Quick answer
Usually not, for adults. Most health plans and Original Medicare don’t cover hearing aids, though some Medicare Advantage plans do and some states require coverage. Nine states require state-regulated plans to cover hearing aids for adults, and 26 more require it for children only. Over-the-counter hearing aids, sold without a prescription since 2022, are a lower-cost option for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Key takeaways
- Most health plans and Original Medicare don’t pay for hearing aids.
- 9 states require coverage for adults and 26 more for children, but those laws don’t apply to self-funded employer plans.
- Hearing tests to diagnose a problem are usually covered as medical care, even when hearing aids aren’t.
- Adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss can buy OTC hearing aids without a prescription or exam.
- Hearing aids are HSA and FSA eligible and count as a deductible medical expense.
On this page
Who covers hearing aids
| Coverage | Hearing aids covered? |
|---|---|
| Most private health plans | Usually not, unless your state requires it or your plan adds it |
| State-regulated plans in mandate states | For adults in 9 states and for children in 26 more |
| Original Medicare | No. It covers diagnostic hearing exams |
| Medicare Advantage | Some plans include hearing benefits |
| Medicaid | Covers children; adult coverage varies by state |
The nine states with adult mandates are Arkansas, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington. These laws often set dollar limits and replacement schedules. They apply only to plans your state regulates. If your employer’s plan is self-funded, it follows federal rules instead; see is self-funded health insurance right for you.
Like some alternative treatments, hearing aids are often left out of standard coverage. Cochlear implants are different: many plans and Medicare cover them when you meet medical criteria.
Hearing tests
Health plans usually cover a hearing test to diagnose a problem. Original Medicare Part B covers diagnostic hearing and balance exams when your provider orders them, and you can see an audiologist once every 12 months without an order for hearing loss that develops over time. You pay 20% after the Part B deductible. Medicare doesn’t cover exams for fitting hearing aids. Newborns and children get hearing screenings as free preventive care; see health insurance for children.
Lower-cost options
- Over-the-counter hearing aids. Since October 17, 2022, adults 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss can buy them in stores or online without an exam. They’re not for severe hearing loss or for anyone under 18.
- Your plan’s discount program. Some insurers partner with hearing aid companies to offer lower prices even when they don’t cover the devices.
- HSA or FSA money. Hearing aids, batteries and repairs are qualified medical expenses.
- Tax deduction. If you itemize, hearing aid costs count toward medical expenses above 7.5% of your income; see is health insurance tax deductible.
- Veterans and job programs. Many veterans can get hearing aids through the VA, and state vocational rehabilitation programs sometimes help if hearing loss affects your work.
Prices for hearing aids and care vary a lot by provider and where you live; see which cities spend the most on health care.
If your plan covers hearing aids
Ask about the dollar limit, how often it replaces hearing aids, and which providers you must use. If you buy from a provider who doesn’t bill your plan, you may need to file the claim yourself.
Choosing a plan
If hearing aids matter to you, compare hearing benefits when you shop, especially if you’re choosing a Medicare Advantage plan. See the best health insurance companies, how many insurers to compare and how to switch health insurance companies.
Compare plans in your area: see quotes by ZIP code.
Frequently asked questions
Does Medicare cover hearing aids?
Original Medicare doesn’t. Some Medicare Advantage plans include hearing aid benefits.
Does insurance cover over-the-counter hearing aids?
Usually not, but you can use HSA or FSA money for them.
Does insurance cover hearing tests?
Usually, when the test is to diagnose a hearing problem. Medicare covers diagnostic hearing exams.
Are hearing aids tax deductible?
Yes, as a medical expense, if you itemize and your total medical costs are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.
Sources
This article is general information, not medical advice. Last reviewed September 2026.