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VA Rating for Hearing Loss: How It Works
By the VetClaimsGuide Editorial Team · Educational guide · Updated June 2026
Hearing loss is one of the most common service-connected conditions, but its rating math surprises a lot of veterans. Here is how VA scores hearing loss, why a 0 percent rating is so common, and why it is still worth claiming.
Before you file, appeal, or request an increase: use the free
Claim Readiness Checker to identify possible evidence gaps. It is an educational starting point, not claim filing or representation.
How VA rates hearing loss
Hearing loss is rated under Diagnostic Code 6100, and unlike most conditions it is based on two specific tests done by an audiologist:
- A puretone audiogram measuring the quietest sounds you can hear at different frequencies.
- The Maryland CNC speech recognition test, which measures how well you understand spoken words.
VA converts those results into a Roman numeral for each ear using a standardized table, then combines the two ears in another table to produce a rating from 0 to 100 percent. Because the thresholds are strict, the rating often comes out lower than veterans expect.
Why so many veterans get 0 percent
This is the part that frustrates people. You can have clearly damaged hearing and still receive a 0 percent rating, because VA's formula requires significant loss before the percentage climbs. A 0 percent rating is not a denial, though. It means VA agrees the condition is service-connected, which matters for two reasons: if your hearing worsens later you can file for an increase, and it pairs with a separate tinnitus claim that does carry a rating.
Hearing loss and tinnitus go together
Hearing loss and tinnitus usually come from the same noise damage, so claim them together. Even if hearing loss rates 0 percent, tinnitus carries a flat 10 percent. Filing only one and forgetting the other is one of the most common missed opportunities.
The evidence VA looks for
- A VA or qualifying audiological exam with the audiogram and Maryland CNC speech test.
- Evidence of in-service noise exposure, such as your job (MOS), weapons, aircraft, or heavy equipment.
- A nexus linking the loss to service when your records do not make it obvious.
Organize these with the free Condition Evidence Builder, and if the connection needs spelling out, bring your provider an educational Nexus Letter Template.
Get organized: use the free
Evidence Builder to organize records, statements, and questions to discuss with an accredited representative or provider. You can email yourself your results so you can come back later and keep preparing.
Common mistakes and misunderstandings
- Skipping tinnitus. The tinnitus that comes with hearing loss is a separate, rateable claim.
- Treating 0 percent as a loss. It establishes service connection and protects a future increase.
- Using the wrong test. VA specifically uses the Maryland CNC speech test; a regular hearing screening may not qualify.
- Not documenting noise exposure. Tie the loss to your service history.
Use these tools as an educational starting point before speaking with a VSO, accredited representative, attorney, or medical provider. VetClaimsGuide helps you organize your information, understand possible evidence gaps, and prepare better questions. It does not file claims, represent veterans, or guarantee outcomes.
Frequently asked questions
How does VA rate hearing loss?
Hearing loss is rated under Diagnostic Code 6100 using two tests: a puretone audiogram and a Maryland CNC speech recognition test. VA converts the results into a Roman numeral for each ear and combines them in a table to set the rating, from 0 to 100 percent.
Why did I only get 0 percent for hearing loss?
VA's hearing loss formula is strict, so many veterans with real, measurable loss receive 0 percent. A 0 percent rating still means the condition is service-connected, which preserves your right to a future increase if it worsens and supports a separate tinnitus claim.
Can I claim hearing loss and tinnitus together?
Yes, and you usually should. They share the same cause, noise damage, and are rated separately. Tinnitus carries its own 10 percent rating even if hearing loss is rated 0 percent.
What evidence do I need for hearing loss?
A VA or qualifying audiological exam with the audiogram and Maryland CNC speech test, evidence of in-service noise exposure, and a nexus linking the loss to service when it is not obvious.
VetClaimsGuide is an independent educational platform and self-help resource. It is not a law firm, not a VSO, not VA-accredited representation, and is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs. It does not file or prepare claims for veterans, represent veterans, or provide legal or medical advice, and it does not diagnose conditions or guarantee any rating, payment, or outcome. It helps veterans organize information, understand possible evidence gaps, and prepare questions to discuss with a VSO, accredited representative, attorney, or medical provider. Confirm everything at VA.gov or with an accredited professional.