Does Insurance Cover Hearing Aids? Your FAQ Guide

When you start researching hearing aids, one of the first questions that likely comes to mind is: “Does insurance cover hearing aids?” The answer isn’t always simple—but we’re here to help you navigate the possibilities.

We believe cost should never be a barrier to better hearing. That’s why we work with a wide range of insurance companies and provide financing options—to help you get the care you need. If you're unsure whether your insurance covers hearing aids, this guide is for you.

Do Insurance Plans Cover Hearing Aids?

Yes—some insurance plans do offer coverage for hearing aids. However, the extent of that coverage can vary widely depending on your provider, your policy, your location, and your age.

In general, there are three types of insurance coverage that may help with hearing care costs:

• Private Insurance (through an employer or individual marketplace)
• Medicare Advantage Plans
• Medicaid (state-specific)

Let’s break down what you need to know.

What Types of Hearing Care Might Be Covered?

Depending on your insurance plan, the following services may be partially or fully covered:

• Hearing evaluations or diagnostic tests (hearing screenings are always free at Beltone)
• Hearing aid fitting and dispensing
• Hearing aid devices (including one or two devices)
• Follow-up care, adjustments, or maintenance
• Assistive listening devices and accessories

Why Don’t All Insurance Plans Cover Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids are often classified as elective or “non-essential” medical devices by insurance companies, despite the critical role hearing plays in overall health and quality of life.

That said, many employers and insurance providers are beginning to recognize the long-term health risks of untreated hearing loss—such as social isolation, depression, and cognitive decline—and are expanding coverage options.

Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?

Traditional Medicare (Parts A & B) does not typically cover hearing aids or the exam needed to fit them (but remember that hearing screenings are free at your local Beltone). However, it may cover specialized hearing tests if ordered by your doctor to diagnose a medical condition.

Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C), which are offered through private insurers, often do offer some hearing aid coverage. These plans may include:

• Coverage for hearing exams
• Partial or full coverage for hearing aids
• Discounts on hearing aid models or accessories

Because every Medicare Advantage plan is different, you’ll need to check with your provider to learn what your plan includes.

Does Medicaid Cover Hearing Aids?

Medicaid coverage varies by state. Some states offer full or partial coverage for hearing aids, while others may only cover children or limit the number of devices covered over a specific time period.

If you have Medicaid, it’s a good idea to speak directly with your local provider. They can help determine if you’re eligible and guide you through the approval process.

What About FSA or HSA Accounts?

Yes! Hearing aids are typically considered eligible medical expenses for:

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA)

That means you can use your pre-tax dollars to pay for hearing aids, batteries, and related accessories. This is a great way to save money even if your insurance plan doesn’t offer coverage.

How Do I Know If My Insurance Covers Hearing Aids?

Because insurance coverage for hearing aids varies so widely, the best way to find out what your plan includes is to:

1. Contact your insurance provider directly. Ask about your benefits for hearing evaluations and hearing aid devices.
2. Bring your insurance card to your Beltone appointment. Our hearing care professionals can help verify your benefits and explain your options.
3. Let us do the work for you. Many Beltone locations offer complimentary insurance checks and benefit coordination.

What If I Don’t Have Coverage?

Even if your insurance doesn’t cover hearing aids, there are still ways to make hearing care affordable:

• Financing Plans: Many Beltone locations offer flexible financing options with low monthly payments.
• Promotions and Discounts: Ask about current specials or device trade-in programs.
• State and Local Assistance: Some state agencies or nonprofit organizations offer hearing aid assistance for qualifying individuals—including the Beltone Foundation.

Why It's Worth Exploring Coverage

Hearing aids are more than just amplifiers—they’re life-changing tools that help you stay connected, confident, and independent. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to:

• Cognitive decline and dementia
• Increased risk of falls
• Social withdrawal and depression
• Reduced quality of life

Investing in hearing care is investing in your overall health—and if your insurance helps cover the cost, that’s even better.

How Beltone Can Help

Navigating insurance coverage can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Beltone, we’re here to simplify the process and help you make the most of your benefits.

• We’ll verify your insurance for you.
• We’ll explain your benefits in plain language.
• We’ll work with you to find an affordable solution.

Whether you have private insurance, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, or no coverage at all, we’re committed to helping you hear your best and will make every effort to help you find a solution that fits your budget.

Get Started Today

Ready to find out if your insurance covers hearing aids? Schedule a free screening at your local hearing care center. Bring your insurance information with you, and our team will walk you through every step of the process—from hearing screening to benefit verification to personalized care options.

You might be surprised by what your insurance already covers—and how easy it is to get started.

Still Have Questions?

Here are a few quick answers to common hearing aid insurance questions:

Q: Can I use insurance and financing together?
A: In many cases, yes. If your insurance covers part of the cost, you can often finance the remainder through one of our flexible payment plans. Options will vary by location, so always discuss payment plans with your hearing care professional.

Q: Are hearing aid batteries covered by insurance?
A: Some plans may cover accessories like batteries or chargers. This depends on your provider and policy.

Q: How often will insurance pay for new hearing aids?
A: Some plans cover new hearing aids every few years, but this varies. We can help you find out your specific timeline.

Hear Better, Live Better—With Help From Beltone

Don’t let confusion about insurance stop you from taking the next step toward better hearing. Reach out to your nearest Beltone location today and let us help you find the answers—and the care—you deserve.