Published by 
If you or a loved one experienced hearing loss or tinnitus following use of 3M Combat Arms Earplugs during military service, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective earplugs. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Veteran's 3M Earplug Lawsuit Overview
The 3M Combat Arms Earplug Products Liability Litigation represents one of the largest mass torts in U.S. history, with nearly 300,000 veterans and service members seeking compensation for hearing damage.
Juries have awarded nearly $300 million to U.S. service members and veterans who suffered hearing loss caused by allegedly defective 3M Combat Arms Earplugs.
These lawsuits allege that 3M knowingly sold defective dual-ended earplugs to the military between 1999 and 2015, resulting in widespread hearing loss and tinnitus among service members who relied on them during combat operations.
Latest Veteran's 3M Earplug Lawsuit Updates
- January 2025 - As of January 2025, 124,143 lawsuits remain pending out of the original 391,473 filed against 3M. The settlement process is ongoing, with many claimants expected to receive their awards by spring 2025.
- August 2023 - 3M agreed to a $6.01 billion settlement to resolve claims related to hearing loss and tinnitus due to defective earplugs. This settlement addresses claims from veterans who served during Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and New Dawn.
FDA Reports and Statistics
While specific FDA reports are not mentioned in the original content, the lawsuit statistics include:
- Initially, approximately 391,473 lawsuits were filed against 3M, primarily by veterans alleging hearing loss and tinnitus due to defective earplugs.
- Following the $6.01 billion settlement agreement in August 2023, the number of active cases has significantly decreased, with 124,143 lawsuits still pending as of January 2025.
- Veterans affected by the 3M earplugs may also qualify for VA disability benefits, with monthly compensation ranging from $175.51 for 10% disability to over $4,534.23 for 100% disability, depending on family circumstances [1].
Related Articles: 3M Earplug Lawsuits Update
Veteran's 3M Earplug Injuries & Side Effects
The defective 3M Combat Arms earplugs have been linked to several serious hearing-related conditions:
- Hearing Loss: A reduction in the ability to hear sounds, which can be temporary or permanent. It is typically measured in decibels (dB) using an audiogram.
- Tinnitus: A persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears that can significantly affect focus and quality of life.
- Combined Conditions: Many veterans suffer from both hearing loss and tinnitus, which may require additional medical evaluation and tailored treatment plans.
- Psychological Effects: The constant presence of tinnitus and hearing impairment can lead to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life.
How Much Money Are Veterans Getting for the 3M Lawsuit?
As of January 2025, veterans and service members affected by the 3M Combat Arms earplugs lawsuit are receiving substantial compensation as part of a $6 billion settlement agreement.
This settlement addresses claims related to hearing loss and tinnitus resulting from the use of defective earplugs manufactured by 3M between 1999 and 2015. The compensation amounts vary based on the type and severity of hearing damage experienced.
What is the Average Payout in Military Earplug Claims?
The average payout in Military Earplug claims for plaintiffs in the 3M lawsuits can vary depending on the type of claim filed.
Hearing Loss Claims:
- Settlement Range: $50,000 - $300,000
- Reflects the average settlements for claims involving hearing loss caused by defective 3M Combat Arms earplugs.
Tinnitus Claims:
- Settlement Range: $50,000 - $400,000
- Tinnitus claims may result in higher payouts due to the chronic nature of the condition and its significant impact on daily life.
Combined Hearing Loss and Tinnitus Claims:
- Settlement Range: $100,000 - $400,000
- Plaintiffs suffering from both conditions often receive higher settlements to account for the compounded effects of these auditory injuries.
VA Disability Compensation for Hearing Loss and Tinnitus
Veterans affected by 3M earplugs may also qualify for VA disability benefits, which provide ongoing financial support.
Compensation varies based on the severity of the hearing-related disability:
- 10% Disability Rating: $175.51 per month
- 30% Disability Rating: $508.80 per month
- 50% Disability Rating: $1,041.82 per month
- 100% Disability Rating: Over $4,544.23 per month, depending on family circumstances.
It is important to note that VA disability compensation is independent of any settlements received from 3M lawsuits, offering additional financial support for veterans managing service-related hearing issues.
Consulting with an experienced attorney ensures you navigate the process effectively while exploring additional compensation avenues like VA disability benefits.
Do You Qualify for a Veteran's 3M Earplug Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Veteran's 3M Earplug lawsuit if:
- You served in the military during specific operations, including:
- Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2011)
- Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2014)
- Operation New Dawn (2010-2011)
- You were issued and used 3M Combat Arms earplugs during your service.
- You experienced hearing loss or tinnitus that can be linked to your use of the earplugs.
- You can provide medical documentation confirming your hearing-related condition.
Evidence Required for a Veteran's 3M Earplug Lawsuit
To strengthen your case, you should prepare the following documentation:
- Service Records: Proof of service showing your use of 3M Combat Arms Earplugs during your time in the military.
- Medical Records: Diagnosis and treatment records for hearing loss or tinnitus.
- Evidence of Impact: Documentation demonstrating how ongoing symptoms have affected your quality of life and daily activities.
Damages You Can Recover
Compensation in 3M earplug lawsuits varies based on the severity of injuries:
- Hearing Loss Claims: Settlement range of $50,000 - $300,000
- Tinnitus Claims: Settlement range of $50,000 - $400,000
- Combined Hearing Loss and Tinnitus Claims: Settlement range of $100,000 - $400,000
Additionally, veterans may qualify for VA disability benefits, which provide ongoing financial support for service-connected hearing issues.
Veteran's 3M Earplug Recall Information
While the original content does not mention a specific recall, it notes that the lawsuits address claims related to hearing loss and tinnitus resulting from the use of defective earplugs manufactured by 3M between 1999 and 2015.
These dual-ended Combat Arms earplugs were standard issue for many service members during operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Statute of Limitations for Veteran's 3M Earplug Lawsuits
Understanding the timeline for filing your lawsuit is crucial to avoid missing out on potential compensation. The statute of limitations in 3M earplug lawsuits typically begins under the discovery rule, which states that the clock starts ticking when:
- Injury Discovery: The plaintiff becomes aware of their hearing loss or tinnitus.
- Cause Realization: The plaintiff should reasonably suspect that their injury was caused by defective 3M earplugs.
Acting promptly is essential. Consulting a legal expert can help ensure you file your claim within the allowable timeframe. Do not delay—taking action now can secure the justice and support you are entitled to receive.
Related Articles:
See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys have covered.
FAQs
1. Can Veterans Expect to Receive a Lump Sum Payment from the 3M Lawsuit?
In most cases, settlements are paid out as a lump sum. However, the exact payment structure can vary depending on the agreement reached during settlement negotiations.
2. Are There Any Fees or Deductions from the Settlement Amount?
Yes, legal fees, court costs, and other expenses are typically deducted from the settlement amount before the veteran receives the final payment.
3. How Long Will It Take for Veterans to Receive Their Settlement from the 3M Lawsuit?
The timeline for receiving settlements can vary, with some veterans receiving payments within a few months after a settlement is reached, while others may wait longer due to ongoing legal proceedings.
4. What is the Average VA Rating for Hearing Loss?
The average VA rating for hearing loss is a 10% disability rating for hearing loss, reflecting mild to moderate impairment.
5. What Types of Hearing Damage Qualify for Compensation?
Qualifying conditions include measurable hearing loss confirmed by audiogram testing, diagnosed tinnitus, or a combination of both conditions that can be linked to military service and the use of 3M earplugs.
6. How Do I Prove My Hearing Loss is Connected to 3M Earplugs?
To prove your hearing loss is connected to 3M earplugs, veterans must demonstrate they were issued and used 3M Combat Arms earplugs during service and provide medical records confirming hearing loss or tinnitus directly linked to their use of the earplugs.
7. Can I File Both a 3M Lawsuit and a VA Disability Claim?
Yes, you can file both a 3M lawsuit and a VA disability claim. Veterans have two primary avenues to file their claims: the Official Combat Arms Earplugs Settlement Program and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for disability compensation. These are separate processes, and you can pursue both simultaneously.
8. What Resources are Available to Help Veterans With 3M Claims?
Resources that are available to help veterans with 3M claims include Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP), Veterans Legal Clinics, and support groups like the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA).
9. What Happens if I Miss the Filing Deadline?
If you miss the filing deadline it typically means losing your right to pursue compensation through the legal system. This is why understanding the statute of limitations and acting promptly is critical.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action—legal deadlines apply based on the discovery rule, which varies by jurisdiction. Free consultations available—no upfront costs, and we only get paid if you win.
Schmidt & Clark, LLP is no longer taking these cases. If you feel you may have a potential case, we urge you to contact another law firm adequately suited to handle your case.
Veterans affected by defective 3M earplugs deserve justice and compensation for their injuries. By understanding your legal rights and options, you can take important steps toward securing the support you need for hearing-related conditions resulting from your military service.
Reference:
- https://veteranshelpgroup.com/veterans-with-hearing-loss-from-defective-3m-earplugs-fact-sheet/