Condition Guide · Speech recognition-based
Hearing loss VA rating 2026 — 38 CFR §4.85
Updated June 2026 · CFR source: 38 CFR §4.85
Service-connected hearing loss is rated under 38 CFR §4.85 using a combination table that cross-references your speech recognition score (Maryland CNC test percentage) and your pure-tone average. The result ranges from 0% to 100%. Unlike tinnitus — which is always 10% — hearing loss ratings vary considerably based on audiological test results.
How the §4.85 rating works
VA uses two measurements from your audiology exam:
- Pure-tone average (PTA): average of your hearing thresholds at 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz in each ear. Higher PTA = more hearing loss = higher rating.
- Speech recognition (Maryland CNC test): percentage of 50-word test correctly identified. Lower score = worse speech discrimination = higher rating.
Each ear is assigned a Roman numeral category (I–XI) using the combination of PTA and speech recognition. The two ears are then cross-referenced in the binaural table to produce the final bilateral rating percentage.
Typical rating outcomes
| Typical scenario | Rating | 2026 monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Mild bilateral loss, good speech recognition | 0% | $0 (SC, no comp) |
| Moderate bilateral loss with some speech discrimination loss | 10% | $180.42 |
| Significant bilateral loss, poor speech recognition | 30%–50% | $552.47–$1,132.90 |
| Severe bilateral loss, very poor speech recognition | 60%–100% | $1,435.02–$3,938.58 |
Service connection
Hearing loss service connection requires:
- Current diagnosis of sensorineural hearing loss (audiological test results).
- In-service noise exposure — MOS with loud equipment (infantry, artillery, aviation, vehicle operators, ship engine rooms).
- A nexus connecting current hearing loss to in-service noise exposure — often established by the C&P examiner based on the exposure history and audiological findings.
C&P exam — the audiological examination
The hearing loss C&P exam is a formal audiological examination conducted by a VA audiologist. Knowing what to expect helps you get the most accurate rating:
- Pure-tone audiometry. The audiologist tests hearing thresholds at multiple frequencies (500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000 Hz) in a soundproof booth. Results at 1000–4000 Hz are averaged to compute your pure-tone average (PTA) per ear.
- Maryland CNC speech recognition test. You repeat 50 single-syllable words presented through headphones at a comfortable volume. The percentage correctly repeated is your speech discrimination score — the primary driver of your rating level. Do not rush; repeat each word as accurately as you can.
- Do not wear hearing aids during the test. The exam measures unaided hearing. Wearing hearing aids would produce artificially better scores and understate your hearing loss.
- Noise exposure history. The audiologist will ask about your military MOS and noise exposures. Be specific — weapons qualification, aircraft engine noise, vehicle operations, artillery. This documents the in-service nexus for service connection.
- Bring prior audiology records. Prior hearing tests from service (entrance and separation audiograms from your service record) showing a threshold shift are strong evidence of in-service noise damage.
- Document functional impact. Describe how hearing loss affects daily life — difficulty in conversations, TV volume levels, inability to hear in crowds, use of assistive devices. Functional impact supports SMC-K evaluation if deafness thresholds are met.
SMC-K for bilateral deafness
If your bilateral hearing loss qualifies as "deafness" under 38 CFR §3.350(a), you may receive SMC-K ($139.87/month) in addition to your schedular rating. VA defines hearing loss qualifying for SMC purposes separately from the rating level — discuss this with your VSO if you have significant bilateral hearing impairment.
FAQ
How does VA rate hearing loss differently from tinnitus?
Tinnitus is rated under DC 6260 at a flat 10%. Hearing loss is rated under §4.85 using a combination of speech recognition score (Maryland CNC test percentage) and pure-tone average. They are separate diagnostic codes and can both be service-connected separately.
What is the Maryland CNC test?
The Maryland CNC (Consonant-Nucleus-Consonant) test is a speech recognition test using 50 single-syllable words. Your score is the percentage of words correctly repeated. Lower scores indicate greater hearing loss and produce higher VA ratings. This test is the primary driver of the rating level under §4.85.
Is bilateral hearing loss covered by the bilateral factor (§4.26)?
No. Bilateral hearing loss is already rated as a single bilateral condition under §4.85 using the combined table for both ears simultaneously. The §4.26 bilateral factor applies to extremity and skeletal muscle conditions — not to sensory conditions rated under §4.85.
Can I get SMC for deafness?
Yes — bilateral deafness meeting the VA definition qualifies for SMC-K ($139.87/month) under 38 CFR §3.350(a). This is in addition to the schedular hearing loss rating. VA defines "deafness" for SMC purposes separately from the schedular rating level.
Related: Tinnitus · SMC-K eligibility