The Board denied higher ratings for tinnitus and bilateral hearing loss, granted a 30% rating for hyperacusis from January 31, 2008, and granted SMC based on the need for aid and attendance.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not support a higher rating for tinnitus or bilateral hearing loss prior to May 26, 2022, but there was an approximate balance of positive and negative evidence regarding hyperacusis causing dizziness and occasional staggering. The need for regular aid and attendance was supported by the evidence.
- Claimed conditions
- tinnitus, bilateral hearing loss, hyperacusis, depressive disorder, left shoulder degenerative joint disease, left shoulder scar tissue
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- December 2, 2025
- Citation
- A25103572
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