Bilateral hearing loss is a condition that affects both ears and results in reduced hearing sensitivity. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to loud noises, genetics, aging, infections, and certain medications. The degree of hearing loss can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact an individual’s ability to communicate and function in daily life.
Bilateral hearing loss is a common issue for veterans, especially those who have served in combat or in other noisy environments. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), hearing loss and tinnitus are the two most prevalent service-connected disabilities among veterans. In fact, the VA reported that nearly 1.3 million veterans received disability compensation for hearing loss in 2020.
If you are a veteran with bilateral hearing loss and it is impacting your ability to function in daily life, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits. The VA provides disability compensation to veterans who have a current diagnosed disability that is related to their military service. To qualify for disability compensation, you must have:
- A current diagnosis of bilateral hearing loss or tinnitus
- Evidence that your hearing loss is related to your military service
- A VA disability rating, which is based on the severity of your hearing loss
To establish service connection for your hearing loss, you will need to provide evidence that your hearing loss is related to your military service. This can be done by providing evidence of exposure to loud noises, such as combat experience, training exercises, or working with heavy machinery. You will also need to provide medical evidence, such as hearing test results and doctor’s reports, to establish the severity of your hearing loss.
The VA disability rating for bilateral hearing loss is based on the degree of hearing loss, as measured by a hearing test. The rating ranges from 0% to 100%, with higher ratings indicating more severe hearing loss. The VA also provides additional compensation for hearing aids and other assistive devices that are needed to manage your hearing loss.
To apply for VA disability benefits for bilateral hearing loss, you can submit a claim online or through your local VA office. You will need to provide supporting documentation, including medical records and evidence of service connection. It is also helpful to work with a VA-accredited representative, such as a Veterans Service Officer or an attorney, to ensure that your claim is complete and accurate.
Bilateral hearing loss is a common condition among veterans and can significantly impact their daily life. If you are a veteran with bilateral hearing loss and it is impacting your ability to function, you may be eligible for VA disability compensation. To qualify for benefits, you will need to establish service connection for your hearing loss and provide medical evidence to support your claim. Working with a VA-accredited representative can help ensure that your claim is complete and accurate.