Hearing Loss (Sensorineural)
Service-connected hearing loss is rated by a strict mechanical formula from your audiogram, not by how much trouble you feel you have hearing. Most grants come out at 0 or 10 percent even when hearing aids are needed.
How the VA rates it
VA uses two test results: your puretone threshold average (the average decibel loss at 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz) and your speech discrimination score on the Maryland CNC word test. Table VI in 38 CFR 4.85 converts each ear's pair of numbers into a level from I (essentially normal) to XI (profound). Table VII then combines the two ears' levels into a percentage from 0 to 100. Because both ears must be significantly impaired before the combined table produces higher percentages, ratings above 10 percent require substantial measured loss in both ears. Special rules in 38 CFR 4.86 apply for exceptional patterns (very severe loss at all test frequencies, or steeply sloping loss), which can bump the assigned level upward.
Rating criteria by percentage
Rated up to 100%Profound hearing loss in both ears (Level XI in each ear) — near-total loss of usable hearing even with amplification.
Roughly severe hearing loss in both ears — high puretone averages combined with markedly reduced speech discrimination bilaterally.
Roughly moderately severe loss in both ears, or severe loss in one ear with significant loss in the other.
Moderate measured loss or reduced speech discrimination in one or both ears — a very common outcome for noise-induced loss.
Hearing loss meets VA's disability definition but the combined table result is noncompensable — the most common outcome. A 0 percent rating still establishes service connection (and supports secondary claims and free VA hearing aids).
Secondary condition strategy
Commonly claimed secondary to this
Conditions veterans often develop from this one — each can be its own rating under 38 CFR 3.310.
- Tinnitus — Tinnitus very commonly accompanies noise-induced hearing loss and is claimed alongside or secondary to it.
- Major Depressive Disorder — Depression and social isolation secondary to significant hearing loss is a recognized secondary claim.
Evidence that strengthens this claim
- The C&P audio exam must be performed by a state-licensed audiologist using puretone audiometry plus the Maryland CNC speech test — private audiograms without Maryland CNC scores often cannot be used for rating purposes.
- To count as a disability at all, your loss must meet 38 CFR 3.385: a threshold of 40 dB or worse at any tested frequency (500-4000 Hz), or 26 dB or worse at three frequencies, or Maryland CNC speech discrimination below 94 percent.
- Service records showing a threshold shift between entrance and separation audiograms are powerful nexus evidence; also document your MOS noise exposure.
- Do not be discouraged by a 0 percent rating — service connection itself matters for future increases, hearing aids, and secondary claims like tinnitus or depression.
Rating rules to know
If hearing loss is part of Meniere's disease rated under code 6205, it cannot also be rated separately under 6100. Hearing loss occurring with a peripheral vestibular disorder (code 6204) IS rated separately and combined.
Related diagnostic codes
More ear, hearing & balance conditions
Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
Tinnitus is a persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound with no external source. It is the single most claimed VA disability, rated at a flat 10 percent.
Rated up to 10%
Meniere's Disease (Endolymphatic Hydrops)
Meniere's disease is an inner-ear disorder causing episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. VA rates it on how often vertigo attacks with an unsteady (cerebellar) gait occur, up to 100 percent.
Rated up to 100%
Peripheral Vestibular Disorder
Peripheral vestibular disorders are inner-ear balance problems causing dizziness and unsteadiness (including labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis, and BPPV). VA rates them at 10 or 30 percent based on dizziness and staggering.
Rated up to 30%
Disclaimer: Valor Rating is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always review your documents carefully before submitting to the VA. For official guidance, consult an accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney.