What CFR section governs Hearing Loss ratings?

38 CFR 4.85 + 4.86 (using Tables VI and VIa). Always verify current criteria at va.gov before filing.

VA Disability Rating Guide

Hearing Loss — VA disability rating

38 CFR 4.85 + 4.86 (using Tables VI and VIa)

Sensorineural hearing loss is rated 0% to 100% based on speech-discrimination scores + pure-tone thresholds.

Rating tiers

Mild hearing loss. Most veterans with service-connected hearing loss receive a 0% rating — service-connection is granted but the loss isn't severe enough for compensation. Still unlocks free hearing aids from VA.

$ pay rate at 0% →

10%

Moderate hearing loss. Pure-tone average + speech-recognition score combine to a Roman numeral pair (table VI) that yields 10%.

$ pay rate at 10% →

30%

Severe bilateral hearing loss with significant speech-discrimination problems.

$ pay rate at 30% →

50%

Severe-to-profound bilateral hearing loss.

$ pay rate at 50% →

70%

Profound bilateral hearing loss; significant occupational impact.

$ pay rate at 70% →

100%

Total deafness or near-total. Rare schedular award; usually requires functional unemployability via TDIU.

$ pay rate at 100% →

Evidence checklist

VA audiogram (Maryland CNC speech-discrimination test required for VA disability calculations)
In-service noise exposure documentation
MOS-based noise probability (artillery, aviation, etc.)

Common filing mistakes

Filing tinnitus claim only and forgetting hearing loss — they're separate ratings (and the 0% hearing loss still unlocks free hearing aids)
Using a private audiologist's test that doesn't use the Maryland CNC method (VA will reject for rating purposes)
Not requesting hearing aids after winning service connection — every veteran with service-connected hearing loss qualifies for free hearing aids from VA

How to file

File VA Form 21-526EZ with the diagnosis evidence above. A free CVSO will assemble your claim and file it on your behalf at no cost.

VA Form 21-526EZ → Find a free CVSO →

In crisis? Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line — 24/7 confidential, federally-operated. Vet Centers offer free counseling for combat veterans and MST survivors.

Related conditions

Other VA rating guides

About this guide

VA disability rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR Part 4 (Schedule for Rating Disabilities). Criteria are subject to revision; always verify current rules at va.gov/disability/ before filing. This page is informational and is not a substitute for personalized advice from a CVSO, VSO representative, or VA-accredited attorney. Free claim help available from CVSOs and VSOs in every U.S. county.