3M Combat Arms Earplug Settlement Calculator
Estimate a 3M Combat Arms Earplug Version 2 (CAEv2) settlement using the $6.01B master settlement framework (announced August 2023). Covers military veterans who used Dual-Ended Combat Arms Earplugs from 2003-2015 and suffered hearing loss or tinnitus. Average individual payout: $24,500; severe bilateral cases: $100K-$300K+.
The 3M Combat Arms $6.01B Master Settlement
August 2023: 3M Company agreed to pay $6.01B to resolve approximately 290,000 claims brought by US military veterans alleging the CAEv2 dual-ended earplug failed to seal properly, allowing damaging combat noise to cause hearing loss or tinnitus. The settlement uses a points matrix — service branch, duty MOS (combat arms = higher), bilateral vs unilateral loss, audiogram-confirmed decibel loss, current VA rating, tinnitus pitch/severity. Average individual payment: $24,500. Severe bilateral cases with documented audiograms and combat MOS: $100K-$300K+.
Eligibility — Who Qualifies
Active-duty military (Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force) who used CAEv2 between 2003 and 2015 and suffered hearing loss and/or tinnitus. Must have filed by the bar date (or qualify for late-claim equitable tolling). Approximately 240,000 claims were enrolled in the settlement; the remaining 50,000 were excluded or rejected. Civilian contractors using CAEv2 are NOT covered. National Guard, Reserves, and ROTC users with documented active-duty use qualify.
Audiogram and VA Rating — Documentary Proof Drives Award
Strongest cases have: pre-service baseline audiogram showing normal hearing → post-deployment audiogram showing significant threshold shift; current VA service-connected hearing loss rating ≥10%; tinnitus rated VA 10%; clear MOS in combat arms (11B, 0311, 6173, etc.). Weakest cases have only self-reported symptoms with no audiogram and no VA rating. Combat-deployment proof (DD-214, deployment orders) substantially increases the award.
Payment Timing and Attorney Fees
First Master Settlement payments began rolling out late 2023. The plaintiff's-attorney common-benefit fund takes 9-12% off the top. Individual attorneys typically charge 33-40%. Estimated net to claimant: 55-65% of gross award. Payments are structured: usually 50% within 12 months of enrollment, 50% within 24-36 months as the settlement administrator processes claims. VA disability is not affected — settlement does not reduce future VA benefits.
Sources: 3M v. Aearo Technologies global settlement Aug 2023 (MDL 2885, N.D. Fla.), VA audiogram standards, DD-214 service records. Last updated: May 2026. Not legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the average 3M earplug settlement?
The 3M Combat Arms master settlement totals $6.01B for ~240,000 enrolled claims, averaging $24,500 per claim. Severe bilateral cases with strong VA ratings and audiograms: $100K-$300K+. Tinnitus-only claims average $6K-$15K. Per 3M press release Aug 29, 2023.
Does the 3M settlement reduce my VA disability?
No. VA hearing-loss disability is not offset by 3M settlement payments. You keep your full VA rating and continue receiving monthly VA compensation. Confirm with a VA-accredited attorney if you receive any VA-tied benefits.
Can I still file a new 3M claim?
Most claims had to be filed before the bar date set by MDL 2885 (Northern District of Florida). Late claims face equitable-tolling battles and are usually rejected. If you have not filed, contact an MDL 2885 attorney immediately to assess any late-filing argument.
When do payments arrive?
First Master Settlement payments began late 2023. Typical structure: ~50% within 12 months of enrollment, ~50% within 24-36 months. The settlement administrator processes documentary review (DD-214, audiograms, VA ratings) before payment release.
Is the 3M settlement taxable?
Compensation for physical injury (hearing loss is physical) is non-taxable under IRC §104(a)(2). Pain-and-suffering tied to physical injury is also non-taxable. Interest accrued on delayed payments is taxable. Consult a tax advisor for individual classification.