Hearing loss
Hearing loss claims rely on audiometric testing and a link to in-service noise exposure. Denials frequently hinge on exam adequacy, which is why many of these appeals are remanded for a new examination.
Across 14,344 real Board appeals for Hearing loss
59% were granted, partly granted, or remanded.
A denial is often not the end — remands are sent back for more development and frequently end in a grant.
- Granted 13%
- Partly granted 23%
- Remanded 22%
- Denied 34%
What tends to win
Among the appeals that were granted or partly granted, the most common ways Hearing loss was linked to service:
- Direct service connection4,145
- Reopened with new & material evidence365
- Presumptive (no nexus needed)178
How it’s rated, in practice
When Hearing loss was granted, the rating most often assigned was:
- 100% (1,432)
- 10% (248)
- 0% (146)
- 70% (137)
- 30% (111)
Presumptive & exposure paths
These appeals involved a recognized exposure — which can mean the link to service is presumed, with no nexus to prove:
- PACT Act163
- Agent Orange / herbicides110
- Gulf War86
- Camp Lejeune water68
- Burn pits & airborne hazards29
Real decisions
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for right ear hearing loss, resolving reasonable doubt in the Veteran's favor based on a finding of etiological relation to in-service noise exposure.
- Granted
The Board finds that K.C. was permanently incapable of self-support prior to her 18th birthday due to her disabilities, and grants recognition as a 'helpless' child for VA compensation purposes.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for a bilateral hearing loss disability and tinnitus, resolving all doubt in the Veteran's favor based on his in-service noise exposure.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for bilateral hearing loss and tinnitus, finding that the Veteran's conditions are related to in-service noise exposure.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for bilateral hearing loss, finding it at least as likely as not related to the Veteran's in-service noise exposure.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for bilateral hearing loss and tinnitus, finding that the Veteran's current conditions are related to in-service hazardous noise exposure.
What you can do next
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.