Hearing loss and tinnitus are separate VA claims with separate ratings. Tinnitus has a single 10% level. Hearing loss is rated from audiometry results, often at 0% when mild. You can claim both if you have both, and VA combines them with your other ratings.
How does VA rate hearing loss?
VA uses an exam by a state-licensed audiologist, done without hearing aids, that includes the Maryland CNC speech discrimination test and puretone audiometry. The puretone threshold average is taken at 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 Hz. Those results go to Table VI (or Table VIa in specific cases) for a Roman numeral for each ear, and Table VII combines the two numerals into a percentage. This is set out in 38 CFR 4.85. If only one ear is service connected, VA treats the other as Roman numeral I.
A 0% (noncompensable) rating is common for mild loss. It still establishes service connection, which can help if your hearing worsens and you later file for an increase.
How is tinnitus rated, and can you claim both?
DC 6260 (recurrent tinnitus) is rated 10%, once, whether the ringing is in one ear, both ears or the head. Under 38 CFR 4.87, tinnitus can generally be rated separately and combined with a hearing loss rating. Two 10% ratings combine to 19%, which rounds to 20%. Our guide to VA disability benefits for tinnitus goes deeper on the tinnitus side.
How do you connect hearing loss to service?
You need a current diagnosis, an in-service event or exposure, and a medical link. Noise exposure on flight lines, around heavy equipment, in artillery or other loud military jobs, or during combat deployments can be the in-service event. Your service records, your MOS and any entrance and separation hearing tests help. Even without in-service hearing loss on paper, a provider’s opinion that your current hearing is at least as likely as not related to service noise can support the claim. A licensed audiologist or other provider can write it, and VA does not require a paid one.
What help does VA provide for hearing loss?
Veterans with service-connected hearing loss may be eligible for VA audiology care and hearing aids. Eligibility rules are on VA.gov, so confirm what applies to you with your VA audiologist. To estimate how ratings add up, use the free VA disability calculator.
Free help with a claim is available from accredited VSOs. Results vary and VA makes the decision.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get hearing aids from VA with a 0% rating?
VA hearing care eligibility depends on factors set out on VA.gov, and service connection is one of them. Check VA.gov or ask your VA audiologist rather than assuming.
What if my hearing loss was never documented in service?
A missing in-service test does not automatically end a claim. Records of noise exposure plus a medical opinion that your current hearing loss is at least as likely as not related to service can support it. VA decides.
Do I need a private audiologist exam?
VA schedules its own exam with a licensed audiologist, including the Maryland CNC speech test. Private test results may help as evidence, but VA’s rules for the rating exam are specific.
Is tinnitus part of the hearing loss rating?
Generally no. Tinnitus is rated under DC 6260 and can be combined with a hearing loss rating, except where the tinnitus is what supports the rating under another code.
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