Financial assistance for hearing aids in Ontario

Hearing aid costs in Ontario can range from $1,000 to $5,500 per device, depending on the type of hearing aid, your degree of hearing loss and the hearing aid's features.

Fortunately, there is coverage available to help Ontarians access affordable hearing aids. Find a hearing clinic in Ontario to discuss your options further.

Ontario hearing aid coverage

Ontario has the most hearing aid coverage programs for seniors and children in Canada. below is a summary.

Assistive Devices Program

One of the most universally beneficial programs is the Assistive Devices Program (ADP).

Under the Assistive Devices Program (ADP), Ontario residents can get up to 75% of their hearing aid costs covered up to a maximum of $500 per device. Unlike some programs, you can receive this financial assistance regardless of your income.

To qualify, you must:

• Be an Ontario resident
• Have a valid Ontario Health Insurance Health Card and
• Have a hearing loss that requires the use of hearing aids for six months or longer

However, if you already qualify for financial support from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, or if you are receiving support from Veteran Affairs Canada under Group A, you are not eligible for this program.

Note: ADP will not cover any assessment fee for your hearing aids or reimburse you for hearing aids you bought before ADP approval. Make sure you are approved before making your hearing aid purchase.

The Ontario Disability Support Program

The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) can supplement the outstanding costs for your hearing aids. ODSP also can provide financial assistance for both you and your family (spouse and children under 18) for hearing aids, alerting systems, hearing aid batteries and hearing aid repairs.

Unlike ADP, this program may also cover your hearing assessment fees with pre-approval.

However, regarding hearing aid coverage, you should only apply for ODSP if other programs cannot cover the cost. Please check if you qualify for ADP first.

Contact your local ODSP office to apply for this program.

Ontario Works

Ontario Works is also a back up source for supplemental hearing aid coverage, particularly if you live in a low-income household.

Ontario Works is more concerned about your income than other resources. You will need to be transparent about your income and other sources of funds to determine if you are eligible.

To qualify, you must:

• Be at least 16 years of age
• Be an Ontario resident
• Have assets that do not exceed the limits outlined in the program
• Be in financial need
• Participate in employment activities (to improve your skills and find work)

Ontario Works will take your living expenses, family size, and shelter costs into consideration as well. For more details on asset, gift, and voluntary payment limits you cannot exceed to qualify, visit Ontario Works.

Are hearing aids covered by OHIP?

Yes, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) provides hearing aid financial assistance through ADP. However, though many hearing clinics offer free hearing tests for adults, hearing tests are not covered by OHIP.

Additional hearing care resources

Worker's Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB): assists Ontario workers with occupational health and safety information for hearing health at work including wage-loss benefits, medical coverage and support for work-related injury or illness. 

Interpreting and intervenor services for people who are Deaf, hard of hearing or Deaf-Blind.