Hearing aid grants in Ireland
Your guide to navigating hearing aid prices, grants, and financial support options in Ireland.
All you need to know about hearing aid grants in Ireland
As an investment, hearing aids are essential for improving the quality of life of those with hearing loss. More than just handy gadgets, these small but mighty devices are gateways to clearer communication and enriched daily experiences. But have you considered the variety of hearing aids available and how to fund them? In Ireland, several grants and financial schemes can make your investment in hearing aids more accessible.
From government grants to helpful repair schemes, there are financial support options available to make private hearing aids more affordable. The Health Service Executive (HSE) also provides support for hearing aids, ensuring you don't have to navigate your hearing journey alone. These initiatives are vital in making hearing aids more attainable.
However, finding the right hearing aid at the best price is as important as securing funding. With so many hearing aid providers in Ireland, making an informed choice can seem daunting. That's where SpotDif comes in. Our easy-to-use platform is designed to help you search and compare audiologists and hearing aid companies across the country. We aim to simplify your journey in finding a top-quality hearing aid provider that aligns with your needs and budget.
Read on to learn more about hearing aid prices and grants in Ireland.
Is it possible to get free HSE hearing aids?
Did you know that in Ireland, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is here to lend a helping hand to young people with hearing loss? For anyone under 18, the HSE audiology service offers free hearing aids.
Early support for hearing loss can make a world of difference. That's why the HSE makes getting hearing aids for children and teenagers not just possible, but straightforward and stress-free. No worries about the cost, no unnecessary hassle. Just the support you need, right when it matters most.
And it's not just about handing over a device. The HSE provides a full package — from the initial hearing test right down to perfectly fitting the hearing aid. Plus, they're with you all the way, offering ongoing support to ensure everything is working just right.
Can I get free hearing aids with a medical card?
You might be wondering if adults can also get free hearing aids. The answer is yes, provided you have a medical card. A medical card grants you access to various health services, including hearing aids, at no cost. It's given based on income and means, ensuring healthcare is affordable for everyone.
Applying for free hearing aids with your card is simple. Just visit your GP or a local health office with your medical card. They'll guide you through the process, from initial hearing tests to fitting your new hearing aids.
What style of hearing aids are available from the HSE?
It’s worth noting that, with HSE hearing aids, you may not get as much design or feature choice as you might if you opt for hearing aids from a private provider. Your HSE options include:
Digital hearing aids
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
Multi-channel hearing aids
Multi-programme
If you have your heart set on invisible hearing aids or a particular feature, don’t worry — you may still be able to get some financial support. Likewise, if you’re not eligible for a medical card, there are some hearing aid grants and schemes to make your purchase more affordable and accessible.
How much do hearing aids cost in Ireland?
We can see that some adults can get free HSE hearing aids. But outside of this option, how much can you usually expect to pay for hearing aids in Ireland?
The cost of hearing aids can vary greatly, depending on the brand, model and features — as well as the provider you choose. As a general rule of thumb, however, a single hearing aid is likely to cost between €1000 and €5000. This might seem like a broad spectrum, but it's essential to understand what you're getting for your money.
When you invest in a hearing aid, you're paying for a comprehensive service as well as the device itself. This price typically includes the hearing aid, along with essential fitting and programming services.
The cost of your hearing aids should also include ongoing support, such as regular check-ups, adjustments, and maintenance, ensuring your hearing aid continues to function as it should.
Grant and finance options for private hearing aids
Hearing aids can provide you with a new lease of life. Whether you’ve been gradually experiencing a decline in your hearing or you’ve started to notice tinnitus, these devices can help you communicate more clearly and enjoy the world around you. So what financial support is available if you don’t have a medical card?
Treatment Benefit Scheme
Perhaps the most well-known and utilised hearing aid grant in Ireland is the Treatment Benefit Scheme. This scheme is a fantastic support system for those who have paid into the Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI). It covers an array of health-related services, from dental care and eye care to hair replacement systems for those with cancer or alopecia. It can also help pay for your hearing aids.
If you've made sufficient PRSI contributions, the Treatment Benefit Scheme can entitle you to a hearing aid grant of up to €500 per ear. That's a significant part of the cost covered.
The scheme also covers half the cost of any hearing aid repairs so you can have peace of mind knowing your hearing aids are always in top condition.
To apply for this hearing aid grant, you simply need to check your eligibility for the scheme, which is based on your PRSI contributions. Once you're deemed eligible, you're on your way to receiving the financial assistance you need for your hearing aids or their maintenance.
Other schemes and benefits
In Ireland, there is other support available to help pay for hearing aids, even if you don’t qualify for the Treatment Benefit Scheme.
Tax relief
Without the Treatment Benefit Scheme or a medical card, you will need to foot the bill for your hearing aids yourself. However, there is a handy way to ease the financial pinch — tax relief.
In Ireland, you can claim tax back on health expenses, and this includes your hearing aid costs. This means when you're spending on purchasing, maintaining, or repairing your hearing aid, you're not left out in the cold. The tax relief is available at your standard rate of tax, which is usually 20%.
So, how do you make this work for you? Simply save those receipts whenever you shell out for your hearing aid. Later, you can claim these expenses against your tax. It's a straightforward process and can bring back a significant proportion of your spending.
While paying upfront might seem daunting, remember that part of that sum is coming back to you.
Find the right hearing aid at the best price with SpotDif
In Ireland, we’re fortunate to benefit from a range of key hearing aid grants and support options to help reduce the financial strain. You deserve clear and comfortable hearing. Once you’ve found the right grant or scheme to help pay for your hearing aids, it’s time to choose a supplier. At SpotDif, we have access to top hearing aid providers and audiologists across Ireland.
Search and compare hearing aids and feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.
Last updated on 16 Apr 2024