumptive for loud noisy jobs.” Tinnitus and HL are based on your Duty MOS Noise Levels (high, moderate, low) seen on your DD 214. Please stop playing the guessing game with VA disability comp, read the 38 CFRs for yourself, and in this particular case, study the manual at M21-1,V.iii.2.B.1.b. Good luck to you all.
Tinnitus dx within 1yr is what makes it presumptive it’s not presumptive for “loud noisy jobs” and I didn’t say that because I’m not an idiot. These are also the proposed changes, so clearly the VA doesn’t rate tinnitus like this. Thanks for listening to respond.
- Clay
I just got denied dizziness secondary to tinnitus. I had a diagnosis for dizziness and still got denied.
Am i missing something?
Thanks again Brother!
I had 2 c&p exams late December for lower back and mental health. Based on the questions the examiners were asking it seems to me the examiners are using those dbq(?)’s
They will absolutely be using those DBQs.
- Clay
Was denied hearing loss due to not severe enough, but got tinnitus. No other conditions appear to have caused tinnitus. Was able to get secondaries to tinnitus. Would have never got tinnitus if it's required to be connected to another service connection.
🤦🏻♂️ it’s not required to be connected…the VA rates SYMPTOMS not the diagnosis.
- Clay
What would be Level 3 domains that are currenlty in the 70% area ?
Here: ruclips.net/video/rFOwH0v1iN0/видео.htmlsi=WZw0Ll7EdbuIqdJA
- Clay
So I just had my 3rd C&P exam for Mennieres Disease, secondary to tinnitus. I had 3 C&P examiners agree I had Mennieres Disease.
Well the Va just came back and denied it being service connected because I had no complaints in active duty of Mennieres. Yet it also went to say that all 3 examiners said I had it. Wtf is that about? It was a secondary for one and two the symptoms began in 2021. I got out the Army is 2012, so no shit I didn't have complaints in active duty.
The decision letter most likely denies direct and secondary SC. The VA is obligated to look at all avenues of SC. Feel free to post a redacted decision letter in our Facebook group.
- Clay
These mfers will do anything to deny your claim, it’s a power trip game with this bunch of idiots.
What about being Rated for Tinnitus at 10% but was denied Hearing Loss because at the time Hearing Loss didn’t meet the test results threshold but now have hearing loss and have to wear hearing aids? Was wondering if can resubmit a new Hearing Loss claim or is it better to submit a Hearing Loss as a secondary claim to Tinnitus….
Hard to say without looking at your evidence but I’m leaning towards supplemental claim. Keep in mind I’m speculating.
- Clay
I could be misunderstanding but what I think the proposed changes mean Tinnitus can only be rated as a secondary condition. Not that it will be easier for secondaries to be connected to Tinnitus.
They won’t be secondaries as the VA rates symptoms, not diagnosis.
- Clay
When will the changes be made ?
So if I have vertigo, I also have tinnitus, can I file a claim with the VA c&p for vertigo?
What if i have tinnitus and documented tinnitus but i dont have hearing loss. I might have had some drop in hearing since ive joined but it was normal on my last exam. I do have vertigo and documented as well (still Active Duty).
IF this goes into effect prior to you filing, the VA rates symptoms not diagnosis.
- Clay
Document everything you can while you are active duty. File soon after you get out for everything documented. Even if your symptoms are mild and get rated for zero it can be upgraded later in life if your pain/symptoms get worse.
The way you teach is Awesome. Thank you my brothers 🙏
Hey thanks! I appreciate this and I’m a training instructor for my real job.
- Clay
Hmmmm. I am rated 0% for hearing loss even tho I had a hole in my ear drum and had a tympanoplasty procedure done. That's where they sew another layer of skin over your eardrum. I've had 10% for tinnitus since 2009 and I just got hearing aids last year. I am planning on filing a claim for hearing loss which was where I got the 0% before. I think you need to have substantial hearing loss for the VA to give you a rating. The VA is tough. I've been dealing with them for 30 years and am sitting at 40%.
Definitely file for an increase for hearing loss.
- Clay
We get nothing for a hole in your eardrum.. I also have and the examiner knew because the pressure test gave that up..I have a hole because its a Ptube for all the sinus and ear infections I get
This seems a lot like a barrack lawyer to me. Im skeptical No way tinnitus is getting you out of a level 1 on any of the tbi levels.
Not tinnitus, but having TBI and of course tinnitus and TBI won’t be common.
- Clay
I have Tinnitus in my left ear, and I'm rated 10% for that condition. I have the symptoms, but this means I don't have the real exact Cause for it. Does this help get an approval for Mental Health easier, because I am service-connected for Tinnitus? I mean, what you're saying with this change is, I have the symptom of an undiagnosed Condition.
To clarify, tinnitus as a result of a neurological condition, like TBI, isn’t going to be common. Based on this comment, you would NOT fit that mold. Imagine, IED blast is loud. TBI/Tinnitus, other conditions seem likely.
For most Veterans, looking at tinnitus either roped under hearing loss or the vertigo criteria.
- Clay
Questions:
I just received a 10% disability for tinnitus with a 0% for left ear hearing loss (my right ear is not too far behind). Besides monetary compensation is there anything that is available with regards to being eligible for VA care (e.g. hearing aids).
What is the purpose of giving a 0% rating for loss of hearing and what is its implications with regards to benefits and compensation.
If the hearing becomes worse over time, can I ask for an increase in rating?
I now have an eye exam/review coming up for my double vision. The only evidence I have of the double vision is my personal physician confirming it. Nothing is in my military medical records. Can you give me your opinion as to why the VA is willing to do an eye exam? It seems that this would be just as hard to tie it to my service and thus deny it like the other conditions that I applied for.
When I applied for the above conditions (in addition to several other which were denied) I forgot to list an occasional dizzy spell. Should I put in for another claim or use the appeal process and add it there?
The 10% for tinnitus will get you hearing aids from the VA at no cost. Had my eval yesterday.
What if I have tinnitus but not hearing loss
Hypothetically speaking if these changes were in effect, you’d most likely be rated under 6100 for tinnitus at 10%. In essence, it’s not ‘going away’ just being changed by the DC.
- Clay
what if you are retired, disabled..do they consider you for any rating or is it a rating because of loss of earning capacity only?
Ratings are based off the Big 3. Your retirement status means nothing. For service connection, check this: ruclips.net/video/lGmPS5K4_Ic/видео.htmlsi=ZnXdFDux_o7FTfr5
- Clay
I “was” rated %70 PTSD and 0% TBI (my C&P examiner was so anti disability and it she didn’t try to hide it). I filled a claim for my back a year ago and just got the decision last week. Denied my back despite multiple back injuries in my active duty file and said my TBI was no longer a stand alone disability, it was combined with my PTSD and they gave me a %10 rating for TBI but since they combined them , the 70 beats the 10 so my %70 rating is unchanged. Feel like I just got blue falconed by the VA and if this passes and I try to appeal or file anything else my tinnitus will be rated using the new criteria and they will strip it away until I can service connect it to another disability. Hopefully I’m wrong but the feeling I get is that they are trying to associate multiple disabilities so they can combine them and call it pyramiding . Essentially a scam to cut down disability benefits going forward for anyone who files new and reduce the rating of anyone who appeals . I don’t know shit , that’s just my personal opinion.
Brother, a few things here…
Back denial: I’d love to see your redacted decision and you can post this anonymously in TheCivDiv’s Facebook group and we would be able to give some insight.
PTSD/TBI:
1: 70% involves a lot of the symptoms for TBI - very common to be roped together starting at the 70% mark.
2: The new criteria would most likely benefit your TBI and push that 70% to 100%.
Tinnitus: Tinnitus isn’t going away and I know RUclips thumbnails and old dudes bashing the VA are saying the opposite. The most likely scenario for most NEW Veterans submitting tinnitus will be roped under 6100 diagnostic code for hearing loss with tinnitus at 10%. For those of us who already tinnitus, it will not be ‘taken away’ by any means. The VA might change the diagnostic code and potentially that 10% could be a higher rating especially for those with TBI-like symptoms such as vertigo. In that instance, pretty easy 30% under ‘dizziness’.
Have faith…the system isn’t perfect - that’s a fact. However, the system works and these changes are in line with the most current medical literature and pathology of symptoms to conditions.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv I appreciate your detailed answer. I’m going to go with your explanation of all this because I definitely don’t fully understand the current rating system, much less any of the proposed changes. The combining two separate ratings into one felt sketchy. I haven’t been on Facebook in years but I will see if I can get logged back on and send it to you if you really want to check it out . I believe my new disability label is %70 PTSD with anxiety / TBI vs %70 PTSD and %0 TBI as it was before .
When the VA claims your hearing loss is not due to working on the aircraft carrier flight deck (non-service connected) then you can't receive 10% for tinnitus as a secondary for hearing loss. I have that exact issue. For whatever reason the VA says my hearing loss is not service connected but I received 10% for tinnitus service connected. I have hearing aids from the VA, proof of hearing loss over the years, and a NEXUS letter, I wasn't even rated at 0% for hearing loss. If the VA changes the tinnitus to a secondary, then I wouldn't even get 10%. Can the VA take that away or would I be grandfathered in? Would I be able to submit a secondary to tinnitus if there is a new rule change and if I did would they re-evaluate and take away since tinnitus is no longer a primary rating?
You’d be grandfathered in and the VA rates symptoms so they would most likely throw your tinnitus symptom under one of these codes. DCS are for VA rating purposes, gotta keep that in mind.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Thanks Clay...
I'm in the same position and got 10% for tinnitus and awarded 0% for hearing loss, yet I have a Nexus letter from my Audiologist stating that I have hearing loss. I appealed and again denied even though i wear hearing aids issued by VA Health. Go figure?????
0% means SC and you’ll need to hit the higher criteria for a higher rating. 0% for hearing loss is also the most common
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv what does SC mean?
If you have your private ENT do a DBQ, make sure they annotate that you have occasional staggering with the vertigo, I did that and they went from 10% to 30%.. I had it SC with tinnitus
When the changes are made for Tinnitus, will I still be able to claim my secondary insomnia and Migraines or will the changes to Tinnitus put an end to that?
Tinnitus: Unless you're already compensated for hearing loss, correct? I'm at 40% for hearing loss and 10% for Tinnitus. Even with 50% for Migraines (I was blown up twice) they still will not make my multiple TBI's a stand alone.
You’re good and this really doesn’t apply to your case. Not common to have a decent rating for hearing loss.
- Clay
Thank very informative.
By the VA not allowing tinnitus as standalone makes it harder to get. Now you have to have oneof the other issues to now be allowed to have tinnitus? Doesnt make sense. They should have added those extra codes to the existing situation.
Eh, the VA rates symptoms so if tinnitus is a symptom of these other conditions, it makes that DC easier to ‘get’. The VA doesn’t rate diagnosis, they rate the symptom. So hearing loss with tinnitus is 10% which pretty much what we have now except is says “Tinnitus”.
- Clay
Thats great if the VA accepts your actual hearing loss according to their standards of hearing loss. I do have hearing loss, but the VA standards would say i do not, so then i cannot have tinnitus. Problem is, tinnitus is a standalone issue. Like i said, the VA should have simply added the newer codes to the mix.
The VA 'compensates' for symptoms. But in order to be rated to begin with, you need to have a diagnosis of a condition. You do not get compensated for symptoms unless they are the symptom of a condition that is rated as service connected or secondary to service connected
Currently, the va compensates the symptom of phantom noises 10% as a symptom of the condition tinitus. A diagnosis of tinitus is very easy to get. (You basically just say you have it).
The change will give you 10% for the symptom tinitus if it is a symptom of another diagnosed condition. This diagnosis will be harder to get than a diagnosis of 'tinitus' because they will require failing hearing tests, etc.
This also means you will not be able to get secondaries to tinitus because tinitus is no longer a condition it is a symptom of another condition.
THAT is the reason VA is making this change. To stop people from claiming tinitus, which is currwntly almost a guaranteed diagnosis and then tacking on secondaries to tinitus.
@@hizzle1885 That is right. I seen the writing on the wall and I filed my MH to Tinnitus because its a gateway for many secondary conditions. That's why the gatekeeper (VA) are closing the (Tinnitus) gate which open other gates.
SMH@@TheCivDiv
How do I save this? This is sooooo me!!! Please send me a link. I don’t know how to return to this. I have a C&P exam coming up soon!
So to make sure i understand what your saving. I currently have 10% for tinnitus and 0% for hearing loss. With the changes that has come into effect does that mean I can just request an increase for hearing loss and get at least another 10% and it will no longer be 0%
Not at all. You're already 10% so this doesn't effect you at all. This change, and the same for sleep apnea changes, really effects those that are claiming these conditions for the first time after these changes (assuming they remain the same) go into effect. Meaning...this change means diddly squat to you.
- Clay
How about if you got your tinnitus and hearing loss because of cancer?
I have 10% for tinnitus and 0% SC hearing loss requiring hearing aids. How do these changes affect me?
First, I’d probably look at an increase for your hearing loss. 2nd, it won’t unless you have dizziness.
- Clay
I would get 6204 as I have SCDS. Is this only if this passes and not just proposed?
VA has a press release stating that changes ‘…will go into effect…’ we just don’t know when. I believe the PACT Act overshadowed this late in ‘22 so stand by.
- Clay
What is the effective date for the tinnitus changes?
There isn’t one yet
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Thank you, Clay. I set up an intent to file disability claim back on May 4th. I got tinnitus in October 79. I never knew is was a disability I could claim. I have a lot that can be connected to it, at least from what I can see. Again thank you.
Great stuff...stumbled upon this. Thank you. I'm currently 10% rated for tinnitus. (20 yr NFO) Just learning about this secondary conditions thing, and going hmmmmm.....is this related to that? I'm def going to file for increased ratings. I'm currently drawing retirement pay. When they gave me the 10% rating, my retired pay was decreased by $165 with the 10% VA ($165) being given tax free - so essentially a wash(but a nice little tax free boost). My question: Would a 100% VA rating (or anything in between) simply replace my retirement pay with tax free pay? Thanks.
Currently 10% tinnitus and 0 hearing loss service connected . Just submitted ITF for sleep apnea, migraines , TBI and scar . Had in service head injury stitches to eyebrow and Los consciousness
Do
I claim headaches and sleep apnea secondary to tinnitus or TBI ?
TBI migraines. OSA what does your evidence say?
- Clay
@@TheCivDivin process of sleep apnea study. Also tinnitus causes insomnia . Good job on your videos by the way
My question is, do you have to claim a separate condition now in order to make tinnitus still be rated? I'm rated on tinnitus at 10% but not tied to another condition, so do I have to go through another approval process to keep my rating?
Nope, you’re good.
- Clay
So I have a 10% rating for tinnitus. What exactly are the steps to go through to get upgraded? I understand that tinnitus also can cause insomnia which is my big problem.
Robots is maxed at 10% but for secondaries you need to learn about secondary claims. This video also has a cheat sheet: ruclips.net/video/lczsquEbQqY/видео.htmlsi=jQd9Q5P52_K3q7ka
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Not sure what you mean about "robots" but thanks for the link.
Do you think I need a sleep study for secondary insomnia to Tinnitus (10), lumbrocervical strain (40), PTSD (30), left/right leg radiculopathy (40), all service connected. All of which contribute to insomnia.
I have 10% Tinnitus. I was not service connected for my hearing loss. This will suck for me if they take it away. Theres constant noise in avaiation and im completely dumbfounded that i wasnt awarded for hearing loss in 2012 when i got out. So if they remove my Tinnitus rating, my overall will drop. How is this good ??
If a vet is not happy with their c&p exam write up what are the steps to take to request another c&p exam with additional testing?
I did my tinutis exam today they tested my hearing and asked what my job in navy which was machist mate in navy working in engine room! Not sure what to think about it
Sounds like... Going forward. If u claim any hearing issues, old tinnitus SC approved will be looked at and can be pulled out of your claim
My tinnitus was denied do to my own admission of not wearing the hearing protection all the time. Keep in mind this is the same hearing protection which resulted in a 9 million dollar lawsuit
We ran across a letter where my dad noted that no protection was made available and it got a 2nd look and revision (He was in Korean War working outside on ships in the Navy). So perhaps go to them with the data on the hearing protection being a failed product (but you would not have had the info at the time, so there is that...but the outcome is the same). Worth a try. Good Luck!
How about the CPAP and Sleep apnea???
Covered that here: ruclips.net/video/Fn5ExtLFA-o/видео.htmlsi=kf6JKFcRRsaTnc1C
- Clay
Thanks good info
My Tinnitus code is 6260 (10%) and my bilateral hearing loss code is 6100 (0%) I do have hearing aids they gave me. Does this mean these new changes are not applicable to me?
You’ll be grandfathered in and in the event you could receive a higher rating, now you’re informed.
- Clay
Is TBI under the same umbrella as Depression?
It could be…it could also be separate. Depends if your TBI symptoms differ.
- Clay
@@TheCivDiv Gotcha. Thanks!!
I have insomnia secondary to tinnitus. I dont know how it will be for somome in the future. Its best to get your claimnin while ist still rated this way. The VA never maks it easy for veterans 😂😂
Can I still claim secondaires, like anxiety and depression.
Given you have the evidence, yes.
- Clay
I’ve filed for Tinnitus multiple times and have been denied service connection because I have no complaints in my med records. But this last time decision letter says Tinnitus related to TERA. Anyone know if I can/should keep battling this because I’m ready to give up on this one.
What happens if my tinnitus was as a result of a TBI I have been 80% IU Permanent and Total will they just raise me to 100% PT ? My effect date is 6-26-2002
Then these changes won’t effect your rating. It’s common for IU to eventually move to P&T without IU. Keep complaining.
- Clay
What if you have hearing aids caused by blast in Iraq, tinnitus, and hearing loss is this something going to be automatic or does the veteran have to go in and request.and even wearinf my hearing aids it ruined my marrriage, because i could not hear certain words which caused arguments and led to divorce. Is this going to be lookwd at or is it a go down and file for a increase.
You could look into a secondary condition like depression because your hearing aids caused by hearing loss wrecked your marriage
So I have an intent to file in from July 2023. How would this affect my tinnitus claim in there?
It wont
- Clay
@@TheCivDivthanks man appreciate the insight and your channel, even though you maybe have eaten crayons at some point in life lol
@@usernamechecksout11B20B4 You need to file soon to be safe.
I'm in the process of my claim being looked at right now. Are these changes right now and will affect my rating?
Thanks,
No
- Clay
Hello thank you for the video I was waiting for a vidoe like this. But can I have migraines be added as a secondary to tinnitus. Been having ringing in ears since qualification range a couple months back and it cause a really bad headache and headache causes dizziness. Also would that only be a 10% rating
If I’m SC for TBI and already have Tinnitus as a stand alone 10% rating, will it be added to my TBI as a secondary under the new law?