Overview
This guide covers three distinct support systems: Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for service members, TRICARE rules for retirees, and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) for anyone whose job is threatened by hearing loss.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits
The VA operates the largest audiology network in the United States. Hearing loss and tinnitus are the top two service-connected disabilities claimed by veterans. Unlike Medicare, which has gaps in coverage, the VA provides a comprehensive benefit structure—if you qualify.
Who is eligible for hearing aids?
You are generally eligible for hearing aids at no cost if you are enrolled in VA Health Care and meet any one of the following criteria:
- You have any compensable service-connected disability (rated 10% or higher).
- You have a service-connected hearing loss (even if rated 0%).
- You are a former Prisoner of War (POW).
- You are a Purple Heart recipient.
- You receive benefits under 38 U.S.C. 1151.
- You receive increased pension for Aid and Attendance.
Direct access to audiology
Veterans enrolled in VA health care can self-refer to audiology clinics. You do not need a referral from your primary care physician to schedule a hearing test or hearing aid adjustment.
The Community Care Network (CCN)
Under the MISSION Act, if you face long wait times or long drives, you may be eligible to see a private audiologist in your community while the VA pays the bill.
- Wait time: If the next available VA appointment is more than 28 days away.
- Distance: If the average drive time to a VA facility is more than 60 minutes.
Note: You must get authorization from the VA before seeing a community provider. The private provider will test you, but the VA will typically ship the hearing aids to the provider for your fitting.
TRICARE: active duty vs. retirees
It is critical to distinguish between the VA (for veterans) and TRICARE (insurance for military personnel). Coverage rules are very different.
| Beneficiary type | Hearing aid coverage | Key details |
|---|---|---|
| Active duty & family | Covered | Must meet hearing loss thresholds (e.g., >26dB HL). Fully covered for active duty and dependents. |
| Retirees | Not covered | TRICARE generally excludes hearing aids for retirees, similar to Medicare. |
| Retirees (RACHAP option) | Discount program | Retirees can use the Retiree-At-Cost Hearing Aid Program (RACHAP) to buy devices at government cost at military hospitals, subject to availability. |
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
If you are not eligible for standard VA benefits, or if you are a civilian whose hearing loss makes it hard to keep a job, “Voc Rehab” is a critical resource.
What it is
State-run agencies (often called the “Department of Rehabilitation” or DOR) help people with disabilities prepare for, secure, and retain employment.
How it helps
To qualify, your hearing loss must be an “impediment to employment.” Examples include:
- You cannot hear instructions in meetings or on the phone.
- Safety is compromised because you cannot hear alarms or machinery.
- You are struggling to communicate with customers or colleagues.
If approved, the agency develops an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). If hearing aids or assistive devices are necessary for you to complete your plan, the agency can purchase them for you.
Tip for VR applicants
When applying to VR, focus specifically on work-related challenges. Do not focus on social issues (like hearing the TV). Be prepared to explain exactly how hearing loss prevents you from doing your specific job duties.
Federal employees (OWCP / FECA)
Civilian employees of the federal government (Postal Service, TSA, etc.) who suffer hearing loss due to workplace noise exposure may qualify for a Schedule Award.
Under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), hearing loss is compensated based on a schedule of weeks:
- Monaural loss (one ear): Up to 52 weeks of compensation.
- Binaural loss (both ears): Up to 200 weeks of compensation.
To claim this, you must file a CA-7 form and obtain an impairment rating based on the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment (6th Edition).
Important: “prosthetic” coding (L8690)
For both veterans and civilians utilizing government coverage, the classification of your device matters. Bone conduction systems (like the Baha or Osia) are often coded as Prosthetics (HCPCS Code L8690) rather than “hearing aids.”
Why this code matters
Some plans exclude “hearing aids” but cover “prosthetics.” Because bone conduction implants replace the function of the middle ear, they may fall into the prosthetic category. This distinction can sometimes make approval easier depending on payer rules.
Frequently asked questions
The bottom line
Multiple systems can help cover hearing care, but each has its own rules. The VA may provide comprehensive hearing benefits for eligible veterans, TRICARE coverage depends heavily on whether you are active duty or retired, and state Vocational Rehabilitation programs can step in when hearing loss puts your job at risk.
Federal employees exposed to workplace noise may qualify for separate compensation through OWCP Schedule Awards, while prosthetic coding (like L8690 for bone conduction systems) can open doors to coverage that is not available for traditional hearing aids.
If you are unsure where to start, bring your questions to your audiologist, benefits coordinator, or a Veterans Service Officer. A short conversation can often clarify which pathway applies to you and what documentation you will need.