The challenge of affording hearing aids
More than 37 million Americans live with hearing loss, including over half of adults over 75. Despite the benefits of hearing aids, many delay purchasing them for nearly nine years after diagnosis. This delay, often driven by cost, leaves individuals vulnerable to risks such as depression, dementia, and higher health care expenses.
Navigating financial aid options can feel daunting. To help, we’ve created this guide to simplify the process. Here, we cover ways to get help paying for your hearing aids, from reviewing your insurance status and finding community-specific resources to comparing discount programs.
Paying for hearing aids with insurance
If you have insurance, checking with your provider is the first step to understanding how much hearing aid coverage, if any, you have with your plan. While connecting with your insurance provider, ask about additional services, such as activation and fitting, and the availability of participating providers in your area. Make sure to get clear answers to avoid surprises, like unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Private insurance
Most private insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids for adults, but some states—like Arkansas, Connecticut, Illinois, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island—mandate coverage. To confirm your benefits, contact your insurance provider or ask your hearing clinic to assist; they’re often familiar with navigating insurance processes.
Medicare
- Original Medicare (Parts A and B): Does not cover hearing aids but may include hearing and balance exams ordered by a doctor.
- Medicare Advantage (Part C): Many plans offer hearing aid benefits, such as discounted devices or coverage through third-party vendors. Check your plan’s specifics to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Medicaid
Medicaid coverage varies widely by state and plan. Some states cover hearing aids for adults, but eligibility and benefits can differ even at the county level. To learn more, check Medicaid.gov for state-specific details.
TRICARE
Active-duty military members, retirees, and their families may qualify for hearing aids through TRICARE-approved providers. Visit the TRICARE hearing aid page for more details.
If you’re unsure about insurance
If you’re unsure about your coverage, call the number on your insurance card or visit Healthcare.gov. Hearing clinics can also help clarify your insurance status and potential benefits.
Community-specific hearing aid resources
While contacting your insurance provider is a smart first step, it’s also important to consider community-specific resources. You may be able to access free or low-cost hearing aids if you are a military veteran, government employee, or member of an American Indian or Alaska Native community.
Veterans
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers extensive hearing aid benefits. Register for VA medical care to access these services. If you need assistance, accredited representatives can help you navigate the process. Visit VA.gov to learn more.
Federal employees
Federal workers can explore the Federal Employee Program (FEP) through Blue Cross Blue Shield. The program offers discounts and allowances of up to $2,500 every five years for hearing aids and related services.
Government employees
If you are a government employee, you may be able to access discounted hearing aids through the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE). You can learn more about their coverage and your eligibility at the AFGE Hearing Care discounts page.
Hearing aid resources for workers: State vocational rehabilitation programs
State vocational rehabilitation services help people with disabilities to gain or maintain employment. If you need hearing aids to keep your current job or to get a new one, your local agency may be able to help cover the cost.
American Indian and Alaska Native Communities
The Indian Health Service (IHS) provides audiology services, including hearing aids, to eligible individuals. Visit IHS.gov for more information.
Discount programs and financing plans
Discount networks
- Yes Hearing: Yes Hearing offers name-brand hearing aids at up to 40% off retail prices, with in-home consultations and fitting services.
- AARP hearing discounts: AARP members with UnitedHealthcare coverage can access free exams, hearing aids starting at $699 per ear, and discounts on accessories.
- Brand discounts: Some brands, like Lexie, have an online outlet offering previously discontinued or refurbished hearing aids at a significant discount.
Financing options
Many hearing aid clinics and OTC companies provide payment plans. For example:
- Subscription plans: Some hearing aid companies, like Audicus, offer subscription plans for their hearing aids
- Retailers like Best Buy and Walgreens: Partner with financing options like Affirm. Be cautious of high interest rates and review terms carefully.
National and local resources for financial assistance
If you cannot afford hearing aids through the above resources, many financial assistance programs can help cover the cost. While we list some of our favorites below, you can also review hearing aid programs through the Hearing Aid Project directory.
Nonprofit organizations
Several nonprofit organizations, like Easter Seals and the Help America Hear Program, often provide free or low-cost hearing aids for those in need.
Miracle-Ear Foundation
The Miracle-Ear Foundation’s Gift of Sound program provides free hearing aids and support to low-income individuals. There’s a $200 non-refundable application fee, but all services afterward are included.
Community service organizations
Civic groups like Lions Clubs International, Kiwanis, and Rotary International often assist with hearing aid costs.
Financial considerations when choosing hearing aids
Mild to moderate hearing loss
For mild hearing loss, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids may be a budget-friendly solution. They’re beneficial if you’re tech-savvy and comfortable fitting the devices yourself.
Full cost transparency
When comparing options, remember that the cost of the device is only part of the expense. Services like fittings, follow-ups, and warranties are often bundled in.
Free hearing tests
Online hearing tests can provide a preliminary understanding, but a professional audiologist’s evaluation ensures better outcomes.
Why trust Aging in Place
The team at Aging in Place knows hearing aids. We’ve deeply researched and tested to ensure we can give you accurate information on hearing aids, including when to get them, finding a good deal, and taking care of your devices.