One of the biggest barriers to getting hearing aids isn’t the technology—it’s the cost. Many people delay treatment for years because they’re unsure whether insurance will cover hearing aids, or they assume they can’t afford them.
The truth is more nuanced. While hearing aids are rarely fully covered, there are financing options, insurance benefits, and strategies that can make them more affordable than you think. Here’s what you need to know as a North Carolina resident.
Does Insurance Cover Hearing Aids in North Carolina?
Most traditional health insurance plans—including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and others—do not cover hearing aids. Medicare, the federal insurance for people 65 and older, also does not cover hearing aids (though it does cover hearing evaluations).
However, there are exceptions:
Medicare Advantage plans (Part C): Some Medicare Advantage plans include hearing aid coverage or discounts. If you’re on Medicare, check your specific plan’s benefits—coverage varies widely.
Medicaid: North Carolina Medicaid covers hearing aids for eligible recipients, including children and some adults. If you qualify for Medicaid, this is a significant benefit worth exploring.
Veterans benefits: The VA covers hearing aids for eligible veterans at no cost. If you served in the military, contact your local VA office to learn about your benefits.
Workers’ compensation: If your hearing loss is work-related, workers’ compensation may cover hearing aids.
Employer plans: Some employer-sponsored health plans include hearing aid coverage. Check your benefits guide or ask your HR department.
What If Insurance Doesn’t Cover Hearing Aids?
If you don’t have coverage, you have several options to make hearing aids affordable:
Financing plans: Many hearing care providers, including The Hearing Guy, offer payment plans that spread the cost over 12, 24, or 36 months with little or no interest. This makes hearing aids accessible without paying the full amount upfront.
Hearing aid discount programs: Organizations like the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) offer discounts on hearing aids through partner providers.
Manufacturer programs: Some hearing aid manufacturers offer trade-in programs, rebates, or discounts for first-time users. Ask your hearing care provider about current manufacturer promotions.
Non-profit assistance: Organizations like the Lions Club and the Hearing Aid Project provide free or low-cost hearing aids to people who qualify based on income.
The Real Cost of Hearing Aids
Hearing aid prices vary based on technology level, features, and the provider. At The Hearing Guy, we work with all major manufacturers—Phonak, ReSound, Oticon, Signia, Widex, and Starkey—so you have options at different price points.
Rather than focusing on the sticker price, think about the long-term value. A quality hearing aid typically lasts 5–7 years. When you divide the cost across that time, the annual investment is often less than people expect. And the benefits—better hearing, reduced listening fatigue, improved relationships, and lower risk of cognitive decline—are worth far more than the cost.
What to Ask Your Hearing Care Provider About Cost
When you visit for a hearing evaluation, ask these questions:
- “Do you accept my insurance, and what will my out-of-pocket cost be?”
- “What financing options do you offer?”
- “Are there any current manufacturer rebates or promotions?”
- “What’s included in the price—fitting, programming, follow-up visits, repairs?”
- “Do you offer a trial period so I can make sure the hearing aids work for me?”
Hearing Care in Asheville and Hendersonville
At The Hearing Guy, we believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to better hearing. We work with your insurance, offer flexible financing, and help you understand all your options before you commit to anything. Our goal is to find a solution that works for your hearing needs and your budget.
If you’ve been putting off a hearing evaluation because of cost concerns, schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your hearing loss, your lifestyle, and the options available to you—including what your insurance might cover and what financing looks like.