The VA reported that in 2020, more than 1.3 million Veterans were receiving compensation for hearing loss, which makes it one of the most common service-connected disabilities among Veterans. One of the most frequently asked questions is what information is required to get service connected for hearing loss. While no two cases are the same, there are three general requirements that must be met to be granted service connection.
The first requirement is that the hearing loss must be diagnosed by a licensed audiologist. This testing will typically be done by at a compensation and pension examination where the audiologist will test your ability to understand and recognize speech as well as your ability to hear different frequencies.
The second requirement is that there must be evidence of an in-service hazard or event. This event does not have to be combat related. Numerous military occupational specialties put military service members at an increased risk of developing hearing loss.
The final requirement is evidence of a causal relationship between the present disability and its in-service incurrence. This evidence can come in many different forms, but it must show that it is at least “as likely as not” that the claimed hearing loss was caused by military service.
At Gardberg and Kemmerly, we keep a close eye on any pending legislation to best help our clients. We focus on helping clients pursue the full benefits they have earned through their service, and we take the time to understand each client’s medical history, service record, and family circumstances so we can present the strongest possible case. Contact an experienced Veterans Disability attorney at Gardberg & Kemmerly, P.C. today at 251-343-1111 for a free case evaluation. Gardberg & Kemmerly, P.C. represents claimants in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, and Louisiana at all levels of the disability process from initial application to appeals to Federal Court and is honored to represent Veterans and their families