Claim Raven explanation
What this means
Certain patterns of puretone thresholds receive special consideration under this rule. When the specified pattern is present, VA uses the table comparison or adjustment described for that pattern.
These are defined patterns at particular test frequencies, not a general exception for any severe hearing problem. Each ear must be considered under the applicable requirements.
How this helps your claim
This helps you check whether the audiogram raises an additional calculation beyond the ordinary hearing-loss method. Use the recorded thresholds rather than an informal hearing test.
What to check in your records
Use your decision, examination reports, and relevant records to check the following points.
- Locate the puretone thresholds at every frequency named in the rule.
- Check each ear separately for the specified pattern.
- Compare the resulting calculation with the standard table method and the decision.
Check each ear for the defined threshold pattern
This section uses particular pure-tone findings at specified frequencies. The first step is to identify whether the measured pattern actually meets the relevant paragraph. General severity or difficulty understanding conversation does not substitute for those values.
Once a pattern qualifies, the regulation explains which table comparison or adjustment applies. Keep that step distinct for each ear before completing the overall hearing evaluation. Applying an exceptional-pattern method to both ears simply because one qualifies can produce an incorrect result.
Is this an exception for anyone whose hearing loss feels severe?
No. Exceptional has a defined testing meaning here. The measured pattern, rather than a subjective severity label, triggers the method. Personal descriptions can explain functional effects, but they do not establish the required frequency-specific thresholds or replace the examination results.
Official regulatory text
38 CFR § 4.86
eCFR snapshot: September 3, 2026. Layout and spacing are adapted for reading. The full section and its tables are included below.
§ 4.86 Exceptional patterns of hearing impairment.
(a) When the puretone threshold at each of the four specified frequencies (1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hertz) is 55 decibels or more, the rating specialist will determine the Roman numeral designation for hearing impairment from either Table VI or Table VIa, whichever results in the higher numeral. Each ear will be evaluated separately.
(b) When the puretone threshold is 30 decibels or less at 1000 Hertz, and 70 decibels or more at 2000 Hertz, the rating specialist will determine the Roman numeral designation for hearing impairment from either Table VI or Table VIa, whichever results in the higher numeral. That numeral will then be elevated to the next higher Roman numeral. Each ear will be evaluated separately.
(Authority: 38 U.S.C. 1155)
[64 FR 25209, May 11, 1999]
Related references
- 38 USC § 1155: The law behind VA disability rating percentages
- 38 CFR § 4.1: What a VA disability rating measures
- 38 CFR § 3.159: VA duty to assist: records and examinations
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