Military Tinnitus Compensation Claims UK
Last updated: April 2026
Tinnitus is a persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears with no external source. It is one of the most common conditions reported by military veterans and is directly linked to noise exposure during service. You can claim compensation for military tinnitus.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It can manifest as ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, or humming. It may be constant or intermittent, and can affect one or both ears. For many veterans, tinnitus is a debilitating condition that affects sleep, concentration, and mental health.
How Is Tinnitus Linked to Military Noise Exposure?
Exposure to loud noise damages the hair cells in the inner ear. When these cells are damaged, the auditory system can generate phantom sounds — this is tinnitus. Military noise sources such as weapons fire, explosions, engines, and aircraft are well-established causes of noise-induced tinnitus.
Can Tinnitus Be Proved for a Compensation Claim?
While tinnitus cannot be objectively measured on a hearing test, it is a well-recognised medical condition. Courts and the AFCS accept subjective reports of tinnitus supported by consistent medical history, audiological assessment, and evidence of noise exposure. Standardised questionnaires help quantify its impact.
AFCS Tinnitus Descriptor Bands
The AFCS uses specific descriptors to assess tinnitus severity and assign tariff levels:
| Descriptor | Tariff Level | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent severe tinnitus | Level 11 | £30,000 |
| Permanent moderate tinnitus | Level 12 | £22,000 |
| Permanent mild tinnitus | Level 13 | £16,500 |
Claiming Tinnitus Alongside Hearing Loss
Many veterans have both tinnitus and noise-induced hearing loss. You can claim for both in a single claim. The combined impact on quality of life is considered, often resulting in a higher total award than claiming for either alone.
Impact on Quality of Life
Courts assess the impact of tinnitus on daily life when valuing claims. Key factors include sleep disturbance, difficulty concentrating, impact on work and social activities, and associated psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression. Severe tinnitus can be profoundly disabling.