For many people, hearing aids are a necessary part of staying connected, healthy, and independent. But with average costs ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 per device, one of the first questions people ask is: Will my insurance help pay for hearing aids?
The answer depends on your insurance provider, your plan type, and—sometimes—even your zip code. From Medicare and Medicaid to employer coverage and special hearing aid insurance policies, there are more options than ever, but also more confusion. This guide breaks it all down so you can make sense of your options and get the support you need—without overpaying.
Key Takeaways
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Traditional health insurance often doesn’t cover hearing aids, but Medicare Advantage, VA, or union plans may offer substantial benefits.
Specialty hearing aid insurance can help cover what warranties don’t, like loss, damage, or accidental wear.
There are more ways to save than you think, including financing, nonprofit programs, tax advantages, and membership discounts.
Do Health Insurance Plans Cover Hearing Aids?
While hearing loss is incredibly common—especially as we age—most private insurance providers don’t treat hearing aids the same way they treat other medical devices. Many individual and family plans exclude hearing aid coverage altogether, considering them elective rather than essential.
However, employer-sponsored plans (especially those from large companies, unions, or the federal government) may offer some level of coverage. That coverage can take a few different forms, such as a fixed reimbursement amount, a negotiated discount through partner providers, or an allowance that renews every few years.
Here’s a breakdown of how hearing aid benefits typically appear in insurance plans:
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Reimbursement: A set dollar amount ($500–$2,500) you can apply toward hearing aid purchases, often every 3 to 5 years.
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Discounted networks: Some insurers partner with hearing care networks (like TruHearing or Amplifon) to offer devices at lower prices.
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Allowances: A credit toward hearing aids when purchased through specific providers. This might apply per device or per ear.
Before assuming you’re covered, call your insurance provider or review your summary of benefits. It’s also a good idea to speak with your hearing care provider, who may be able to check benefits on your behalf.
Medicare and Hearing Aids
If you’re enrolled in Medicare, it’s important to understand that not all plans offer hearing aid coverage. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover hearing aids or the exams needed to fit them. This is often a surprise to many older adults who expected these costs to be included.
However, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, which are offered through private insurers, often include additional benefits—hearing aid coverage among them. These plans vary by provider and region but may include:
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A free annual hearing exam
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Partial coverage or discounts on hearing aids (often up to $2,500 every few years)
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Access to third-party care networks with negotiated pricing
These benefits are not guaranteed, so it’s important to compare plans carefully. Use the Medicare Plan Finder tool or contact a licensed Medicare agent to see which plans offer hearing benefits in your area.
Medicaid Coverage for Hearing Aids
Medicaid offers more consistent coverage for children’s hearing aids, which are mandated in all 50 states. However, coverage for adults varies widely by state. Some states provide full coverage for exams, fittings, and hearing aids, while others offer no adult benefits at all.
If you're an adult with Medicaid, contact your state’s Medicaid office or check the Hearing Loss Association of America’s Medicaid guide. Eligibility requirements, coverage limits, and approved providers will vary, but it’s worth investigating, especially if hearing loss is affecting your ability to work or communicate.
What Is Hearing Aid Insurance?
If your existing health plan doesn’t cover hearing aids—or only includes minimal benefits—dedicated hearing aid insurance may be worth exploring. This type of insurance helps protect your investment against the unexpected.
Hearing aid insurance is different from a manufacturer warranty. Most hearing aids come with a 1- to 2-year warranty that covers factory defects. But that won’t help if you drop a hearing aid in the sink, your dog chews it up, or you simply lose it while out and about.
That’s where a hearing aid insurance policy comes in. These plans offer protection against:
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Accidental loss or theft
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Damage from water, heat, or physical trauma
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Wear-and-tear repairs due to battery drain, wax buildup, etc.
They typically involve a premium (paid monthly or annually), and coverage is based on the value and brand of your devices.
Popular Hearing Aid Insurance Providers
There are a few major providers offering dedicated hearing aid insurance. Here’s how their offerings compare:
ESCO (Ear Service Corporation)
ESCO has two main plans—Protection Plus (loss/damage) and Platinum Plan (adds repair coverage). They insure most brands and devices, and replacement aids are matched closely to the originals.
Midwest Hearing Industries
One of the oldest hearing aid insurers, Midwest covers a range of scenarios including repair, replacement, and refitting. Their “Plus 150” plan even pays providers an additional $150 for service-related fees.
Audicus Care & Protect
Audicus offers its own plan tailored to its customers. It includes repair coverage, loss replacement, and unlimited cleanings. You can pay monthly or bundle it with your hearing aid purchase upfront.
Adding insurance at the time of purchase is usually easiest and ensures you're protected from day one.
How to Check If You Have Hearing Aid Coverage
Finding out whether your insurance plan includes hearing aid benefits can feel confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. Most people can determine their coverage with just a few phone calls or clicks.
Here’s a step-by-step approach:
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Call your insurance provider using the number on the back of your card. Ask specifically about hearing aid coverage, not just hearing tests.
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Ask key questions, like:
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Do I have a hearing aid allowance or reimbursement benefit?
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Is there a provider network I need to use?
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Do I need a referral or prior authorization?
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How often do these benefits renew?
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Contact your hearing provider, who may be able to run a benefits check for you.
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Check your employer or union HR portal, if applicable. Some offer additional benefits not listed in your core insurance documents.
The more specific your questions, the more helpful the answers will be.
Other Ways to Pay for Hearing Aids
If insurance falls short, don’t worry—there are several ways to reduce the cost of hearing aids without sacrificing quality. Many of these options can be combined for greater savings.
Veterans and TRICARE
The VA provides free hearing aids to qualifying veterans. TRICARE also covers hearing aids for active-duty service members and their families if the hearing loss meets certain criteria.
Union & Federal Employee Plans
Most union and government worker plans include hearing aid benefits. For example, the Federal Employee Program (FEP) through Blue Cross Blue Shield offers up to $2,500 every five years.
Financial Assistance Programs
There are nonprofit and government programs that help cover hearing aid costs for people who qualify. These include:
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Easterseals – Offers local assistance for low-income adults and children
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Travelers Protective Association (TPA) – Grants based on financial need, no age limit
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State vocational rehab offices – Help workers access hearing aids to remain employed
Tax-Advantaged Accounts & Deductions
You can use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to pay for hearing aids, batteries, and repairs. Hearing aids are also tax-deductible under medical expenses if you itemize your return.
When Should You Buy Hearing Aid Insurance?
Not everyone needs hearing aid insurance—but for some, it’s a smart way to avoid costly replacements. Consider buying insurance if:
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You have a history of losing or damaging devices
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Your hearing aids were expensive or top-tier
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You’re buying online and want peace of mind
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You lead an active lifestyle or travel often
It’s typically easiest and most affordable to purchase coverage within the first 30 to 60 days after getting your devices. Some insurers have age limits for devices they’ll cover, so the sooner you apply, the better.
Final Thoughts: Is Hearing Aid Insurance Worth It?
Hearing aid insurance isn’t required—but for many people, it offers real peace of mind. Whether or not it makes sense for you depends on your device’s value, your lifestyle, and what’s already covered under your health plan or warranty.
Even if you don’t have traditional coverage, remember: you’re not out of options. With financing, nonprofit support, tax advantages, and insurance add-ons, there are many ways to make hearing aids more affordable. Explore all your resources, ask questions, and choose the path that gives you the protection—and hearing—you deserve.
FAQs
Does Medicare cover hearing aids?
Original Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids, but many Medicare Advantage plans do offer partial coverage or discounts. Be sure to compare plans in your area before enrolling.
What’s the difference between hearing aid insurance and a warranty?
Warranties cover factory defects, while hearing aid insurance protects you against accidental loss, damage, and general wear that occurs with daily use.
Can I use my FSA or HSA to pay for hearing aids?
Yes. Hearing aids are eligible expenses under both FSAs and HSAs, including batteries, maintenance, and repairs.
Are there programs that help people afford hearing aids?
Yes. Easterseals, TPA, state rehab programs, and veterans' benefits all offer help depending on your income, job status, or service history.
Should I get insurance for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids?
OTC hearing aids are often more affordable, but still an investment. If your devices aren’t covered by a warranty or return policy, insurance may still offer protection—though not all providers cover OTC models.
