Navigating Medicare coverage for hearing health can be confusing. Many seniors are surprised to learn that Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids, leaving them liable for 100% of the costs. However, there are alternative ways to get coverage.

In this guide, we clarify exactly what is covered, how Medicare Advantage plans can fill the gap, and the latest options for Over-the-Counter (OTC) devices in 2026.

Quick Summary: The Bottom Line

• Original Medicare (Parts A & B): Does NOT cover hearing aids or routine hearing exams.
• Medicare Advantage (Part C): YES, most plans cover hearing aids and exams.
• Diagnostic Exams: Medicare Part B will cover hearing exams if your doctor orders them to diagnose a medical condition (e.g., vertigo or ear infection), but not for the purpose of fitting a hearing aid.

What Does Medicare Cover for Hearing Aids?

Original Medicare (Part A & Part B)

It is critical to understand that Original Medicare does not cover:

• Hearing aids.
• Exams for fitting hearing aids.
• Routine hearing exams (check-ups).

If you have Original Medicare only, you will pay 100% of the cost for hearing aids and routine exams out-of-pocket.

What Is Covered? Medicare Part B covers diagnostic hearing and balance exams if your doctor orders them to see if you need medical treatment. For example, if you are experiencing sudden hearing loss, dizziness, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus), Medicare will cover the exam to find the root cause.

• Your Cost: You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet the 2026 Part B deductible ($283).

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medicare Advantage is the primary way seniors get hearing aid coverage. These are private plans (like HMOs or PPOs) that replace Original Medicare.

• Coverage: In 2026, virtually all Medicare Advantage plans offer hearing benefits. This typically includes one routine exam per year and an allowance (e.g., $1,000–$2,000) toward the cost of hearing aids.
• Restrictions: You usually must see an in-network provider and may be limited to specific hearing aid brands.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for hearing aid coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan, you must:

1. Be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B.
2. Live in the service area of the plan you wish to join.

Correction on End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD):

• Correction: Unlike some older guidance, having ESRD does not grant you special access to hearing aids under Original Medicare. ESRD grants you eligibility for Medicare before age 65, but the coverage rules remain the same: no hearing aids unless you switch to a Medicare Advantage plan.

Out-of-Pocket Costs (2026 Update)

If you rely on Original Medicare for a diagnostic exam (to treat a medical issue, not for aids), here is what you can expect to pay in 2026:

• Part B Deductible: $283 per year. You must pay this amount before Medicare pays anything.
• Coinsurance: 20% of the cost of the exam.
• Hospital Copay: If the exam happens in a hospital outpatient setting, you may owe an additional facility copayment.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your costs will vary:

• Exams: Often $0 co-pay for routine exams.
• Devices: You generally pay a copay (e.g., $699 per ear) or any cost that exceeds your plan’s allowance.

New Option: Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids

As of recent FDA rulings, adults with mild to moderate hearing loss can purchase hearing aids directly from stores or online without a prescription or medical exam.

• Cost: These devices are significantly cheaper than prescription aids, often ranging from $300 to $1,500 a pair.
• Coverage: While Medicare does not cover these, they are a more affordable out-of-pocket option for those without a Medicare Advantage plan.

Other Ways to Pay for Hearing Aids

If you do not have Medicare Advantage and cannot afford out-of-pocket costs, consider these alternatives:

1. Medicaid: Eligibility varies by state, but many state Medicaid programs cover hearing aids for eligible low-income adults.
2. Veterans Affairs (VA): The VA provides hearing aids at no cost to veterans who are enrolled in VA health care and meet clinical eligibility for hearing loss.
3. Federal Employees: The Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program often includes hearing aid benefits.
4. Health Savings Accounts (HSA): You can use pre-tax dollars from an HSA or FSA to pay for hearing aids and batteries.

Next Step

Would you like me to look up the specific Medicaid hearing aid coverage rules for your state, or help you find a local SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) counselor to discuss Medicare Advantage options?

If you qualify for Medicare but don’t know where to start, we have licensed insurance agents ready to answer your questions and help you enroll in Final Expense, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement Insurance, and Prescription PartD plans.