Hearing disabilities rank among the most common service-connected conditions for veterans seeking VA disability compensation. Veterans Affairs recognizes the impact of military service on auditory health, offering compensation and healthcare and assistive technology to those affected.
Compensation eligibility comprises a range of conditions, from hearing loss to tinnitus. See the 38CFR4.87 Schedule of ratings—ear, which lists each condition and its rating percentage.
Eligibility and Rating Criteria
To qualify for VA disability compensation, veterans must establish a service connection for their hearing impairment, demonstrating that the condition originated or worsened during active duty. The VA employs a specific formula to calculate disability ratings for hearing loss, considering both audiometric test results and speech recognition scores. Tinnitus, characterized by persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, receives a maximum 10% disability rating from the VA because of its subjective nature and impact on daily life. Ratings for hearing impairments range from 0% to 100%, with higher ratings resulting in increased monthly compensation.
Application Process Overview
To start a claim for hearing-related disabilities, veterans should compile relevant medical records, service documents, and buddy statements corroborating their condition. The VA typically requires a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam to assess hearing loss or tinnitus severity. The C&P exam helps determine the extent of the auditory impairment and its impact on the veteran’s daily life.
Compensation and Benefits
Disability ratings for hearing impairments range from 0% to 100%, with higher ratings resulting in increased monthly compensation. Even a 0% rating, while not providing monetary benefits, acknowledges service connection and may qualify veterans for other VA services.
Ongoing Audiological Care
Beyond financial compensation, the VA provides comprehensive audiological care for eligible veterans. This includes hearing aids, assistive devices, and regular check-ups to monitor and manage hearing health. Veterans experiencing hearing difficulties should not hesitate to seek VA help. Early intervention can improve outcomes and ensure compensation for service-related auditory impairments.
What evidence is required to link hearing loss to military service
To link hearing loss to military service for a VA disability claim, you typically need to provide the following evidence:
1. A current diagnosis of hearing loss from a licensed audiologist, including results from
- Pure tone audiometry test
- Controlled speech discrimination test (Maryland CNC test)
2. Evidence of an in-service event that may have caused or contributed to hearing loss, such as
- Combat service records
- Records of exposure to artillery fire, small arms fire, explosions, etc.
- Military occupational specialty (MOS) involving loud noise exposure (e.g., mechanic, artillery)
3. A medical nexus opinion from a qualified healthcare provider linking your current hearing loss to your military service. This should explain how your in-service noise exposure likely caused or contributed to your current hearing condition.
4. Service medical records showing hearing loss or complaints of hearing problems while in service, if available.
5. Statements from you, family members, or fellow service members describing your hearing difficulties during or shortly after service
6. Evidence of continuity of symptomatology, showing ongoing hearing issues since service
7. If applying based on presumptive service connection, evidence showing you meet the service requirements for the presumption (e.g., specific time periods or locations of service)
Suppose veterans have proof of significant noise exposure during service and a medical opinion linking it to their current condition. In that case, they can establish a service connection even if they receive a diagnosis of hearing loss after service.
Sources:
S. Rept. 107-234 – VETERANS HEARING LOSS COMPENSATION …
Can I Get VA Disability for Hearing Loss? – Truman Law
Entitlement to service connection for bilateral hearing loss is granted
Steps to Prove Hearing Loss for a VA Disability Claim
Getting Veterans (VA) Disability for Hearing Loss – CCK Law
Unraveling VA Ratings for Hearing Loss: Your In-Depth Guide
How to Get Veterans Disability Compensation for Vision or Hearing …
Evidence Needed For Your Disability Claim | Veterans Affairs
