Wondering if you can still sign up for the 3M earplug lawsuit in 2025? While the main Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) deadline has passed, you might still have a chance to seek justice if you meet specific criteria. The clock is ticking, though—contact a personal injury attorney now to confirm your eligibility and avoid missing critical legal deadlines. Thousands of veterans and service members have already taken action against 3M Company over its defective Combat Arms Earplugs, Version 2 (CAEv2), which allegedly caused hearing loss, tinnitus, and other issues. Ready to explore your options? Let’s break it down.
What’s the Latest on the 3M Earplug Lawsuit in 2025?
As of March 23, 2025, the 3M earplug lawsuit—the largest mass tort in U.S. history—has made significant strides. In August 2023, 3M agreed to a $6 billion settlement to resolve nearly 260,000 claims, with payments rolling out through 2029. According to recent updates, over 99% of claimants have opted in, and more than $1.6 billion has been paid out to date. However, with 33,000 cases still pending in the MDL as of early March 2025 (down from a peak of nearly 300,000), the litigation continues to evolve. If you haven’t joined yet, a lawyer can assess whether you can still file an individual claim outside the MDL.
Why Act Now? Deadlines vary by state due to statutes of limitations, and delays could bar you from compensation. Sign up for the 3M earplug lawsuit today by connecting with us for a free consultation—don’t let your chance slip away.
Who Qualifies to Sign Up for the 3M Earplug Lawsuit?
The CAEv2 earplugs were designed to protect service members from hazardous noise—like artillery fire—while allowing communication. But lawsuits allege they didn’t seal properly, leaving users vulnerable to hearing damage. Here’s who might qualify to sign up in 2025:
- Service History: You served in the U.S. military (any branch) between 2003 and 2015.
- Earplug Use: You used the military-issued, dual-sided CAEv2 earplugs (yellow and black).
- Injuries: You now suffer from hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), balance issues, or related symptoms tied to earplug use.
Not sure if you qualify? Our network of experienced attorneys offers free consultations to confirm your eligibility—no cost, no risk. We’ll guide you through the process and connect you with experts if needed to link your symptoms to the defective earplugs.
How to Sign Up for the 3M Earplug Lawsuit in 2025
Ready to take action? Here’s how to sign up for the 3M earplug lawsuit today:
- Gather Evidence: You’ll need medical records showing hearing issues post-service (ideally near your discharge) and, if possible, a VA impairment rating. Don’t have these? A lawyer can help you obtain them.
- Contact an Attorney: Fill out our contact form for a free case review. Our team will assess your situation and outline your next steps.
- File Your Claim: If eligible, your attorney will file your lawsuit, ensuring it meets all deadlines and requirements.
The process can feel complex, but we’re here to simplify it. Our attorneys handle the heavy lifting—connecting with medical experts, collecting evidence, and fighting for your compensation—so you can focus on moving forward.
How Much Is the 3M Earplug Lawsuit Worth Now?
In 2018, 3M paid $9.1 million to settle with the Department of Justice over False Claims Act allegations, admitting no liability. Fast forward to 2025: the $6 billion settlement is distributing funds to veterans, with individual payouts varying based on injury severity. Past bellwether trials offer a glimpse:
- January 2022: Two veterans won $110 million ($15M compensatory, $40M punitive each).
- December 2021: A veteran received $22.5 million ($7.5M compensatory, $15M punitive).
- 2025 Update: With $1.6 billion already disbursed, average payouts range from tens of thousands to millions, depending on your case.
Your settlement could cover medical costs, hearing aids, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Punitive damages might also apply if 3M’s negligence is proven egregious in your case. Curious about your potential payout? Sign up for a free consultation to find out.
Recent 3M Earplug Lawsuit Settlements: What’s Happening?
Since 2022, verdicts and settlements have piled up. By March 2025, over 47,000 claimants have received payments, with the MDL shrinking from 148,528 cases in November 2024 to 33,000 now. Key wins include:
- May 2022: A $77.5 million verdict for a veteran with severe hearing loss and tinnitus.
- December 2024: An extra $24.1 million from the Extraordinary Injury Fund boosted payouts by 30.9% for many claimants.
These outcomes signal hope for new plaintiffs. If you’ve suffered hearing damage from 3M earplugs, signing up now could secure your share of the remaining $3 billion-plus still to be paid out.
What’s the Average Settlement for a 3M Earplug Lawsuit in 2025?
Settlement amounts fluctuate based on individual damages. Past awards ranged from $1.7 million to $77.5 million, but not every case wins big—some plaintiffs received nothing in early trials. Your compensation could include:
- Compensatory Damages: Hearing loss, tinnitus, balance issues, medical expenses, and hearing aid costs.
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, mental anguish, or reduced quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: If 3M’s actions were especially reckless, like knowingly distributing faulty earplugs.
Each case is unique. An attorney can estimate your potential award after reviewing your evidence. Sign up today to get started.
Is Signing Up for the 3M Earplug Lawsuit Worth It?
Absolutely—if you qualify. Juries have repeatedly ruled against 3M, with punitive damages signaling their frustration with the company’s actions. The $6 billion settlement proves victims deserve compensation. A lawyer can:
- Confirm your eligibility with expert input.
- Fight for maximum damages, including rare punitive awards.
- Guide you through the process with no upfront cost.
Even with the MDL winding down, individual lawsuits remain an option. The sooner you sign up, the stronger your case can be.
Could You Qualify to Sign Up in 2025?
If you were a gunner, pilot, mechanic, or any service member exposed to loud noise between 2003 and 2015, and the CAEv2 earplugs failed you, you might qualify. Bring any evidence—medical records, photos, or VA ratings—to your free consultation. We’ll help you build a solid claim.
How Long Will the 3M Earplug Lawsuit Take?
Mass torts like this can take years, but with the settlement in motion, joining now could speed up your resolution. Statutes of limitations vary by state (typically 2-3 years from injury discovery), so act fast. A lawyer will ensure your claim is filed on time and maximize your case’s strength over time.
Sign Up for the 3M Earplug Lawsuit Today
Don’t wait—take your next step now. Fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation with a 3M earplug lawsuit attorney. We’ll review your case, confirm your eligibility, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Join thousands of veterans holding 3M accountable—sign up today!
Possibly, if outside the MDL—contact an attorney fast; deadlines vary by state.
Varies widely—tens of thousands to millions, depending on injury severity.
Years for full resolution, but joining now may speed your claim.