Information
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance for hearing help is often available to beneficiaries of public assistance programs and to others on a limited budget. First ask your local hearing center, ear doctor, or hearing healthcare professional. He or she may be aware of local assistance programs. Possible sources of financial help are as follows:
LOCAL
- Department of Social Services, Human Services (listed in the telephone directory under city and state government). In many states, Medicaid offers assistance to those with speech, hearing and language disorders who qualify. Medicare may provide funds for testing and medical treatment, but does not fund hearing aids at this time.
- Mayor's office (Community services - listed under city governments).
- Chamber of Commerce (listed in the white pages).
SOCIAL SERVICE AND CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
Local chapters of many social service organizations have special programs for people with hearing loss. Contact local social service organizations in your area, or local chapters of the following service organizations:
- Lions' Clubs International
- Kiwanis
- National Easter Seals Society
- Sertoma International
- United Way
- March of Dimes
- Rotary Club
- Optimist Club
There are also a number of charitable organizations specializing in hearing healthcare which at times will provide grants for hearing aids. Visit the BHI website for up-to-date information.
STATE
- Contact your State Department of Rehabilitation Services (or Department of Vocational Rehabilitation).
- For aid to children, try the Maternal and Child Health Service and the Youth Projects divisions of your State Department of Human Services.
FEDERAL
- The Veterans Administration provides hearing aids to eligible veterans. Veterans should contact their nearest VA office or hospital for information.
CORPORATE
- Your health insurance provider, union or employer may offer financial assistance for hearing aids or audiological services either through reimbursement or as part of a hearing healthcare agreement entitling you to a discount on hearing aids.
- Many employers have flexible spending accounts in effect enabling you to purchase hearing aids on a pre-income tax basis.
- Under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) you may be eligible for hearing aids or other assistive technology if it is needed to perform your job.
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