Tinnitus Claims for Military Personnel

What Is Tinnitus and Why Is It Common in the Military?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound — ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, or humming — when no external sound is present. It is one of the most common conditions among military veterans, caused by damage to the inner ear from exposure to loud noise. Weapons fire, explosions, aircraft engines, and vehicle noise can all trigger tinnitus. It can be constant or intermittent, and ranges from a minor annoyance to a severely debilitating condition.

How Is Tinnitus Severity Assessed?

Tinnitus severity is assessed through a combination of audiological testing and clinical questioning. Key factors include:

• Whether the tinnitus is constant or intermittent • The volume and pitch of the perceived sound • Impact on sleep, concentration, and daily functioning • Associated psychological symptoms (anxiety, depression, irritability) • Whether it is bilateral (both ears) or unilateral (one ear)

Specialist questionnaires such as the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) are often used to quantify severity.

What Compensation Can I Receive for Tinnitus?

Under the Judicial College Guidelines (17th Edition, 2024):

• Slight tinnitus alone: up to £8,560 • Slight tinnitus with slight NIHL: £8,890 to £15,370 • Mild tinnitus with some NIHL: £15,370 to £18,180 • Moderate to severe tinnitus and/or moderate NIHL: £18,180 to £36,260 • Severe NIHL with severe tinnitus: £36,260 to £55,570

Additional special damages for the impact on sleep, mental health treatment, and employment may also apply.

Can I Claim for Tinnitus Without Hearing Loss?

Yes. Tinnitus can exist independently of measurable hearing loss on a standard audiogram. If your tinnitus is linked to military noise exposure and the MOD failed to protect your hearing, you can make a compensation claim for tinnitus alone. The Judicial College Guidelines include a specific bracket for slight tinnitus on its own (up to £8,560).

What Evidence Is Needed for a Tinnitus Claim?

Evidence for a tinnitus claim includes:

• An audiological assessment (even if hearing thresholds are normal, tinnitus can be documented) • An ENT or audiological physician report confirming the diagnosis • Service records showing noise exposure • GP records documenting tinnitus complaints • Evidence of the impact on daily life (sleep diaries, mental health records) • The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory or similar validated questionnaire