Let’s be honest — hearing aids are expensive. And if you’re relying on Medicare to help with those costs, the truth might surprise you. Every year, thousands of seniors are shocked to find that Original Medicare offers little to no assistance with hearing aids — even when they struggle to stay connected with loved ones or safely navigate daily life.
But 2025 brings some new updates, and Medicare Advantage might just be your best bet. If you’re looking for clear answers about coverage, copays, and which plans provide the most help, you’re in the right place.
Skyline Benefit, a trusted Medicare insurance broker, is here to break it all down — what Medicare and hearing aids in 2025 means, what’s changed, and how to get the coverage you need without drowning in out-of-pocket costs.
What’s the Problem with Medicare and Hearing Aids?
Let’s clear this up right now:
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does not cover hearing aids. It doesn’t cover the devices, the exams, or the fittings — nothing. You’d be on the hook for the full cost, which can range from $1,000 to $7,000 per pair depending on the brand and features.
That’s why so many seniors end up skipping them altogether — not because they don’t need them, but because they simply can’t afford them.
So What Does Medicare Cover for Hearing in 2025?
If you’re just on Original Medicare, coverage is limited to:
- Hearing exams only if ordered by your doctor as part of a diagnostic evaluation
- Balance-related inner ear tests (if medically necessary)
- Nothing for hearing aids themselves
But if you’re on a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) — that’s where things change.
Medicare Advantage and Hearing Aids in 2025
Here’s the good news:
More Medicare Advantage plans than ever before include hearing aid benefits in 2025. These benefits vary by carrier, but often include:
- Partial or full coverage for hearing aids
- Coverage for fittings and maintenance
- A network of approved audiologists
- Discounts on brand-name devices (like Oticon, Phonak, or Starkey)
- One set of hearing aids every year or two
- Annual hearing exams
And some carriers even offer $0 copays for basic hearing aids.
At Skyline Benefit, we partner with leading Medicare Advantage providers, including Anthem, Blue Shield, UCLA, Providence, SCAN, UnitedHealthcare, and more, to help seniors find real savings on hearing care.
What Are the Out-of-Pocket Costs?
Even with coverage, you’ll want to ask the right questions:
- Does the plan cover both ears?
- What’s the maximum benefit amount per year?
- Are follow-up visits included?
- Do I have to use in-network providers?
On average, Medicare Advantage plans can save you $1,000–$3,000 per year on hearing aids — but only if you enroll in the right one.
What About Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids?
Since the FDA approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, many seniors are tempted to opt for the self-serve route. These devices are more affordable (ranging from $200 to $600) and can be purchased at pharmacies or online — but they may not be suitable for everyone.
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are designed for mild to moderate hearing loss and don’t offer the same level of customization or support as prescription devices. Plus, Medicare does not cover them — so you’re still paying out-of-pocket.
How to Find the Best Hearing Aid Coverage with Medicare in 2025
Here’s how to protect your wallet — and your hearing:
- Review your current Medicare plan
- Are you on Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan?
- Compare 2025 Advantage plans that include hearing aid coverage
- Not all plans offer the same benefits
- Talk to a broker who actually listens
- We’re not here to push a plan — we help you choose what fits
At Skyline Benefit, we’ve helped hundreds of seniors switch to Medicare Advantage plans that provide real hearing aid benefits — without breaking the bank or getting lost in the fine print.
Need Help Navigating Medicare and Hearing Aids in 2025?
Skyline Benefit is a trusted Medicare insurance broker that simplifies the process and helps you choose a plan that truly works for your hearing and your budget. Whether you’re on Original Medicare or thinking of switching to a Medicare Advantage plan, we’ll help you find the right fit.
Schedule a consultation today. Call us at: (714) 888-5112