Hearing loss VA disability:
ratings, evidence and next steps.
Understand the rating criteria, organize supporting records, and find official help with your claim.
GrantsHubUSA · Independent editorial guide
- Diagnostic code
- DC 6100
- Rating framework
- 38 CFR § 4.85
- Key consideration
- Hearing test results in both ears
Overview
How VA evaluates hearing loss.
VA rates hearing loss mechanically from test results, not from how severe it feels. A state-licensed audiologist tests each ear without hearing aids, using a Maryland CNC speech discrimination test and puretone audiometry.
Because of how the tables work, many veterans with measurable hearing loss receive a 0% rating. A 0% service-connected rating can still matter if hearing gets worse later.
A diagnosis alone does not establish a particular rating.
Hearing loss rating criteria, at a glance.
Hearing loss does not use a simple tier list. The rating comes from three tables.
The puretone threshold average is the average of your thresholds at 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 Hz. Table VI combines that average with your speech discrimination score to give each ear a Roman numeral from I to XI (Table VIa uses the average alone in some cases).
Table VII then crosses the better ear's numeral with the poorer ear's numeral to set the rating. Section 4.86 adds rules for exceptional patterns, such as thresholds of 55 dB or more at all four frequencies.
Source: 38 CFR § 4.85, DC 6100
These summaries are not the full legal criteria or a self-assessment tool.VA decides the rating from the evidence. Read the full regulation text at the source link.
Build a clear evidence record.
- Audiology examA VA or VA-arranged exam with the Maryland CNC speech test and puretone audiometry.
- Service hearing testsEntry, in-service and separation hearing tests, if available.
- Service and job recordsRecords showing duties or events with hazardous noise.
- Personal statementHow hearing problems affect conversations, work and daily life.
Preparing for a C&P exam
- 1Follow the instructions in your appointment notice, and call the exam provider if you need to reschedule.
- 2Describe symptoms honestly, including how often they happen, how long they last, and changes over time.
- 3Explain the effects on work, relationships and everyday activities, including your worst days.
Common pitfalls to avoid.
- Wrong test typeVA ratings require the Maryland CNC speech test, which not every hearing clinic performs.
- Missed appointmentsContact the exam provider before the date if you cannot attend.
- Not reporting changesIf your hearing gets worse, you can ask VA for a new evaluation.
Questions about hearing loss claims.
No. VA first decides whether the condition is service-connected, then rates it based on the evidence of how it affects you. A diagnosis alone does not set a rating.
VA compares the evidence, including the exam report and your records, with the criteria in 38 CFR § 4.85. When the evidence falls between two levels, VA assigns the higher one if the disability more nearly matches it (38 CFR § 4.7).
Read your appointment notice, bring a list of medications and treatment, and be ready to describe how often symptoms happen, how long they last, and how they affect work, relationships and daily activities. If you cannot attend, contact the exam provider before the appointment.
VA's directory lists accredited attorneys, claims agents and Veterans Service Organization representatives. Help from a Veterans Service Organization is free.
Check the original guidance.
This guide explains published information. It does not replace medical care or advice from an accredited claims professional.
Make your next step a clear one.
Explore more conditions, or use the VA pay calculator to plan ahead.