Listing code
2.07
Adult (Part A)
Body system
2.00
Special senses and speech
Subsections
2
Lettered criteria paths
Step in evaluation
3 of 5
Listing match approves the claim
SSA listing text and criteria
Disturbance of labyrinthine-vestibular function (Including Ménière's disease), characterized by a history of frequent attacks of balance disturbance, tinnitus, and progressive loss of hearing. With both A and B:
Subsection A
Disturbed function of vestibular labyrinth demonstrated by caloric or other vestibular tests; and
Subsection B
Hearing loss established by audiometry.
Source: SSA Blue Book listing 2.07. Last synced 2026-05-04.
Where claims under 2.07 usually fail
One common failure mode is having a history of balance disturbance, tinnitus, and progressive hearing loss but missing the required proof in Subsection A, such as caloric testing or another vestibular test showing disturbed function. Another is having vertigo and hearing problems noted in records but not having hearing loss established by audiometry for Subsection B. Some claims also stumble by treating hearing tests as informal hearing complaints instead of audiometry results. Finally, some people submit evidence that supports the general history yet does not connect that history to qualifying testing results for both A and B.
Medical evidence that strengthens this claim
For Subsection A, look for documentation that vestibular labyrinth function is disturbed using caloric testing or another vestibular test. For Subsection B, look for audiometry results that establish hearing loss. Ideally, medical records include the actual test reports (or clear documentation of the test and the result), not just a narrative saying the symptoms occur.
What happens if your records do not meet this listing
When the strict parts of the criteria are not met, the process does not stop automatically. Steps 4 and 5 focus on what work activities can still be done despite the condition. A separate functional assessment based on the medical record is used to determine the effect on remaining ability to do sustained work, and vocational factors weigh heavily in later steps.
Work activity and the SGA gate for this condition
Work-activity limits apply at the start of an SSDI claim, so the ability to do work is assessed in light of the condition. To qualify under 2.07, Subsection A requires disturbed vestibular labyrinth function shown by caloric or other vestibular tests, and Subsection B requires hearing loss established by audiometry, along with the overall history of frequent attacks of balance disturbance, tinnitus, and progressive loss of hearing. After approval, continuing eligibility depends on ongoing medical improvement rules, and eligibility protections can continue for people who meet the program's post-entitlement rules.
Listing 2.07 FAQ
Questions that come up repeatedly for disturbance of labyrinthine-vestibular function (including ménière's disease), characterized by a history of frequent attacks of balance disturbance, tinnitus, and progressive loss of hearing disability claims.