Listing code
2.11
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
Hearing loss treated with cochlear implantation.
Subsection A
Consider under a disability for 1 year after initial implantation. OR
Subsection 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 ). Back to Top Support Contact us Find an office Forms Publications Report fraud Languages Español Other languages Plain language Services for Employers & businesses Government agencies Other groups Representatives About Careers Chief actuary data Communications Financial reports Initiatives Research & policy Social Security Administration SSA.gov An official website of the Social Securit
Source: SSA Blue Book listing 2.11. Last synced 2026-05-04.
Where claims under 2.11 usually fail
A common mistake is assuming that any cochlear implant automatically qualifies without meeting the timing rule in subsection A or the test threshold in subsection B. Another pitfall is relying on hearing test results that are not the HINT word recognition score. People also sometimes use a word recognition score without confirming the "60 percent or less" cutoff specified in subsection B. Finally, missing the timing detail is frequent, because subsection B only applies when more than 1 year after the initial implantation.
Medical evidence that strengthens this claim
To fit listing 2.11, documentation needs to show the initial implantation date (for the 1-year period in subsection A). For claims that are more than 1 year after initial implantation, the key piece is a word recognition score using the HINT, showing 60 percent or less (subsection B). Hearing evaluation reports should clearly identify the HINT word recognition result and the relevant time since the initial implantation.
What happens if your records do not meet this listing
If the claim does not fit listing 2.11 under subsection A or subsection B, the case can still be evaluated using the general disability process based on the person's remaining ability to do work (often called residual functional capacity). The medical evidence about how hearing loss affects communication and daily functioning still matters, even when the exact listing thresholds are not met. The medical-vocational step is especially important if the functional impact limits work despite treatment.
Work activity and the SGA gate for this condition
For SSDI, the work activity rules still apply at the start of the claim, and work above the SGA level can affect eligibility regardless of a cochlear implant. If listing 2.11 is met, eligibility can follow the listing's timing or HINT word recognition pathway, as applicable (within 1 year of initial implantation, or after 1 year with HINT word recognition 60 percent or less). After approval, continued eligibility is based on ongoing medical factors and whether work activity continues to meet SSA's rules for substantial gainful activity.
Listing 2.11 FAQ
Questions that come up repeatedly for hearing loss treated with cochlear implantation disability claims.