Best Hearing Aid Insurance and Coverage Options for Seniors

Hearing loss is one of the most common health conditions among older Americans. According to the CDC, approximately 43.2% of adults age 70 and older have significant hearing loss. Despite how widespread this condition is, an estimated 70% of people who could benefit from hearing aids do not use them. Cost is one of the biggest barriers, with prescription hearing aids costing $2,000 to $7,000 per pair.

This article covers all the major ways seniors can get help paying for hearing aids, from Medicare Advantage plans and VA benefits to OTC options and Medicaid. Understanding your coverage options is the first step toward addressing hearing loss without breaking the bank. Plans and coverage vary by location, so it is important to compare the specific options available in your area.

Why Original Medicare Does Not Cover Hearing Aids

Original Medicare was created in 1965, and the law specifically excluded hearing aids from coverage. This exclusion has remained in place despite multiple legislative attempts to change it. Medicare Part B does cover diagnostic hearing and balance exams when ordered by a physician, and it covers cochlear implants as prosthetic devices. But standard hearing aids and the fitting exams for them are not covered. For a detailed breakdown, see our article on whether Medicare covers hearing aids.

This means if you are on Original Medicare, you need to find another way to cover the cost of hearing aids. The good news is that several options exist, and some can significantly reduce or even eliminate your out-of-pocket costs.

Medicare Advantage Hearing Benefits

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurers approved by Medicare. Many include hearing benefits that go beyond what Original Medicare covers. According to CMS data, a growing number of Medicare Advantage plans offer comprehensive hearing benefits. Here is what you can typically expect.

• Routine hearing exams: Many plans cover annual hearing exams at no additional cost, including hearing screenings and hearing aid fitting exams that Original Medicare does not cover.
• Hearing aid allowances: Plans may offer $500 to $3,000 or more per ear toward hearing aids every 1 to 3 years. For example, a plan might offer a $1,500 per ear allowance every 2 years. With this benefit, a $4,000 pair of prescription hearing aids would cost you $1,000 out of pocket.
• Preferred provider networks: Some plans partner with hearing aid providers and offer specific hearing aid models at a set copay, sometimes as low as $0 to $250 per aid. These network-based benefits can provide the best value.
• Follow-up care: Many plans also cover hearing aid fittings, adjustments, and follow-up appointments, which are essential for getting the most benefit from your devices.

When comparing Medicare Advantage plans for hearing benefits, pay close attention to the allowance amount, how often you can get new hearing aids, and whether the plan uses a specific network of hearing providers. Plans and benefits change annually, so review the Summary of Benefits for the current plan year.

OTC Hearing Aids: A Lower-Cost Alternative

In October 2022, the FDA finalized a rule allowing over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids to be sold directly to consumers without a prescription, audiologist fitting, or medical exam. This was a significant development for affordability. For a detailed cost and feature comparison, see our article on OTC hearing aids vs. insurance-covered hearing aids.

Key facts about OTC hearing aids:

• Cost: $200 to $3,000 per pair, with many quality options available in the $500 to $1,500 range.
• Who they are for: OTC hearing aids are intended for adults age 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. They are not designed for severe or profound hearing loss.
• Where to buy: OTC hearing aids are available at retail pharmacies, electronics stores, and online. No prescription or audiologist appointment is needed.
• Insurance coverage: Most insurance plans, including Medicare Advantage, do not cover OTC hearing aids. However, some plans are beginning to include OTC options in their hearing benefit networks.

OTC hearing aids have made hearing assistance more accessible for millions of Americans, but they are not a replacement for professional audiological care for those with more significant hearing loss.

Medicaid Hearing Coverage

Medicaid hearing benefits vary by state. Some states offer comprehensive hearing coverage, while others provide limited benefits or cover hearing aids only for certain populations. Here is what to know.

• State variation: Hearing aid coverage under Medicaid is optional, so each state decides whether and how much to cover. Some states cover one hearing aid per ear every 3 to 5 years. Others may cover the hearing exam but not the aids themselves.
• Dual eligibles: If you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid (known as being dual eligible), you may have access to hearing benefits through Medicaid that Original Medicare does not provide. Some dual-eligible special needs plans (D-SNPs) combine Medicare and Medicaid benefits, including hearing coverage.
• Income eligibility: Medicaid eligibility is based on income and varies by state. Contact your state Medicaid office to learn about eligibility requirements and hearing benefits in your area.

VA Hearing Benefits for Veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides some of the most comprehensive hearing benefits available. If you are a veteran enrolled in VA healthcare, hearing aids may be available to you at no cost.

• Hearing evaluations: The VA provides comprehensive audiological evaluations to assess your hearing and determine the best solution.
• Hearing aids at no cost: Eligible veterans receive hearing aids, fittings, and follow-up care at no charge. The VA provides both basic and advanced hearing aid models depending on your level of hearing loss and needs.
• Batteries and accessories: The VA also provides batteries and replacement parts for hearing aids at no cost to eligible veterans.
• Priority groups: Veterans with service-connected hearing loss receive the highest priority. However, veterans in other priority groups may also qualify for hearing aids based on their enrollment category and clinical need.

If you are a veteran, VA hearing benefits are often the best option available. You can use VA hearing benefits alongside Medicare or Medicare Advantage. Contact your local VA medical center to learn about eligibility and schedule a hearing evaluation.

Standalone Hearing Insurance and Other Options

Beyond Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and VA benefits, there are additional ways to help cover the cost of hearing aids.

• Standalone hearing plans: A few insurers offer standalone hearing plans or hearing benefit add-ons. These plans typically charge a monthly premium and provide a set allowance toward hearing aids and exams. They are less common than standalone dental or vision plans, so availability may be limited in your area.
• Hearing aid discount programs: Some organizations, including AARP, offer members access to hearing aid discounts through preferred provider networks. Discounts can range from 20% to 60% off retail prices.
• Charitable programs: Organizations like the Starkey Hearing Foundation and Lions Club International provide free hearing aids to people in financial need. Eligibility requirements and availability vary.
• Manufacturer financing: Many hearing aid manufacturers and audiology practices offer payment plans that allow you to spread the cost over 12 to 24 months, sometimes with no interest if paid within the promotional period.
• HSA and FSA funds: Both prescription and OTC hearing aids are eligible expenses for Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts. If you have these accounts, you can use pretax dollars to pay for hearing aids.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hearing Coverage

Selecting the right hearing coverage depends on your hearing needs, budget, and existing insurance situation. Here are practical tips to guide your decision.

• Get a hearing evaluation first: Before choosing a coverage option, understand your level of hearing loss. A diagnostic hearing exam covered by Medicare Part B can determine whether you have mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss, which affects whether OTC or prescription hearing aids are appropriate.
• Compare Medicare Advantage plans: If you are on Medicare, compare the hearing benefits of available Medicare Advantage plans in your area during the Annual Enrollment Period. Look at the hearing aid allowance amount, how often you can get new aids, and the provider network.
• Consider total cost of ownership: Hearing aids involve more than the purchase price. Factor in the cost of batteries or charging equipment, repairs, adjustments, and eventual replacement when comparing options.
• Try before you buy: Many audiologists and OTC hearing aid sellers offer trial periods of 30 to 60 days. Take advantage of these to make sure the hearing aids work well for you before committing.
• Check for bundled savings: If you need dental, vision, and hearing coverage, some Medicare Advantage plans and standalone bundle plans offer all three at a combined cost that may be less than purchasing each separately.

The Bottom Line on Hearing Aid Coverage

Hearing aids are expensive, but seniors have more options than ever to reduce the cost. Medicare Advantage plans offer the most accessible hearing benefits for those on Medicare, with allowances that can cover a significant portion of the cost. Veterans have access to comprehensive hearing care through the VA at no charge. OTC hearing aids have opened up affordable options for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. And Medicaid, charitable programs, and discount plans can help fill the remaining gaps. If you want coverage for dental, vision, and hearing together, explore our guide to the best dental, vision, and hearing bundle plans.

The most important step is to address hearing loss early. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, social isolation, and an increased risk of falls. Whatever coverage option fits your situation, getting help for hearing loss can significantly improve your quality of life.