3M Earplugs Settlement 2026: Payout Chart, Timeline, and DPP Updates

The $6.01 Billion 3M Combat Arms Earplugs settlement remains one of the largest mass tort cases in U.S. history. As we enter 2026, the focus has shifted from initial filings to the actual distribution of funds for over 250,000 eligible veterans and service members.

The 2026 Payout Timeline: What to Expect

As of early 2026, the settlement administration is operating in two main phases:

• Expedited Payment Program (EPP): Most EPP claimants have already received their fixed-amount payments.
• Deferred Payment Program (DPP): For those who chose the DPP, 2026 is the primary year for fund distribution. Points have been calculated based on medical evidence, and payments are being released in massive batches throughout the first half of the year.

3M Settlement Payout Chart (Jan 2026 Update)

The following table outlines the estimated compensation based on injury severity and the Strength of medical evidence:

Injury Level	Compensation Range	Payout Priority
Level 1 (Tinnitus/Mild Loss)	$7,000 – $10,000	High
Level 3 (Moderate Loss)	$16,000 – $24,000	Processing
Level 5 (Severe Disability)	$100,000 – $250,000	Detailed Review
Extraordinary Injury (EIF)	Up to $700,000	Judicial Review

Who is Eligible for the 2026 Distribution?

To remain eligible for current and future payouts, veterans must ensure their records are updated in the BrownGreer Portal:

• Service Requirement: Must have served between 2003 and 2015.
• Equipment: Proof of use of CAEv2 (dual-ended) earplugs.
• Diagnosis: Documentation of tinnitus or hearing loss prior to the settlement cutoff dates.

Extraordinary Injury Fund (EIF)

Claimants with severe, life-altering hearing damage may be eligible for the Extraordinary Injury Fund. This fund is designed to provide additional compensation beyond the standard levels, potentially reaching up to $700,000 for those with the most documented trauma.

How to Check Your Status

“Claimants are advised to monitor their status via the official BrownGreer Combat Arms Settlement Portal.”for notifications regarding their payment batch.

Questions about your claim? Our team at The Case Metric is dedicated to providing the latest legal updates for veterans. For inquiries, email us at: info@thecasemetric.com.