After years of litigation, 3M has begun distributing payments from its $6.01 billion earplug settlement to military veterans who suffered hearing damage from defective Combat Arms earplugs.
Who Qualifies
Veterans who served between 2003 and 2015 and used the dual-ended Combat Arms earplugs version 2 (CAEv2) during military service may be eligible for compensation ranging from $5,000 to $280,000.
Payment Tiers
- Tier 1 (severe hearing loss/tinnitus): $150,000-280,000
- Tier 2 (moderate hearing damage): $50,000-149,000
- Tier 3 (mild impairment): $5,000-49,000
How to File
Eligible veterans must submit claims through the official settlement website by August 31, 2026. Medical records documenting hearing loss and proof of military service are required. Legal aid organizations are offering free assistance with the claims process.
