Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids? What You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re struggling to hear clearly — whether it’s the TV, phone calls, or conversations in public — you’re not alone. Hearing loss is one of the most common health issues among older adults, yet Original Medicare still doesn’t cover hearing aids. So what are your options if you’re on Medicare and need help with hearing care? Let’s break it down.

What Original Medicare Covers for Hearing

Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover:

Hearing aids
Hearing exams for fitting hearing aids
Batteries, repairs, or replacements

You’ll pay 100% out of pocket for these services under Original Medicare.

What It Does Cover:

Diagnostic hearing exams only if ordered by a doctor to diagnose a medical condition
Balance-related exams (like for vertigo or inner ear problems)

But even then, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and your Part B deductible applies.

How to Get Hearing Aid Coverage on Medicare

The most affordable way to get hearing benefits is through a Medicare Advantage plan(also called MAPD, or Medicare Part C).

Many MAPD Plans Offer:

Free annual hearing exams
Hearing aid allowances — from $500 up to $3,000
Low copays for hearing aids — sometimes as low as $0 to $699 per device
Access to preferred hearing aid providers and brands
Follow-up visits, adjustments, and some include batteries

Coverage varies by plan and ZIP code, and not all devices are included — but it’s often much better than paying full price.

FAQs: Medicare & Hearing Aids

1. Why doesn’t Medicare cover hearing aids?

Medicare considers hearing aids “routine” and not medically necessary, even though they’re essential to quality of life. There have been discussions in Congress to expand coverage, but no changes have passed yet.

2. Does Medigap cover hearing aids?

No. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans only cover what Original Medicare covers — and that does not include hearing aids.

3. Can I get hearing aids through Medi-Cal?

Yes — if you're dual eligible for Medicare + Medi-Cal, you may qualify for hearing aid coverage through Medi-Cal, depending on your income and eligibility.