What Are Military Hearing Loss Claims?

Military hearing loss claims are compensation claims made by serving or ex-military personnel who developed hearing problems due to noise exposure during service.

Hearing loss and tinnitus are some of the most common injuries in the armed forces. They often come from repeated exposure to gunfire, explosions, aircraft engines, or heavy machinery without proper hearing protection. If your hearing has been damaged because of military service, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

Causes of Military Hearing Loss

Many service roles involve constant exposure to extreme noise levels. Common causes include:

• Gunfire and live firing exercises
• Explosions, grenades, and heavy artillery
• Tank and vehicle engine noise
• Helicopter and jet aircraft operations
• Heavy machinery and equipment used in training
• Poor or faulty hearing protection

Symptoms of Military Hearing Loss

Hearing problems can develop gradually, making them easy to overlook until they become severe. Common symptoms include:

• Struggling to hear conversations in noisy places
• Asking people to repeat themselves often
• Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Needing to increase TV or radio volume
• Difficulty following commands during service

If you notice any of these signs, seek medical advice immediately.

Who Can Make Military Hearing Loss Claims?

You may be eligible to claim if:

• You served in the Army, Navy, or RAF
• You were exposed to loud noise during training, deployment, or daily duties
• Your employer (MOD) did not provide proper hearing protection
• You now suffer from hearing loss or tinnitus linked to service

Both current service members and veterans may qualify.

Employer Duty of Care in the Armed Forces

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has a duty to protect service personnel from harm. This includes:

• Providing effective hearing protection
• Enforcing safe noise exposure limits
• Ensuring equipment is maintained and safe
• Monitoring soldiers’ hearing health

If the MOD failed in this duty and you developed hearing problems, you may have a strong case for compensation.

How Much Compensation Can You Get for Military Hearing Loss?

Compensation depends on how severe your hearing damage is and how it affects your life.

Typical Compensation Ranges

• Mild hearing loss/tinnitus: £6,000 – £12,000
• Moderate hearing loss (impacting daily life): £12,000 – £30,000
• Severe hearing loss or total loss: £30,000 – £90,000+

You may also claim for:

• Lost income or future earnings if your career is affected
• Specialist hearing aids and treatment
• Pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life

Military Hearing Loss Claims vs AFCS

There are two main ways to claim:

• Military Hearing Loss Compensation Claim (civil claim): If MOD negligence caused your hearing loss.
• Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS): A government scheme paying fixed awards for hearing damage caused by service, even if no negligence is proven.

Some people may be able to pursue both types of claim.

Evidence Needed for a Military Hearing Loss Claim

Strong evidence makes a successful claim more likely. This may include:

• Medical diagnosis of hearing loss or tinnitus
• Service records showing noise exposure
• Witness statements from colleagues
• Hearing test results (audiograms)
• MOD safety records about training conditions

No Win, No Fee Military Hearing Loss Claims

At Claims 24 Hours, we take away the risk by working on a No Win, No Fee basis.

• No upfront legal fees
• Nothing to pay if your claim fails
• Pay only if you win compensation

Time Limits for Military Hearing Loss Claims

You usually have three years to make a civil claim, starting from:

• The date of diagnosis, or

• The date you realised your hearing loss was caused by service

For AFCS claims, you normally have 7 years to apply.

How Long Do Military Hearing Loss Claims Take?

• Straightforward claims: 6–12 months
• Complex claims (severe hearing loss or disputed evidence): 12–24 months

FAQs about Military Hearing Loss Claims

Can veterans claim for hearing loss?
Yes. Veterans can make claims years after service if symptoms appear later.

Can I claim for tinnitus alone?
Yes. Tinnitus is a recognised military injury and may be compensated.

Do I need to still be in the military to claim?
No. Former service personnel can also make claims.

Will a claim affect my military pension?
No. Compensation claims do not affect pensions.

Can I claim both through AFCS and a civil claim?
Yes. In many cases, both routes can be explored.

Why Choose Claims 24 Hours for Military Hearing Loss Claims?

• Specialist solicitors with armed forces expertise
• Free, confidential advice 24/7
• No Win, No Fee support
• Experience in both civil claims and AFCS applications
• Dedicated to securing the maximum compensation possible

Start Your Military Hearing Loss Claim Today

If you’ve suffered hearing loss or tinnitus due to noise exposure during military service, you don’t need to face it alone. You may be entitled to significant compensation for your suffering, medical needs, and lost opportunities.

Contact Claims 24 Hours today for free advice and start your military hearing loss claim with our No Win, No Fee specialists.