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Original Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids, but it does cover certain hearing diagnostics.
Medicare Advantage plans usually offer hearing coverage, but often involve out-of-pocket costs.
There’s good news for people paying out of pocket for hearing aids: Hearing aids are available over the counter (OTC), and those hearing aids can be considerably cheaper than prescription ones.
Here’s what you need to know about Medicare coverage for hearing aids.
Does Original Medicare cover hearing aids?
You'll likely have to pay out of pocket for hearing aids and related hearing exams and fittings if you have Medicare Part A and/or Part B.
Original Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids. Neither do most Medigap plans — but you might find some that offer add-on hearing coverage for an extra cost.
There are two scenarios when Original Medicare covers certain hearing services, according to Medicare.gov:
- With a doctor’s order, you’re covered for diagnostic hearing and balance exams to find out whether you need medical treatment.
- Up to once per 12 months without a doctor’s order, you can see an audiologist for non-acute hearing conditions (like gradual hearing loss) or diagnostic services related to hearing loss treated with surgically implanted hearing devices.
Shopping for Medicare plans? We have you covered.
Medicare Advantage is an alternative to traditional Medicare offered by private health insurers. It covers the same benefits as Medicare Part A and Part B.
- States available48 states and Washington, D.C.
- Members in high-rated plansMedium (50% to 84%)
- Member satisfactionAverage
(855) 432-0512 / TTY 711
M-F 9AM-9PM, Sat 10AM-6PM ET
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- States available46 states and Washington, D.C.
- Members in high-rated plansLow (49% or less)
- Member satisfactionAbove average
(855) 432-0512 / TTY 711
M-F 9AM-9PM, Sat 10AM-6PM ET
Speak to a licensed insurance agent on askchapter.org
Get a quote
On NerdWallet
Does Medicare Advantage cover hearing aids?
Medicare Advantage plans are sold by private health insurance companies, and their benefits vary.
By law, Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) must provide at least as much coverage as Original Medicare — though it can come with additional costs and network restrictions. Many plans also offer extra benefits.
Most Medicare Advantage plans do cover hearing aids, although there may be out-of-pocket costs and/or limits on the maximum amount they'll pay. Your initial hearing exam may even be free if you use an in-network doctor.
Copays for hearing aids vary dramatically among insurers, ranging from $0 to well over $1,000 per hearing aid. For this reason, it’s important to examine and compare Medicare Advantage plans carefully before making your choice.
🤓 Nerdy Tip
Check whether prices, out-of-pocket costs and maximum allowances are per pair or per hearing aid — insurance companies and hearing aid sellers vary. If you have Original Medicare and want to switch to Medicare Advantage, you can make the move during the annual Medicare open enrollment period from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. During the Medicare Advantage open enrollment period from Jan. 1 to March 31, you can switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
» MORE: Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
How much do hearing aids cost?
Prescription hearing aids: $1,000 to $8,000 per pair
The price for a pair of prescription hearing aids typically ranges from around $1,000 for low-end models to as much as $8,000 for premium devices. This price tag may also include a consultation, hearing test, fitting and follow-up adjustments. Some sellers include periodic cleanings, battery replacements and a warranty that provides future cleanings, fittings and protection against damage or loss.
Over-the-counter hearing aids: $100 to $2,500 per pair
Much less expensive OTC hearing aids are on the market. The average cost of OTC hearing aids is about $930 per pair, compared to $3,300 for prescription hearing aids, according to the National Council on Aging.
Some budget models can cost as little as about $100 per pair. On the higher end, premium models can cost as much as $2,500 per pair, overlapping with some prescription hearing aid prices.
Hearing aid discounts
You might be able to lower your costs by asking about discounts. When purchasing hearing aids, ask what discounts are available. Veterans, union members and people with company retirement plans or other kinds of insurance may have access to additional price breaks.
How do I know whether I need hearing aids?
Hearing loss can be gradual and subtle, so sometimes it’s hard to determine whether it has really gotten that bad. The best way to know whether you’d benefit from hearing aids is by having a hearing exam. Here are a few signs that it's time to think about scheduling one:
- Everyone keeps telling you the TV or the radio is too loud.
- It’s hard to understand what people are saying when you can’t see their faces.
- It often sounds like others are mumbling.
- You’re struggling to hear conversations in group settings like dinner gatherings or parties.
- You’re missing some of what the actors say in movies or at plays.
- You often have to ask others to repeat themselves.
- It can be hard to hear on the phone.
- It has become difficult to hear higher-pitched voices or sounds.
- You don’t always hear the phone or doorbell ring.
To set up a hearing exam, contact your primary doctor or health care provider for more information or a referral, if necessary.
Medicare Advantage companies
Get more information below about some of the major Medicare Advantage companies. These insurance companies offer plans in most states. The plans you can choose from will depend on your ZIP code and county.
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- 1. The National Council on Aging. How to Choose the Right Hearing Aids. Accessed Mar 30, 2026.
