Military Hearing Loss Claims – Matrix Registration Deadline Extended to 31 January 2027

The Ministry of Defence and the solicitors involved in the Military Deafness Litigation have agreed a further extension to the deadline for joining the Matrix Register. The deadline has now been extended to 31 January 2027.

For many serving personnel and veterans, this will come as welcome news. It provides additional time for those who may still be considering whether to pursue a claim for service-related hearing loss or tinnitus.

What does the extension actually mean?

It is important to understand exactly what has been extended.

The date of 31 January 2027 is not a deadline for bringing all military hearing loss claims. Rather, it is the deadline for joining the Register which forms part of the Matrix arrangements agreed between the Ministry of Defence and the claimant solicitors involved in the Military Deafness Litigation.

Extending the date for joining that Register does not mean that all military hearing loss claims must be brought by 31 January 2027. Every claim remains fact-specific and should be considered on its own merits.

Veterans should avoid feeling pressured

Over the past two years there has been a significant increase in advertising aimed at serving personnel and veterans.

Whilst many law firms provide an excellent service, veterans should be cautious about marketing suggesting there is an immediate “last chance” to claim.

The extension to January 2027 demonstrates that these arrangements continue to evolve. It is therefore important that veterans take the time to obtain specialist legal advice rather than feeling pressured into making a quick decision.

The legal issues remain complex

Although the Matrix resolves many of the historic legal arguments, military hearing loss litigation remains a highly specialised area of law.

Following the High Court judgment in Abbott v Ministry of Defence, disputes continue over issues such as:

• Diagnosis of military noise-induced hearing loss;
• Medical causation;
• Tinnitus;
• The valuation of claims; and
• Future financial losses where appropriate.

Every claimant still requires careful consideration of their military records, medical evidence and individual circumstances.

Independent specialist advice remains important

Military hearing loss claims are unlike conventional personal injury claims. They require an understanding not only of personal injury law, but also military service, Ministry of Defence procedures and the Armed Forces compensation schemes.

Veterans should choose their solicitor carefully and ensure they understand the claims process, any deductions that may be made from their compensation, and the experience of the firm they are considering instructing before making any decision.

The extension of the Matrix Register to 31 January 2027 should reassure veterans that there is no need to make a rushed decision. Take your time, ask questions and obtain specialist advice before deciding how best to proceed.

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2nd July 2026

Grant Evatt

Managing Director & Solicitor

Alma Law