Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids in 2025?

Hearing loss affects nearly one-third of people aged 65 to 74 and more than half of those over 75. Yet for decades, Medicare has excluded standard hearing aids from coverage. With average prices ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 per ear, the cost can be a major barrier for older adults on fixed incomes.

So what does Medicare actually cover in 2025? And what can you do to reduce your out-of-pocket costs? This guide breaks it down.

Original Medicare Coverage for Hearing Aids

Medicare Part A covers hospital stays but not outpatient items like hearing aids. Inpatient hearing loss evaluations may be covered if related to the hospital care, but this is rare.

Medicare Part B provides some outpatient hearing-related benefits:

• Diagnostic hearing and balance exams—covered under Part B only when ordered by a doctor to evaluate symptoms like vertigo or recent head injury
• Cochlear implants and BAHAs—covered under Part B when surgically implanted and medically necessary

What’s not covered under Original Medicare:

• Routine hearing exams
• Standard hearing aids
• Hearing aid fittings or maintenance

These exclusions are written into federal Medicare law and remain in effect as of 2025. Several proposed bills aim to expand hearing aid access, but none have passed as of mid-2025.

Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Differences

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans—offered by private insurers—combine Parts A and B and often include Part D prescription coverage. Many Medicare Advantage plans now offer extra hearing benefits.

Some plans cover:

• Partial or full cost of hearing aids (usually with annual or lifetime maximums)
• Routine hearing exams and fittings
• Coverage for maintenance or batteries

Typical limitations include:

• Annual benefit caps (often around $960, but varies by plan)
• Brand or provider restrictions
• Frequency limits (e.g., one device every 3–5 years)

Compare this with Original Medicare, which offers no routine hearing coverage and no hearing aid benefits.

Costs to consider when comparing plans:

• Monthly premiums
• Copayments and coinsurance
• Out-of-network penalties

To check whether your Medicare Advantage plan includes hearing coverage:

• Review the Summary of Benefits document
• Contact your plan’s member services
• Use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at medicare.gov

Learn more about Medicare Advantage coverage.

Alternative Hearing Assistance Devices Medicare Might Cover

While traditional hearing aids are excluded, Medicare sometimes covers alternative devices:

• Cochlear implants and BAHAs—covered under Part B when surgically implanted and deemed medically necessary
• Auditory osseo integrated devices—approved when standard hearing aids are ineffective

What’s not typically covered:

• Over-the-counter hearing aids
• Personal amplification systems for TV or phone use
• Assistive listening devices not deemed medically necessary

FDA-approved over-the-counter hearing aids became available in 2022 and cost less—but Medicare doesn’t cover them.

Some local programs or Medicaid extensions may support non-traditional devices. Solace advocates can help you determine what applies in your state.

How to Use Healthcare FSA/HSA Funds for Hearing Devices

Although Medicare doesn’t reimburse for most hearing aids, FSA and HSA accounts can help offset costs:

• Hearing aids qualify as medical expenses under IRS rules
• Funds can also be used for batteries, repairs, maintenance, and fitting services

Key differences between FSAs and HSAs:

• FSA: Use-it-or-lose-it rule; offered by employers
• HSA: Rolls over annually; tied to high-deductible health plans

Practical tips:

• Keep all documentation for purchases
• Confirm eligibility with your administrator before paying
• Consider timing larger purchases to match contribution cycles

Solace advocates can assist with FSA/HSA paperwork and planning strategies.

Other Financial Assistance Options for Hearing Aids

If you’re not covered by Medicare Advantage or don’t qualify for VA benefits, there are other options:

• Veterans benefits: Through the VA, veterans can receive free hearing aids and batteries if eligible
• Medicaid: Some states provide hearing aid benefits for low-income seniors
• Nonprofits: Lions Clubs, Hearing Aid Project, and others offer refurbished devices or financial aid
• Manufacturer programs: Some companies provide income-based discounts or trial devices
• State-level aid: Some programs help low-income seniors, especially during open enrollment windows

Solace advocates maintain a database of state and nonprofit resources and can help patients get on waiting lists or apply for support.

How a Solace Advocate Can Help Navigate Hearing Aid Coverage

Medicare hearing coverage can be difficult to interpret—especially when comparing Advantage plans, managing costs, and exploring non-covered options.

Solace advocates support you by:

• Reviewing your current Medicare plan to identify hearing-related benefits
• Helping you compare private plans during open enrollment
• Assisting with coverage denials or appeal documentation
• Connecting you to state and national assistance programs
• Helping you use FSA/HSA funds appropriately
• Providing personalized recommendations based on your hearing needs and financial situation

When you're facing hearing loss, navigating Medicare shouldn't make things harder. A Solace advocate can walk you through your options.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Coverage for Hearing Aids

1. What’s the difference between a bundled and unbundled hearing aid pricing model?

In a bundled model, the cost of the hearing aid includes services like fittings, cleanings, and adjustments. An unbundled model separates device and service costs, allowing you to pay only for what you need—something Solace advocates can help you evaluate for hearing aid affordability.

2. Are hearing aid fitting tests covered by Medicare?

Standard hearing aid fitting tests are not covered under Original Medicare. However, a diagnostic hearing exam ordered by your doctor may be covered under Part B if medically necessary. Some Medicare Advantage plans may also cover fitting services.

3. Who qualifies as a hearing care provider under Medicare rules?

Medicare recognizes audiologists and certain hearing instrument specialists, but coverage often depends on whether the provider is enrolled in Medicare and whether services are deemed medically necessary.

4. Does Medicare provide an over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid allowance?

No. Medicare does not currently offer an over-the-counter allowance for hearing aids. While OTC hearing aids are more affordable, they’re not reimbursed by Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage plans may include discounts or limited benefits.

5. What assistance is available for military families needing hearing aids?

Programs like TRICARE and the Air Force Aid Society may provide support for military retirees or family members. These programs sometimes offer hearing aid banks or direct financial assistance for qualified beneficiaries.

6. Can I use online hearing tests to qualify for hearing aid coverage?

Online hearing tests may help you assess hearing loss, but they don’t meet the clinical criteria for Medicare-covered diagnostic services. A formal evaluation by a Medicare-enrolled provider is required for coverage under Part B.

7. What types of implantable hearing devices are covered by Medicare?

Medicare may cover auditory brainstem implants and osseo-integrated devices if they’re medically necessary. Solace advocates can help gather proper documentation and guide you through the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) criteria used by Medicare.

8. What are the co-payment and maintenance costs for hearing aids under Medicare Advantage?

Co-payments and ongoing maintenance costs—like batteries, adjustments, and cleanings—vary widely by plan. Solace advocates help with plan comparison and navigating benefit caps or routine service restrictions.

9. Are there legislative efforts to expand Medicare hearing coverage?

Yes. The Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act of 2021 and Medicare Audiologist Access and Services Act of 2019 aimed to expand benefits, but have not yet passed. Advocates can monitor policy changes and help you take action during open enrollment.

10. What if I’m placed on a waiting list for nonprofit hearing aid assistance?

Lions Clubs and state hearing aid banks often have waitlists due to high demand. Solace advocates can help you track your application, find temporary solutions, and explore alternatives while you wait.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for professional advice. Information is subject to change. Consult your healthcare provider or a qualified professional for guidance on medical issues, financial concerns, or healthcare benefits.

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