Medicare Part B covers hearing aid exams, but not the devices themselves
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) will pay for a hearing test ordered by your doctor, but it does not cover the cost of hearing aids. This has been true for decades. Your doctor can refer you to an audiologist for the exam, and Medicare Part B covers that visit at 80 percent after you meet your deductible — you pay the remaining 20 percent.
The hearing aids themselves, the fitting, and the follow-up adjustments are your responsibility. A single hearing aid typically costs between $1,000 and $6,000 depending on the technology and features. Most people need two.
Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) do cover hearing aids, but coverage varies widely by plan and by year. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, call the plan directly to ask whether hearing aids are covered and what the out-of-pocket cost would be.
Key Takeaways
- Medicare Part B covers the audiologist visit for a hearing test, but Original Medicare does not pay for hearing aids or their fitting.
- Some Medicare Advantage plans include hearing aid coverage, but you must check your specific plan's benefits because they differ.
- Medicaid covers hearing aids in some states but not others, and coverage rules vary by state program.
- Veterans, TRICARE beneficiaries, and some state programs may cover hearing aids even if Medicare does not.
How to learn about your Medicare Advantage plan covers hearing aids
Call your plan's customer service number — it is on your insurance card. Ask whether hearing aids are covered under your plan, what the annual limit is (if any), and whether you need a referral from your primary care doctor. Write down the answers and ask for a copy of the coverage details in writing.
If your plan does cover hearing aids, ask which providers are in-network. Using an in-network provider usually means lower out-of-pocket costs. Some plans cover only certain brands or styles, so confirm that before you schedule an appointment.
Coverage can change from year to year, so even if your plan covered hearing aids last year, check again during the next open enrollment period (October 15 to December 7 each year). If your current plan no longer covers them and you need hearing aids, you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan during open enrollment.
Medicaid coverage for hearing aids by state
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program, which means each state sets its own rules about what it covers. Some states cover hearing aids for adults; others cover them only for children. A few states do not cover them at all.
To find out whether your state's Medicaid program covers hearing aids, contact your state Medicaid office directly. You can find your state office through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at medicaid.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and asking for your state Medicaid office phone number.
If your state does cover hearing aids through Medicaid, there may be a waiting list, an annual limit on the number of devices, or a requirement that you try less expensive options first. Ask about all of these when you call.
Other programs that may cover hearing aids
If you are a veteran, the Department of Veterans Affairs covers hearing aids and fitting for service-connected hearing loss. Call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or visit va.gov to find out whether you are covered.
If you have TRICARE (military health insurance), coverage for hearing aids depends on your TRICARE plan and whether your hearing loss is service-connected. Call your TRICARE regional contractor to ask about your specific coverage.
Some states run separate hearing aid programs for older adults or people with low incomes, outside of Medicaid. Your local Area Agency on Aging can tell you whether your state has one. Find your local agency at eldercare.acl.gov or by calling 1-855-500-3212.
What to do if Medicare does not cover your hearing aids
If you have Original Medicare and need hearing aids, you have several options. Some audiologists and hearing aid retailers offer payment plans or discounts for uninsured patients. Ask about these when you call to schedule your hearing test.
Costco, Sam's Club, and Walmart all sell hearing aids at lower prices than traditional audiologists, though the fitting and follow-up care may be more limited. Some nonprofit organizations, including the Hearing Loss Association of America, maintain lists of low-cost hearing aid programs in your area.
If you have limited income, you may be able to get help through your state's Medicaid program even if you do not currently receive Medicaid. Income limits vary by state. Call your state Medicaid office to ask whether you meet the income threshold.
How to get your hearing test covered by Medicare
Ask your primary care doctor for a referral to an audiologist. Your doctor does not have to refer you to a specific audiologist — you can choose one yourself. Medicare Part B will cover the audiologist visit if your doctor ordered the test for a medical reason (such as hearing loss affecting your balance or communication).
Bring your Medicare card to your appointment. You will pay your Part B deductible (if you have not met it for the year) plus 20 percent of the audiologist's fee. The audiologist's office can tell you what your out-of-pocket cost will be before the appointment.
If the audiologist recommends hearing aids, ask for a written summary of the recommendation. This document can help you when you explore for coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan, Medicaid, or another program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover hearing aid batteries?
No. Original Medicare does not cover hearing aid batteries. Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover them as part of their hearing aid benefit, but you will need to check your specific plan. If you need affordable batteries, ask your audiologist about bulk discounts or mail-order options.
Can I get a hearing aid covered if I just switched to a Medicare Advantage plan?
It depends on your plan's rules. Some plans cover hearing aids for new members right away; others have a waiting period. Call your plan's customer service number to ask when coverage begins. If your plan has a waiting period and you need hearing aids urgently, you may be able to switch plans during a special enrollment period if you have a may have access to life event.
What if my audiologist says I need two hearing aids but my plan only covers one?
Ask your plan in writing whether you can appeal the decision or request an exception. Some plans will cover two devices if your audiologist documents that you need both for medical reasons. Keep the audiologist's written recommendation and submit it with your appeal.
Does Medicare cover cochlear implants?
Yes, Medicare Part B covers cochlear implants and the surgery to place them if your doctor determines you are a candidate. This is different from hearing aids. Ask your doctor whether a cochlear implant might be an option for you.