Getting Hearing Aids Covered

The Reality

Hearing aids cost $1,000 to $6,000 per pair. Most private insurance plans don't cover them, and traditional Medicare doesn't either. But there are ways to reduce or eliminate your costs.

Check Your Insurance

Call your insurance company and ask:

• Do you cover hearing aids? (Many don't, but some do)
• Do you cover hearing evaluations? (Most do)
• Is there a hearing benefit through a partner like TruHearing?
• What's the maximum benefit amount?
• How often can I get new hearing aids?

Medicare

Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does not cover hearing aids or fitting exams. It only covers diagnostic hearing tests if ordered by a doctor.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans often include hearing benefits. Coverage varies by plan - some offer $500-$2,500 toward hearing aids every 1-3 years. Check your plan's Summary of Benefits.

Medicaid

Coverage varies by state. Some states cover hearing aids for adults, others don't. Check your state's Medicaid program or call your caseworker.

Assistance Programs

• Vocational Rehabilitation - If hearing loss affects your ability to work, your state's VR program may cover hearing aids.
• Lions Club - Local chapters sometimes provide free or low-cost hearing aids.
• Starkey Hearing Foundation - Provides hearing aids to those in need.
• HLAA - The Hearing Loss Association of America maintains a list of financial assistance programs.

Lower-Cost Options

• Costco - Hearing aids for $1,400-$2,500 per pair, including fitting and follow-up. You need a membership.
• OTC hearing aids - Available at Best Buy, Walgreens, Amazon for $200-$1,000. Good for mild to moderate loss.
• University clinics - Audiology schools often offer discounted services.

Tax Deductions

Hearing aids are a deductible medical expense. If your total medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, you can deduct the excess on Schedule A.

If you have an HSA or FSA, you can use those funds to pay for hearing aids and batteries tax-free.

Next Steps

1. Call your insurance and ask about hearing benefits
2. If on Medicare Advantage, check your Summary of Benefits
3. Consider OTC options if you have mild to moderate loss
4. Look into Costco or university clinics for lower prices
5. Check state Vocational Rehabilitation if hearing affects work