Impairment, Hearing
Impairment, Hearing is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 6100 in the Ears category. Maximum rating: 100%.
Hearing Loss Rating Tables
Table VI - Hearing Impairment (Puretone + Speech)
Table VIa - Hearing Impairment (Puretone Only)
Table VII - Combined Hearing Loss Ratings
Source: 38 CFR § 4.85-4.86 - Evaluation of Hearing Impairment
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Total deafness in both ears |
| 90% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 80% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 70% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 60% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 50% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 40% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 30% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 20% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 10% | Table VI/VIA levels as specified in rating schedule |
| 0% | Table VI Level I in both ears |
Important Notes
Rating based on audiometric testing using Table VI/VII intersection. See 38 CFR 4.85-4.86. Calculate PTA (average of 1000-4000 Hz) and speech discrimination %, find Roman Numeral for each ear in Table VI, then combine in Table VII. Exceptional patterns (§4.86): use Table VIA if puretone ≥55 dB at all four frequencies or marked disparity between frequencies.
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 6100 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.
Quick Links
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