What this listing is about
There’s a one-year presumption of disability after initial cochlear implantation. Beyond one year, eligibility turns on HINT word recognition in quiet at 60 dB HL with device at normal settings. eCFR
Exact text (SSA)
“2.11 Hearing loss treated with cochlear implantation.
A. Consider under a disability for 1 year after initial implantation. OR
B. If more than 1 year after initial implantation, a word recognition score of 60 percent or less determined using the HINT (see 2.00B3b).” eCFR
Checklist
- Within first year post-implant: meets automatically.
- After one year: HINT score ≤ 60% in quiet at 60 dB HL, sound field, device functioning and set to normal. Social Security
Proof tips & testing
- Provide operative note, activation date, and audiology mapping records.
- Ensure HINT testing conditions are specified (quiet, 60 dB HL, no visual cues).
- Document device problems or mapping issues if scores fluctuate; consider equivalence if HINT is not feasible in the claimant’s primary language. Social Security
Definitions: HINT = Hearing in Noise Test; HL = Hearing Level.
Source & currency: 2.11 (eCFR); Blue Book 2.00B3. eCFR Social Security
Under Listing 2.11, a Social Security Disability Lawyer can help document eligibility both during the one-year post-implant period and beyond. Proper testing, device records, and consistent audiology evidence are essential to support your claim.