Is a hearing loss considered a disability? ?

Question

I have about a 25-35% hearing loss. I was wondering if this could be considered a disability or if one has to be completely deaf. I am thinking about it in regards to employment (helping meet that quota) or in owning a business.

Before any of you compare diminished sight to hearing loss, they are not the same. People do not bring items closer to you when you wear glasses like they yell when they see you wearing hearing aids.

Answer 1

My brother is deaf in one ear and wears a hearing aid in the other (without the hearing aid he can't hear anything). This does not affect his ability to hold down a full time job and he is not considered disabled.

Answer 2

Great question.  You 'll have to contact your state's department of social services or Vocational Rehabilitation office to find out what the actual "qualifications" for being disabled via deafness are.  

I will tell you, many Deaf people fight that label and instead label themselves as a cultural minority.  If you meet the requirements, you could get grants or monies for a business.

Good luck in your future endeavors!