Does Your Insurance Cover Hearing Aids?
Find out what your plan covers, what it costs out-of-pocket, and how to save money on hearing aids.
What type of insurance do you have?
Select the one that best describes your coverage.
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Understanding Hearing Aid Coverage
The State of Hearing Aid Coverage
Despite nearly 30 million Americans experiencing hearing loss, insurance coverage for hearing aids remains frustratingly limited. Original Medicare still doesn't cover hearing aids, though recent legislative efforts continue to push for change. The good news: the 2022 introduction of OTC hearing aids created more affordable options, and many Medicare Advantage plans have added hearing aid benefits to stay competitive.
Money-Saving Strategies
Don't overpay for hearing aids. OTC options work well for mild to moderate loss and start around $200. Costco hearing centers offer premium brands at 50-60% less than traditional audiologists. Use HSA/FSA pre-tax dollars, deduct costs on your taxes, and always ask about manufacturer financing. Some warehouse clubs and online retailers now offer quality devices at a fraction of the traditional cost.
How to Appeal a Denial
If your insurance denies hearing aid coverage, don't give up. Request the denial in writing, then file a formal appeal with your doctor's letter of medical necessity. Include your audiogram, documentation of how hearing loss affects daily life, and any supporting research. Many denials are overturned on appeal — insurance companies count on people not fighting back.
Questions & Answers
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover hearing aids or fitting exams. However, Medicare does cover diagnostic hearing tests when ordered by a doctor. Many Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) now include hearing aid benefits ranging from $500 to $3,000. If hearing aid coverage is important to you, comparing Medicare Advantage plans during open enrollment is your best bet.
Coverage varies widely. Many Medicare Advantage plans, some state Medicaid programs, and some private insurance plans cover hearing aids partially or fully. Federal employees under FEHB often have hearing aid benefits. The VA provides hearing aids to eligible veterans. The best way to know is to call your insurance provider directly and ask about your specific hearing aid benefit.
Yes! The IRS considers hearing aids a deductible medical expense. You can deduct hearing aid costs (including batteries, maintenance, and repairs) on your federal tax return if your total medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. Keep all receipts and documentation from your audiologist.
Prescription hearing aids typically cost $1,000 to $3,500 per ear. Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, available since 2022 for mild to moderate hearing loss, range from $200 to $1,600 per pair. Costco hearing centers offer quality brands at lower prices. Financing options like CareCredit can help spread the cost over time.
It depends on your state. Some states like Arkansas, Connecticut, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Wisconsin provide full hearing aid coverage for adults on Medicaid. Many other states cover hearing aids only for children under 21 (required by federal EPSDT law). Contact your state Medicaid office for current benefits — coverage changes frequently.
Absolutely! Hearing aids, hearing aid batteries, hearing tests, and audiologist visits are all eligible expenses for Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). This effectively lets you pay for hearing aids with pre-tax dollars, saving you 20-35% depending on your tax bracket.
Don't let cost keep you from hearing
Whether you're figuring out insurance, waiting on coverage, or looking for affordable options — there's a path forward for everyone.
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