Evidence Checklist: Bilateral Hearing Loss
DC 6100
Significant gaps — claim likely to be denied or underrated
Specialist Opinion (Highest Value)
Current audiogram (puretone and speech discrimination)Critical
A complete audiometric evaluation including puretone thresholds at 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz and Maryland CNC speech recognition scores for both ears.
Nexus opinion linking hearing loss to serviceCritical
Medical opinion connecting hearing loss to in-service noise exposure.
Lay Statements & Personal Documentation
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member
A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.
Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ)
Completed DBQ Hearing Loss and TinnitusCritical
Standardized form with complete audiometric data in VA format.
Service Records
Documentation of in-service noise exposureCritical
Military records showing noise-exposed MOS or duty assignments.
Entrance and separation audiograms from service
Comparing entrance and exit hearing tests shows a shift in hearing threshold that occurred during service.