Military Claims Guide
Military Compensation Claims: Step by Step
How to claim compensation for hearing loss, PTSD, physical injury and other conditions caused by military service — explained in plain English.
Can you claim compensation for a military injury?
If you suffered an injury, illness or condition as a result of your military service, you may be entitled to compensation from the Ministry of Defence. This applies whether you are still serving or have left the forces — and whether your condition developed during service or became apparent years later.
PDA Law has acted for hundreds of veterans and serving personnel. We handle claims on a no win no fee basis — you pay nothing unless your claim succeeds.
What conditions can you claim for?
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Caused by exposure to gunfire, explosions, aircraft noise or other loud noise during service.
Tinnitus
Persistent ringing, buzzing or hissing in the ears caused by noise exposure during service.
PTSD & Psychiatric Injury
Post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health conditions caused by traumatic events during service.
NFCI (Non-Freezing Cold Injury)
Damage to hands, feet and limbs caused by prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions.
Training & Exercise Injuries
Physical injuries sustained during training, exercises or operations.
Veterans' Claims
Claims for conditions that developed or were diagnosed after leaving the armed forces.
How does the claims process work?
Free initial assessment
We review your service history and medical records to assess whether you have a viable claim. This is free and without obligation.
No win no fee agreement
If we take your case on, we enter into a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA). You pay nothing unless your claim succeeds.
Medical evidence
We instruct independent medical experts to assess your condition and produce a report linking it to your service. For hearing loss claims, this includes an audiological assessment.
Letter of claim
We send a formal letter of claim to the Ministry of Defence setting out the basis of your claim and the compensation sought.
Negotiation or litigation
Most claims settle without going to court. If the MoD disputes liability or the level of compensation, we will issue court proceedings and represent you throughout.
Settlement or judgment
Once your claim is resolved, compensation is paid to you. Our fee is deducted from the settlement — agreed with you in advance.
Civil claim or Armed Forces Compensation Scheme — which is right for you?
There are two main routes to compensation for military injuries:
Civil Claim (against the MoD)
- Available for injuries caused by negligence
- No upper limit on compensation
- Covers past and future losses
- Requires proof of negligence
- Time limit: 3 years from date of knowledge
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS)
- For injuries on or after 6 April 2005
- Fixed tariff payments
- No need to prove negligence
- Upper limit applies
- Time limit: 7 years from date of injury
You cannot pursue both routes for the same injury. We will advise you on which route is likely to produce the best outcome for your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Military Compensation Claims
Who can make a military compensation claim?
Current and former members of the UK armed forces — Army, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Royal Air Force — can make a claim if they suffered an injury, illness or condition as a result of their service. Claims can also be made on behalf of a deceased service member by their dependants.
What conditions can I claim for?
You can claim for any condition caused or made worse by military service. Common claims include noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus, PTSD and other psychiatric injuries, physical injuries from training or operations, NFCI (non-freezing cold injury), heat injury, and industrial diseases.
Is there a time limit for making a military claim?
Generally, you have three years from the date you knew (or ought to have known) that your injury was caused by your service. For conditions that develop gradually — such as hearing loss — the clock starts when you became aware of the link to your service. The court has discretion to extend this in appropriate cases.
How much compensation could I receive?
Compensation depends on the nature and severity of your condition, its impact on your daily life and earning capacity, and any financial losses you have suffered. Hearing loss claims typically range from a few thousand pounds to over £100,000 for severe bilateral loss. PTSD and serious physical injury claims can be significantly higher.
Do I need to pay anything upfront?
No. We handle military compensation claims on a no win no fee basis. You pay nothing unless your claim succeeds. If it does, our fee is a percentage of your compensation — agreed with you in advance and capped by law.
What is the difference between a civil claim and an Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) claim?
The AFCS is a government scheme that pays a lump sum for injuries caused by service on or after 6 April 2005. A civil claim is brought against the Ministry of Defence in the courts and can result in higher compensation, particularly for ongoing losses. You cannot pursue both routes for the same injury. We can advise which route is best for your circumstances.
Can I claim if I left the forces years ago?
Yes, in many cases. The limitation period runs from the date of knowledge, not the date of service. Many veterans successfully claim for conditions — particularly hearing loss — that were not diagnosed until years after leaving the forces.
Will making a claim affect my pension or benefits?
A civil compensation claim does not affect your armed forces pension. However, certain benefits may be affected by a lump sum payment. We will advise you on this before you proceed.
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