What You Should Know About Hearing Amplifiers

  • According to a study by the NIDCD Epidemiology and Statistics Program, over 28 million people could benefit from a hearing aid or amplifier. 
  • Hearing amplifiers are an affordable option for those who need assistance with their hearing.
  • A hearing amplifier raises the volume of every sound around the wearer, as opposed to a hearing aid that can zone in on frequencies and specific types of audio.
  • A hearing aid can be very expensive, while hearing amplifiers can cost significantly less.
  • Some Medicare Part C plans and some state Medicaid plans can cover the cost of hearing amplifiers.

Hearing loss is a serious issue that affects many people of all ages. According to a 2015 study by the NIDCD Epidemiology and Statistics Program, about 28.8 million people in the United States could benefit from a hearing aid. While hearing amplifiers aren’t as powerful as a hearing aid, they can provide quite a bit of improvement for a person’s hearing.

Hearing amplifiers are small audio devices that anyone can purchase without a prescription from an audiologist. They take in sounds from the surrounding environment and digitally clarify them, delivering clear, focused sound. These devices aren’t customized to any one person’s specific hearing needs, but they can greatly improve the quality of sound for someone who struggles to hear. Most models provide a wide variety of settings to give users many different options when trying to improve their hearing.

Many companies sell hearing amplifiers, and each one is unique. Some devices simply raise the volume of the nearby sound while others work to reduce background noise, focus on specific frequencies, or control bass and treble levels. Depending on your exact hearing issue, certain hearing amplifiers may be more beneficial than others, regardless of price or popularity. We created this guide to help you understand the different hearing amplifiers on the market and how to choose the best one for you. 

Hearing Amplifiers vs. Hearing Aids

Hearing amplifiers, also known as personal sound amplifiers or PSAs, are devices that help raise the volume and clarity of the sounds around you. These devices can be useful for those who don’t have major hearing issues but still struggle to hear clearly in a variety of situations.

Hearing aids are a different type of device. They are prescribed by an audiologist after the patient takes a hearing test. Hearing aids are custom-fit to the needs of a specific person while hearing amplifiers are an ‘over-the-counter’ solution to hearing issues. Just like a pair of reading glasses from the pharmacy is different from a prescription pair of glasses, a hearing amplifier is different from a prescription hearing aid.

Discussing your hearing needs with an audiologist is a good idea before making a purchase. No matter how high quality the amplifier may be, it may not be a good fit if you truly need a hearing aid. A doctor can explain your specific hearing issues and you can get a prescription hearing aid or a specific hearing amplifier that helps with your problem.

Don’t be confused by websites that claim to sell hearing ‘aids’ without a prescription. The term ‘aid’ is a catch-all term that everyone will recognize, so some companies decide to use it to describe its amplifiers. Any hearing device you can purchase without a prescription is a hearing amplifier and not a hearing aid.

How We Chose The Best Hearing Amplifiers

A lot of factors go into defining the best hearing amplifiers on the market. We wanted to focus on vital aspects of each hearing amplifier to ensure that the product delivers a high-quality hearing experience. We also wanted to consider various preferences and options that would appeal to a variety of customers.

  • Product Price: Costs of hearing amplifiers can vary by a lot, with some models costing $50 and others costing $1000. To keep costs low for our readers, we only included hearing amplifiers that cost under $1,000 on this list. 
  • Ratings and Reviews: Researching a company’s Better Business Bureau rating can provide insight on how they handle problem resolution. A company’s Google rating can show what real customers think of the business. For our list, we only considered companies with a BBB rating of B or higher, as well as a Google rating of 4.5 or higher wherever possible.
  • Battery Strength: Rechargeable batteries can be vital for some owners of a hearing amplifier. Battery life can also be very important for users who plan to be out and about for long periods. We only considered hearing amplifiers that featured batteries that could last a full 10 hours or longer, regardless of rechargeability.
  • Multiple Settings: Users of hearing amplifiers may struggle to hear in certain environments, such as busy spaces or quiet spaces. We favored hearing amplifiers that had more than one environmental setting and some models featured as many as four.
  • Physical Control Options: While many hearing amplifiers feature smartphone app for making adjustments, some users may prefer to have the option to make changes right on the amplifier itself. We favored hearing amplifiers that featured both smartphone apps and physical controls, giving users an option of how they want to change the settings.
  • Ease of Maintenance: A hearing amplifier cleaning kit can help users maintain their amplifier, providing longer-lasting sound quality. In our research, we found that some models featured cleaning brushes while others did not. We favored hearing amplifiers that featured an accessory that helped keep the device clean.

Comparison of The Best Hearing Amplifiers

Brand and Device

Price

Company Rating (BBB / Google)

Battery Type / Life

Listening Environment  Setting Options

Smartphone App?

Physical controls present?

$799.99 (single) - $999.99 (pair)

>B+ / 4.5

Not rechargeable, 100h

4

Groove - $795 (pair)

A / 4.6

Rechargeable, 10h

4

Atom - $99 (pair)

B / 4.5

Rechargeable, 25h

1

CS50+ - $349.99 (single(L or R)) $409.99 (ext warranty)

A+ / 4.8

Rechargeable, 12h

3

Vento - $49.50 (Single) $89.50 (Dual)

A+ / 5

Rechargeable, 35-50h

2

Pocketalker - $155

A+ / 5

Not rechargeable, 100h

1

BLJ-109 - $68.99

Not Available

Rechargeable, 45-60h

3

Reviews of the Best Hearing Amplifiers

The CORE from MDHearing Aid

Most Advanced Technology for a Hearing Amplifier

CORE from MDHearing Aid

The CORE from MDHearing Aid offers a wide range of convenient features and amplifier technology. The company offers three different hearing aids, but the CORE is by far the best of the best. At $999.99 for a pair, it’s the most expensive hearing amplifier we reviewed.

The CORE offers what the company calls ‘intelligent’ noise reduction, working almost like a prescription hearing aid to understand sound and adjust accordingly. The four environmental settings make it easy to find a setting that fits your current location. The company offers a standard 45-day return policy but only a 90-day warranty whereas others offer up to 1 year.

Overview of the CORE from MDHearing Aid

 

CORE

Cost

$999.99 (pair) or $799.99 (single)

Company Rating

BBB rating of B+, Google rating of 4.5

Battery Style

Not rechargeable, 312 button battery, lasts 5-6 days (100+ hours)

Listening Environment  Setting Options

Smartphone Enabled?

Yes - App can adjust noise reduction, equalizer, volume; adjust each ear independently

Physical Controls?

Physical volume buttons and environmental settings

Return Policy

45-day return policy, 90-day warranty

Key Specifications

The CORE from MDHearing Aid sports a wealth of features that make hearing easier. The ‘intelligent’ noise reduction technology works to lower the volume of ambient sound to better clarify speech. Feedback cancellation and a dual-directional microphone help users to pick up the sounds that are important. Overall, the CORE has more advanced technology than other hearing amplifiers we reviewed.

·         Powerful amplifier technology that detects noise and adjusts for best sound possible.

·         Convenient smartphone app that allows for tons of customization.

·         Small battery that provides days-worth of power.

·         24/7 US-based customer service is always available to answer customer questions.

·         Online hearing test that can help determine level of hearing loss.

Pros and Cons of the CORE from MDHearing Aid

Pros:

  • Adaptive technology for superior sound
  • Feature-rich smartphone app as well as physical volume buttons
  • Four environmental settings, more than most amplifiers
  • Long-lasting battery

Cons:

  • Costly at $999.99 per pair or $799.99 for single
  • No rechargeable battery

The Groove from Otofonix

Most Customization Options for a Hearing Amplifier

The Groove from Otofonix

The Groove from Otofonix is highly customizable and easy to set up. Users can only make adjustments from the app, but it allows users to change volume, turn on noise cancellation, and choose an environmental mode. The app even features a hearing test so users can make adjustments as their hearing changes over time. Many ear domes also make the Groove physically customizable.

The Groove has a rechargeable battery with a 10-hour battery life. The company touts the hearing amplifier’s small size (nearly invisible) and comfortable design (lightweight with a variety of ear domes). For those who struggle to find a hearing amplifier that feels comfortable, the Groove may be the perfect fit.

Overview of the Groove from Otofonix

 

Groove

Cost

$795.00 (pair)

Company Rating

BBB rating of A

Battery Style

Rechargeable, lasts 10 hours

Listening Environment  Setting Options

4 environment settings

Smartphone Enabled?

Yes – App offers noise cancellation, 10 volume levels, hearing test, and many specific adjustments

Physical Controls

No physical buttons

Return Policy

45-day return policy, 1-year warranty

Key Specifications

The Groove from Otofonix comes with 6 open domes, 6 closed domes, and 2 large and medium ‘magic’ domes, making it remarkably customizable. The app allows for customization of the sound amplifier itself, with four environmental modes, noise cancellation, and more. The Groove offers a 42-53 dB gain, higher than most hearing amplifiers on the market.

·         Ultra-customizable, with many ear domes and app settings.

·         Includes a cleaning kit to help preserve the amplifier.

·         42-53 dB gain provides great volume.

·         Integrated hearing test makes it simple to adjust the settings as the user ages.

·         24/7, US-based, lifetime free phone support makes it easy to get answers when users need them.

Pros and Cons of the Groove from Otofonix

Pros:

  • Customization app controls all aspects of the amplifier
  • App features hearing test to help with fine-tuning
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Includes a cleaning kit
  • High BBB rating

Cons:

  • 10-hour battery likely requires daily charging
  • No physical buttons for those who prefer them

The Atom from Audien Hearing

Smallest Hearing Amplifier

The Atom from Audien Hearing

Audien Hearing strives to create high-quality, small-sized hearing amplifiers. The Atom is its smallest model yet. The company took advice from 200,000+ satisfied customers of its EV1 and EV3 model amplifiers to create the Atom model. This model sports a 22% smaller size than the EV1, 25% longer battery life than the EV1, and the new Atom chip that brings more clarity than any other model before.

The Atom is easy to set up in just a few minutes. With no smartphone app, it can be the ideal hearing amplifier for those looking for a very simple device. The patented comfort+ design helps keep the user comfortable while wearing the Atom for extended periods of time, so you can wear it all day. Battery life of up to 25 hours ensures that it’s not necessary to frequently recharge. 

Overview of the Atom from Audien Hearing

 

Atom

Cost

$99 (pair)

Company Rating

BBB rating of B

Battery Style

Rechargeable, lasts 25 hours

Listening Environment  Setting Options

1 environment setting

Smartphone Enabled?

No

Physical Controls

Physical on/off switch

Return Policy

45-day return policy, 1-year warranty

Key Specifications

The Atom from Audien Hearing features the company’s latest technology, dubbed the ‘Atom’ chip. The company website doesn’t offer many details on the chip, except that it’s more advanced than previous technology and delivers better sound. The biggest selling point of the Atom has to be its tiny size. For those who want a truly discreet hearing amplifier, there’s no better combination of small and powerful hearing amplifier out there.

·         Incredibly small design for an invisible look.

·         Rechargeable battery offers plenty of power for days of use.

·         Very simple setup and use for the non-tech-savvy.

·         Phone, email, and live chat options for customer service.

·         Helpful website with videos and articles.

Pros and Cons of the Atom from Audien Hearing

Pros:

  • Very small design created for comfort and invisibility.
  • Straightforward setup—just turn on and insert into ear.
  • Long-lasting, rechargeable battery provides peace of mind for long periods without recharging.
  • Ample customer support through phone, email, live chat, videos, and articles.

Cons:

  • No smartphone integration.
  • No customization.

The CS50+ from Sound World Solutions  

Best Smartphone App for a Hearing Amplifier

The CS50+ from Sound World Solutions

The CS50+ from Sound World Solutions is the go-to hearing amplifier for the tech-savvy customer. The company went all out with its smartphone app, providing users with presets, environment settings, an equalizer, and voice-prompt control in four languages. The CS50+ can even stream audio from the user’s smartphone, allowing them to listen to music, audiobooks, videos, or phone calls.

The CS50+ hearing amplifier is the only ‘amplifier’ available from Sound World Solutions, although it offers three other hearing ‘aids’ of differing quality. The company’s website doesn’t quite explain the difference between ‘amplifier’ and ‘aid’, but the CS50+ looks to be the best quality for the money. Amplifiers, unfortunately, feature the shorter of two warranties at 90 days.

Overview of the CS50+ from Sound World Solutions 

 

CS50+

Cost

$349.99 (single - left or right earpiece)

Company Rating

BBB rating of A+, Google rating of 4.8

Battery Style

Rechargeable, lasts 12 hours

Environment Modes

3 environment settings

Smartphone Enabled?

Yes – App offers presets, equalizer, voice prompts, and music mode

Physical Controls

Physical buttons for adjusting volume and 3 environment settings

Return Policy

45-day return policy, 90-day warranty ($60 more for 15-month warranty)

Key Specifications

The CS50+ from Sound World Solutions offers a high-tech smartphone app for those who want to make specific adjustments or integrate with their smartphone. For added convenience, voice prompts can be set up to control volume and environmental settings. These prompts can be set in any of four languages—English, French, Spanish, or Hindi.

·         Phone audio streaming for music, videos, or phone calls.

·         Three ear tips (small, medium, large) for adjustable comfort.

·         16-channel compressor for high-quality sound and clarity.

·         Phone and email support available, along with FAQs and tutorials.

·         Highly reviewed company on BBB and Google.

Pros and Cons of the CS50+ from Sound World Solutions

Pros:

  • Stream smartphone audio of every type right through the hearing amplifier.
  • Rechargeable battery with 12-hour battery life.
  • Intuitive, feature-rich smartphone app.
  • Extended warranty available

Cons:

  • On the expensive side for some consumers.
  • Daily charging may be required.

The Vento from Britzgo

Best Low-Cost Hearing Amplifier

The Vento from Britzgo

The Vento from Britzgo can provide the hearing amplification some need without attaching a high price tag. The company prides itself on cost-effective, powerful hearing amplifiers. The Vento is the company’s least expensive model and comes with a slew of quality features.

The Vento can be recharged in 8 hours, providing users with up to 50 hours of use. A single charge can keep the Vento running for days. The physical buttons make adjustments simple, although there are only 2 environmental settings, fewer than most other hearing amplifiers. The Vento is a powerful hearing amplifier for a great price.

Overview of the Vento from Britzgo

 

Vento

Cost

$49.50 (single) or $89.50 (pair)

Company Rating

BBB rating of A+, Google rating of 5.0

Battery Style

Rechargeable, lasts 35-50 hours

Environment Modes

2 environment settings

Smartphone Enabled?

No

Physical Controls

Physical buttons for adjusting volume and 2 environment settings

Return Policy

30-day return policy, 1-year warranty

Key Specifications

The Vento from Britzgo is available as a single or pair of hearing amplifiers. The swiveling ear tube makes it easy to use a single amplifier on either ear. For those who wish to have a pair, the two together cost less than $100. This is a big saving compared to many other hearing amplifiers out there. When it comes to the Vento hearing amplifier, the quality for the price cannot be matched.

·         Inexpensive hearing amplifier with single or pair option.

·         Impressive battery life that can last days without recharging.

·         Adjustable tubes and Knowles speaker provide very high-quality audio and clarity.

·         Phone and email support available, along with FAQs and helpful tutorials.

·         Highly rated by the BBB and Google.

Pros and Cons of the Vento from Britzgo

Pros:

  • Long-lasting battery power that won’t run out quickly.
  • Cost-efficient for those on a budget, including a single earpiece for under $50.
  • Easy-to-use physical buttons.
  • Generous 1-year warranty.

Cons:

  • No smartphone app available.
  • Only two environmental modes.

The Pocketalker Ultra Duo from Williams Sound

Best Headphone Hearing Amplifier

The Pocketalker Ultra Duo from Williams Sound

The Pocketalker Ultra Duo from Williams Sound is a very different hearing amplifier. Instead of the classic behind-the-ear amplifying earbud, the Pocketalker looks more like a cassette player with headphones. Users wear an over-the-head pair of headphones or a single earbud, then use the microphone to pick up the sound they want to hear. The microphone can be detached and extended for extra clarity.

The Pocketalker also comes with an extension cord that can be used to connect directly to a TV set for the clearest listening possible. It also features a belt clip for easy carrying throughout the day. The device uses 2 AAA batteries to function and can last up to 100 hours on a single set of batteries.

Overview of the Pocketalker Ultra Duo from Williams Sound

 

Pocketalker Ultra Duo

Cost

$155 (headphones)

Company Rating

BBB rating of A+, Google rating of 5.0

Battery Style

Not rechargeable, 2 AAA batteries can last up to 100 hours

Environment Modes

Varying tone controls

Smartphone Enabled?

No

Physical Controls

Physical buttons for adjusting volume and tone control

Return Policy

30-day return policy, 5-year warranty

Key Specifications

The Pocketalker Ultra Duo from Williams Sound is available on Amazon and the company’s website, although the website seems to have loading issues. The parent company, Williams AV, is known for making a variety of audio and video equipment, so the Pocketalker can be expected to be made at a high standard. The Pocketalker is a different kind of hearing amplifier that may suit certain customers more than other models.

·         12-foot extension cable for TV listening or extending the microphone.

·         2 AAA batteries can power the device for up to 100 hours.

·         Unique design for a hearing amplifier with no small, losable parts.

·         Very generous 5-year warranty available.

·         Highly rated by BBB and Google.

Pros and Cons of the Pocketalker Ultra Duo from Williams Sound

Pros:

  • Long-lasting battery life at 100 hours.
  • Extension cable for directly connecting to devices like TV sets.
  • Long warranty available at 5 years.
  • Designed by a company known for high-grade AV equipment.

Cons:

  • Very slow website, limited customer support.
  • Large, bulky design may not suit all customers.

The BLJ-109 from Banglijian

Best Rechargeable Hearing Amplifier

The BLJ-109 from Banglijian

The BLJ-109 from Banglijian is a small but powerful hearing amplifier with incredible battery life. According to the company, this model can be recharged in full in just two hours. A full charge can last anywhere from 45 – 60 hours total, ensuring that users will never lose power when they are out and about.

The BLJ-109 comes with a wide variety of domes and tubes, making it easy for users to find the perfect fit for them. The 6 domes can be used for the thick tubes while 10 domes can be used for the thin tubes. Physical controls on the hearing amplifier itself can be preferable for those who don’t want to figure out a smartphone app.

Overview of the BLJ-109 from Banglijian

 

BLJ-109

Cost

$67.99 (single)

Company Rating

No data available

Battery Style

Rechargeable, 2 hours of charging provides 45 – 60 hours of power

Environment Modes

3 environment settings

Smartphone Enabled?

No

Physical Controls

Physical buttons for adjusting volume, environment, and toggle on/off

Return Policy

30-day return policy, 2 and 3-year warranties available (via Amazon)

Key Specifications

The BLJ-109 from Banglijian features three environmental modes to help clarify audio in common scenarios. The device also sports a noise reduction setting that makes it easier to decipher important sounds. If that’s not enough, the customizable tubes and domes can also help make sound as clear as possible. The company does not seem to have much of a presence online, however, so tech support may be limited to contacting the company through its Amazon store.

·         Incredibly fast charging that provides days of usage.

·         A wide range of tubes and domes to ensure the most comfortable fit possible.

·         A low-cost hearing amplifier option for those on a budget.

·         Rechargeable battery for ease of use.

·         2 and 3-year warranty options available.

Pros and Cons of the BLJ-109 from Banglijian

Pros:

  • Very fast charging that offers up to 60 hours of power.
  • Inexpensive hearing amplifier for the technology provided.
  • Multiple clarity features including 3 environmental modes and noise reduction.
  • 6 domes and 2 thick tubes along with 10 domes for 2 thin tubes offer a very customized fit.

Cons:

  • No official website, only available on Amazon.
  • Limited company information available.

How to Get Financial Assistance for Hearing Amplifiers

There are many different ways to pay for a hearing amplifier. Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs, and other sources can help reduce or eliminate the costs associated with a hearing amplifier. Below, we’ll discuss the many options so you can decide which one(s) work best for your situation.

Medicare Coverage for Hearing Amplifiers

Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover the costs related to any hearing aids or amplifiers. These free tiers of Medicare are designed to cover things like hospital stays, nursing home care, durable medical equipment, and preventive services.

Medicare Part C plans work differently than Part A and Part B. Private insurance companies offer Part C plans that provide a variety of benefits, including hearing-related services and product coverage. Depending on the plan, a Medicare Part C plan could cover some or all of the cost of a hearing amplifier. Every Part C plan has different benefits, so be sure to check for hearing aids and amplifiers if coverage is important to you.

Medicaid Coverage for Hearing Amplifiers

Some states offer coverage for hearing aids and amplifiers, while others don’t provide coverage for these devices. 

Below is the current status of adult (age 21+) Medicaid coverage for hearing aids and amplifiers. As Medicaid program benefits change from time to time, be sure to contact your state’s Medicaid office to confirm exactly what type of hearing aids, amplifiers, accessories, and testing are covered.

State


Hearing Amplifier Cost Coverage


State Medicaid Website


State Medicaid Contact


Alabama


Not covered


https://medicaid.alabama.gov/ 


334-242-5000


Alaska


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing 


https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/pages/medicaid/default.aspx 


800-780-9972


Arizona


Not covered


https://www.azahcccs.gov/ 


855-432-7587


Arkansas


Not covered


https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/medical-services/ 


855-372-1084


California


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://www.medi-cal.ca.gov/ 


800-541-5555


Colorado


Not covered


https://www.healthfirstcolorado.com/ 


800-221-3943


Connecticut


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as testing


https://portal.ct.gov/husky 


800-842-1508


Delaware


Not covered


https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dss/medicaid.html 


800-464-4957


District of Columbia


Not covered


https://dhcf.dc.gov/service/medicaid 


202-645-4614


Florida 


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://ahca.myflorida.com/Medicaid/index.shtml 


877-711-3662


Georgia


Not covered


https://medicaid.georgia.gov/ 


404-651-9982


Hawaii


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as testing


https://medquest.hawaii.gov/ 


808-524-3370


Idaho


Coverage for hearing tests only


https://www.idmedicaid.com/default.aspx 


877-456-1233


Illinois


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://www2.illinois.gov/hfs/Pages/default.aspx 


800-843-6154


Indiana


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://www.in.gov/medicaid/ 


800-457-4584


Iowa


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://dhs.iowa.gov/ime/members 


855-889-7985


Kansas


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as testing


https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/183/KanCare-Medicaid 


800-792-4884


Kentucky


Not covered


https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/Pages/default.aspx 


800-635-2570


Louisiana


Not covered


https://ldh.la.gov/subhome/1 


888-342-6207


Maine


Not covered


https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/health-care-assistance 


207-287-3707


Maryland


Not covered


https://health.maryland.gov/mmcp/Pages/home.aspx 


877-463-3464


Massachusetts


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, covered by 3 of the 8 available plans


https://www.mass.gov/topics/masshealth 


800-841-2900


Michigan


Not covered


https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/doing-business/providers/providers/medicaid 


800-642-3195


Minnesota


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/seniors/health-care/health-care-programs/programs-and-services/medical-assistance.jsp 


651-431-2700


Mississippi


Not covered


https://medicaid.ms.gov/ 


800-421-2408


Missouri


Coverage of hearing aids/amplifiers and testing only for the pregnant, blind, and nursing-facility bound.


https://mydss.mo.gov/healthcare 


800-735-2466


Montana


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://medicaidprovider.mt.gov/ 


800-362-8312


Nebraska


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx 


855-632-7633


Nevada


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://www.medicaid.nv.gov/ 


800-992-0900


New Hampshire


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/medicaid 


800-852-3345


New Jersey


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/medicaid/ 


800-356-1561


New Mexico 


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://nmmedicaid.portal.conduent.com/static/index.htm 


888-997-2583


New York


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://www.health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid/ 


800-541-2831


North Carolina


Not covered


https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/ 


800-662-7030


North Dakota


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers


https://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/medicalserv/medicaid/ 


800-472-2622


Ohio


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories


https://medicaid.ohio.gov/home 


800-324-8680


Oklahoma


Not covered


https://www.oklahoma.gov/ohca.html 


800-522-0310


Oregon


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as testing


https://or-medicaid.gov/ProdPortal/ 


800-527-5772


Pennsylvania


Not covered


https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/Medical-Assistance.aspx 


800-692-7462


Rhode Island


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers


https://dhs.ri.gov/programs-and-services/medicaid-medicare-programs 


401-462-5300


South Carolina


Not covered


https://www.scdhhs.gov/site-page/medicaid 


888-549-0820


South Dakota 


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers


https://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/ 


800-597-1603


Tennessee


Not covered


https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/eligibility/tenncare-medicaid.html 


800-342-3145


Texas


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip 


877-541-7905


Utah


Not covered


https://medicaid.utah.gov/ 


800-662-9651


Vermont


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as approved accessories and testing


https://dvha.vermont.gov/members/medicaid 


800-250-8427


Virginia


Not covered


https://www.dmas.virginia.gov/ 


804-786-7933


Washington


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as testing


https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/medicaid 


800-562-3022


West Virginia


Not covered


https://dhhr.wv.gov/bcf/Services/familyassistance/Pages/Medicaid.aspx 


800-642-8589


Wisconsin


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers


https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/medicaid/index.htm 


800-362-3002


Wyoming 


Coverage for hearing aids/amplifiers, as well as testing


https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/ 


866-571-0944


Veterans Resources for Hearing Amplifiers

Veterans Affairs will cover the cost of hearing aids, testing, and batteries for those enrolled in VA healthcare. Veterans must schedule an appointment with a VA audiologist to take a hearing test first. If the doctor certifies that you need a hearing aid, the VA will cover the costs.

Applying for VA Healthcare

Step 1: Check your eligibility 

The VA has very specific eligibility requirements for obtaining VA healthcare. Some requirements include continuous months of active duty, receiving VA pension benefits, no dishonorable discharge, and others. Check the VA healthcare eligibility page to make sure you are eligible or have an exception.

Step 2: Gather pertinent information 

When applying, the VA will want to see social security numbers, previous-year tax returns, and other insurance coverage information for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents. They will also want to see official discharge papers to verify service. Having all of these papers ready will make the application process much easier.

Step 3: Apply for benefits 

VA Healthcare applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at a VA office. Veterans can also receive help filing an application

While hearing tests and hearing aids are covered, hearing amplifiers fall into a gray area. If the doctor determines that some type of hearing device is needed, a veteran can choose to have a hearing amplifier. However, they should confirm that their hearing amplifier and related costs will be covered.

Additional Financial Resources for Hearing Amplifiers

Many insurance policies offer coverage for hearing-related health issues. Whether you have private insurance, are covered by a loved one, or have coverage through your work, insurance may cover part or all of your hearing needs. Coverage could include hearing tests, hearing aids or amplifiers, batteries, accessories, and new models every few years. 

Another option for hearing amplifier coverage is a healthcare credit card. Many doctors and audiologists offer programs like CareCredit, which allow you to make interest-free payments for 6 to 24 months. This grants you the ability to spread out the cost of your hearing amplifier without having to pay extra.

How to Choose a Hearing Amplifier

Best Hearing Amplifiers

Step 1: Determine Your Budget

Hearing amplifiers are available at a variety of price points. For those on a tight budget, you can find single-bud hearing amplifiers for as little as $50. For those with money to spend, high-tech, sophisticated amplifiers can cost up to $1000 or more.

Each amplifier will have its own specific features and, not surprisingly, the costlier models offer more customization and higher quality amplification. While budget is very important to consider when shopping for a hearing amplifier, the most important aspect to think about is your hearing issues.

Step 2: Understand Your Options

Some people can get by with a hearing amplifier while others need a hearing aid. Hearing amplifiers ‘amplify’ the sound and do their best to clarify it for the wearer, and are not customized for your specific hearing loss. Hearing aids, on the other hand, are designed specifically for the patient. Typically, you need a doctor’s prescription to get a hearing aid.

Although they are not custom-programmed, there is still a lot of variation between different hearing amplifiers. Hearing amplifiers can come with a variety of features. Most models offer feedback cancellation and noise reduction to help the user hear more clearly. Some work with audio companies to integrate high-grade audio chips that are designed to make hearing much easier. Most models will also feature a series of environment settings such as ‘restaurant’, ‘outdoors’, and ‘quiet’. These settings are tailored to the common sounds and stresses of the specific environment.

So, while you can wear any hearing amplifier, when choosing a device it’s important to think about the various features you may enjoy or benefit from most and specifically look for devices that can meet these needs. 

Step 3: Think About Your Preferences and Needs

If you’re in the market for a hearing amplifier, you probably have a few preferences in mind. Each hearing amplifier will have a variety of features, such as noise reduction, feedback cancellation, or environment settings. Plus, there are different options for size, fit, and battery type. Think about situations where you struggle with your hearing and look for features that could help in those scenarios.

 Before making a purchase, some questions to ask yourself include:

  • Do you want a discreet hearing amplifier or are you okay with others noticing it? Some amplifiers are very small while others are easier to see.
  • Do you want to control your hearing amplifier with an app? Do you prefer physical adjustments on the amplifier itself? Some models have both options while others only have one.
  • Do you plan to wear your hearing amplifier all day? If so, a variety of domes and tubes may be important. Some models come with one or two domes and tubes while others come with a whole set.
  • Does the hearing amplifier come with rechargeable batteries? How long do the batteries last? These could be vital questions to think about based on your expected daily needs.

Step 4: Check the Company’s Reputation

As with shopping for any product online, it’s important to consider the company’s reputation. Are they accredited by the Better Business Bureau? Do they have a high Google rating? What have other customers said about their purchase?

Look at ratings around the web for the specific hearing amplifier you’re considering. Also, ask friends and family members if they have a hearing amplifier and how they like theirs. A company’s age can also be a good indicator that they’ve been around for a while and produce high-quality products.

Step 5: Keep Customer Service In Mind

There’s always a chance that you’ll need to contact the hearing amplifier company for help with your product. Be sure to buy from a company that makes it easy to contact them.

Some companies only offer a phone number for assistance while others offer email, contact forms, or online chats. Determine your preferred mode of contact when you need to reach out to customer service.

Many hearing amplifier companies also provide videos and articles that can help you troubleshoot their products. These can help you skip the customer service line and find answers to your problems fast.

Off-site help may also be available for popular companies. If the company has been in business for many years and has sold many hearing amplifiers, chances are that other customers have shared their solutions to problems around the web.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a hearing ‘aid’ and a hearing ‘amplifier’?

A hearing ‘aid’ is a prescription hearing device from a doctor. A hearing ‘amplifier’ is a product that raises the volume of all sounds while trying to clarify them.

What level of hearing loss requires a hearing aid?

Hearing specialists may recommend a hearing aid for those with ‘moderate’ hearing loss, where a person struggles to hear sounds that are quieter than 40-50 dB.

What if I struggle to hear through background noise?

A hearing amplifier with noise reduction could be helpful. Devices with this feature seek out background noise and digitally dissipate it while raising the volume of nearby sounds.

How much do hearing amplifiers cost?

Hearing amplifiers vary dramatically in price based on many features. A basic amplifier with few customization options can be as inexpensive as $50. A sophisticated hearing amplifier can be as much as $1000 or more.

Can a deaf person benefit from a hearing amplifier?

Someone who is deaf will likely not improve their hearing with a hearing amplifier. Specially-made hearing aids from a doctor may be able to help them hear faint sounds, however.