Binaural hearing impairment
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How hearing loss is rated for compensation
Most US workers' compensation systems rate noise-induced hearing loss with the method published by the American Academy of Otolaryngology in 1979 and adopted in the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. It averages the hearing thresholds at four speech frequencies, ignores the first 25 dB (the "low fence"), and assigns 1.5 % impairment for every decibel above it.
Ear impairment % = (average of 500, 1k, 2k, 3k Hz − 25) × 1.5 · Binaural % = (5 × better ear + worse ear) ÷ 6
From impairment to an award
Hearing loss is usually a scheduled injury: the law sets a number of weeks of benefits for total loss, and you receive that percentage of the weeks at your weekly compensation rate. Under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, total loss of hearing in both ears is scheduled at 200 weeks and in one ear at 52 weeks. States set their own schedules and rates.
| Binaural impairment | Weeks (200-week schedule) | At $900 per week |
|---|
| 5 % | 10 | $9,000 |
| 10 % | 20 | $18,000 |
| 20 % | 40 | $36,000 |
| 40 % | 80 | $72,000 |
Building a strong claim
- Audiograms: employers covered by the OSHA hearing conservation standard must test workers exposed at or above an 8-hour TWA of 85 dBA annually. Ask for copies.
- Exposure history: document noisy equipment, job titles, shift lengths and whether hearing protection was provided.
- Medical opinion: an audiologist or ENT physician links the loss pattern (often a "notch" around 4,000 Hz) to noise.
- Deadlines: file promptly – limitation periods vary by state and program.
- Hearing aids: many systems pay for hearing aids and related medical care in addition to the award.
Important limitations
This calculator shows the standard formula only. Some states use different frequencies, subtract an age allowance, cap the award or require a minimum exposure period. Always confirm the rules for your jurisdiction with a qualified attorney or the state workers' compensation board.
Frequently asked questions
How is hearing loss percentage calculated for workers' comp?
Average the thresholds at 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 3,000 Hz, subtract 25 dB and multiply by 1.5 for each ear; then weight the better ear five times in the binaural figure.
How much is a hearing loss claim worth?
It depends on the impairment percentage, your state's schedule of weeks and your weekly compensation rate. A 10 % binaural loss on a 200-week schedule equals 20 weeks of benefits.
Can I get compensation for tinnitus?
Some programs add a small rating for tinnitus or include it in the hearing award; rules vary by state.
Does age-related hearing loss reduce my award?
In some states, yes – an age deduction or apportionment for non-work loss may apply.
Do I need a lawyer for a hearing loss claim?
Not always, but many workers use a workers' compensation attorney, often on a contingency fee set by state law.
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Last updated: October 28, 2026
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