Is It Difficult to Return a Hearing Aid?
Different states have different requirements for returning hearing aids, but 31 states and Washington, D.C., mandate return periods for hearing aids, usually within 30 days, with at least partial refunds. However, these are state minimums, and individual providers may offer much more generous return policies.
Returning Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are classified as medical devices, and they can be a substantial investment for many. However, a large portion are returned simply because they are considered uncomfortable or those who wear them have unrealistic expectations of what they will achieve in terms of hearing correction. Many states have passed laws that deal with hearing aids in particular, making it easier for those who are unsatisfied with them to return them. However, the best hearing aid providers often have policies that exceed the state minimums.
States With Defined Policies
The following states all have minimum trial periods and minimum refunds. This makes it much easier to ensure that your hearing aid is suitable for your needs and performs as expected.
| State | Trial Period Minimum | Refund Minimum |
| Alaska | 30 days for audiologists, physicians; 60 days if not | Full purchase price less 10% and cost of earmolds |
| California | 30 days | Total paid |
| Colorado | 30 days | Total less cost of materials and any return fee from the manufacturer |
| Connecticut | 30 days | Total less up to 12% |
| Washington, D.C. | 30 days | Total less 5% and cost of earmolds |
| Florida | 30 days | Total less 5% |
| Idaho | 30 days | Total paid |
| Illinois | 30 days | Total less restocking/dispensing fee |
| Kentucky | 30 days | Total less 10% |
| Louisiana | 30 days | Total less 15% |
| Massachusetts | 30 days | Total less 20% |
| Maryland | 30 days | Total less 10% (although some expenses can be added on if higher) |
| Maine | 30 days (60 days with valid medical reason) | Total less cost of earmolds and lab fees |
| Minnesota | 45 days | Total less $250 |
| Montana | 30 days | Total less dispensing fees |
| New Hampshire | 30 days | Total less unspecified fees |
| New Mexico | 45 days | Total less amount specified in contract |
| Nevada | 30 days | Total less $150/20%, whichever cost is lower |
| New York | 45 days | Total less 5% |
| Ohio | 30 days | Total less expenses as defined in sales contract |
| Oklahoma | 30 days | Total less 10%/$150, whichever cost is less |
| Oregon | 30 days | Total less 10%/$250, whichever cost is less |
| Pennsylvania | 30 days | Total less 10%/$150, whichever cost is less, excluding services that are specified as nonrefundable |
| Rhode Island | 30 days | Total |
| Tennessee | 30 days | Total less reasonable expenses |
| Texas | 30 days | Total less expenses |
| Utah | 30 days | Total less 15% or cost of returning to the manufacturer |
| Virginia | 30 days | Total less reasonable costs of evaluation |
| Vermont | 45 days | Total less 5%/$50 and cost of earmolds |
| Washington State | 3/30 days | Total (if within three days) or total less 15%/$150, whichever cost is less, if within 30 days |
| Wisconsin | 30 days | Total less cost of earmolds and evaluation/fitting |
| West Virginia | 30 days | Total less $125 |
States With No Refund Requirements
The following states have no refund requirements, although providers may offer refunds if they so choose:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Arizona
- Delaware
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Montana
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Wyoming