How to Get Hearing Aids Through Medicare Advantage in 2026

Hearing aids can cost thousands, but many Medicare Advantage plans now cover them. Here's how to get hearing aids at little or no cost.

Hearing loss affects nearly one-third of Americans aged 65–74 and almost half of those 75 and older. Despite being a significant health concern, Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids or routine hearing exams. The good news? Many Medicare Advantage plans now include hearing benefits that can save you thousands of dollars. Here's how to take advantage of them.

Why Original Medicare Doesn't Cover Hearing Aids

When Medicare was created in 1965, hearing aids were excluded from coverage — and they still are under Original Medicare. Part B only covers diagnostic hearing exams ordered by a doctor to determine if you need medical treatment. It does not cover routine hearing tests, hearing aids, or fitting exams for hearing aids.

The Cost of Hearing Aids Without Coverage

Without insurance, a single hearing aid costs between $1,000 and $6,000, with most people needing two. The average pair costs $4,700. This puts hearing aids out of reach for many seniors on fixed incomes.

Medicare Advantage Hearing Benefits in 2026

In 2026, approximately 87% of Medicare Advantage plans offer some level of hearing benefits. Coverage varies significantly by plan, but here's what you can typically expect:

How to Get Hearing Aids Through Your MA Plan

Check your plan's Evidence of Coverage (EOC) document for hearing benefit details
Schedule a hearing exam with an in-network audiologist — many plans cover this at $0
Get a hearing evaluation and prescription if hearing loss is detected
Ask your audiologist which hearing aid brands and models your plan covers
Order your hearing aids through your plan's hearing benefit partner (e.g., TruHearing, Hearing Care Solutions, or NationsHearing)
Attend fitting and follow-up appointments — most plans cover these at $0
Take advantage of included batteries, repairs, or warranty coverage

Comparing Hearing Aid Sources

Other Ways to Save on Hearing Aids

Even if your current plan doesn't offer robust hearing benefits, there are other options to make hearing aids more affordable:

Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids: Since 2022, OTC hearing aids are available without a prescription for mild to moderate hearing loss. Prices range from $200–$1,500 per pair at retailers like Best Buy, Walgreens, and Amazon.
State assistance programs: Some states offer hearing aid assistance for low-income seniors through Medicaid or state-specific programs.
Nonprofit organizations: Groups like the Lions Club, Starkey Hearing Foundation, and Hearing Loss Association of America offer free or low-cost hearing aids to qualifying individuals.
Veterans benefits: VA provides hearing aids at no cost to eligible veterans.
Switch MA plans: During the Annual Enrollment Period, compare plans to find one with better hearing benefits for next year.