OTC hearing aids: A rapidly expanding market
If you’re in the market for a new pair of hearing aids, you’re in luck—you now have more options than ever to choose from. That’s because in October 2022, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) introduced regulations for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. Until then, you needed a prescription to buy hearing aids. But not anymore.
You can now purchase OTC hearing aids, designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, online or in stores without a hearing exam or prescription. While this expands access to hearing aids for millions of Americans, it also opens the door for shady companies to cash in on the new “OTC hearing aids gold rush.” With so many companies rushing to offer OTC hearing aids in this new marketplace, how can you separate the good from the bad actors?
Keep reading to learn how to spot scams, understand recent hearing aid regulation changes, and identify FDA-registered and FDA-cleared hearing aids.
Top 7 OTC hearing aid scams to avoid
With so many brands and models available, it can be hard to spot which products are reputable. Here are the top seven scams to watch out for:
1. Unknown brand names
Be cautious of companies with little or no online presence beyond a single website. Reputable OTC hearing aid brands are usually reviewed and featured on multiple trusted platforms, like third-party hearing or retail sites.
Also if the company seems very new and you can’t find information about the company that’s older than two years, it may be untrustworthy.
2. Misleading or vague labels
Legitimate OTC hearing aids must have clear labeling. Beware of terms like “hearing enhancement” or “sound amplifier,” which may indicate a product is not a true hearing aid.
Devices that meet FDA guidelines for hearing aids will clearly state their intended use, include access to a user manual, and describe any additional devices or accessories needed, such as smartphones or external microphones. Products labeled ambiguously or lacking this information may be personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) rather than hearing aids.
3. Fake FDA registration certificates
Some companies display misleading “FDA registration certificates” to appear legitimate. The FDA doesn’t issue such certificates. This has scam written all over it.
4. Too-good-to-be-true prices
While the cost of hearing aids is dropping, extremely low prices may be a sign of scams or PSAPs being marketed as hearing aids. Affordable hearing aids do exist, but legitimate options that include advanced features like Bluetooth streaming and automatic adjustments typically start at $800–$1,000 per pair.
Social media ads often advertise rock-bottom prices, but they may prioritize low costs over quality or transparency. For example, Nebroo hearing aids, which aggressively markets on Facebook, raises concerns due to vague product descriptions, questionable business practices, and privacy policies allowing unsolicited marketing.
5. No trial period or warranty
Most states require a minimum 30-day trial period for hearing aids.
Reputable companies often go above and beyond this requirement by offering extended trial periods (like Jabra Enhance’s 100-day return policy). If a brand does not provide a trial period or warranty, it’s a red flag.
6. Lack of customer support
A reliable company makes customer support accessible and responsive. If you can’t easily find contact information or experience delays in responses, consider it a warning sign.
It’s also fishy if the company offers support primarily through social media or YouTube videos. The company should have a robust internal customer support team.
7. Unsubstantiated claims
Be wary of exaggerated marketing language, such as claims that hearing aids can “cure” hearing loss or provide high-end features at minimal costs. Hearing aids improve hearing but cannot restore it to previous levels.
How to Avoid OTC Hearing Aid Scams
Check the Company’s Reputation
Research customer reviews on trusted platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or TrustPilot. Look for patterns, such as unresolved complaints or issues with trial periods and refunds. And pay attention to the company’s scores on sites like the BBB—the score reflects, in part, how well the company responds to and resolves complaints.
Wait to share sensitive information
Ignore companies that initiate contact via unsolicited calls or emails. Always make the first move when researching or purchasing hearing aids. If a company approaches you unsolicited and asks for personal information, that’s most likely a scam.
Get an in-person hearing exam
A professional exam can determine if OTC hearing aids will work for you or if you need stronger prescription devices. Some clinics offer free exams, and some private insurance plans may cover them. Medicare doesn’t usually cover hearing exams unless your doctor orders one to see if you need medical treatment for a related issue like balance problems.
Veterans receiving VA benefits may also qualify for free hearing exams and devices.
Understanding OTC hearing aids
In August 2022, the FDA established an official category for OTC hearing aids, aiming to make these devices more affordable and accessible. These hearing aids are regulated as medical devices and are designed for adults 18 and older with mild to moderate hearing loss.
OTC hearing aids offer greater flexibility and typically cost between $100 and $3,000 per pair, based on our research—significantly less than prescription devices, which start at around $1,500 and can exceed $7,000 per pair.
Hearing aids vs. PSAPs: How to spot the difference
Don’t confuse hearing aids with PSAPs. While hearing aids are medical devices regulated by the FDA, PSAPs are consumer electronics designed to amplify all sounds and are not intended for hearing loss.