How much is the hearing aid subsidy in New Zealand?

The Hearing Aid Subsidy Scheme pays a set amount per hearing aid, once every six years, to eligible adults over 16 who are New Zealand residents with a permanent hearing loss and who do not qualify for funding from another source. It is a contribution towards the cost rather than the full cost. We do not publish the figure here because it is reviewed periodically — Disability Support Services and the New Zealand Audiological Society both publish the current amount, and they are linked below.

Can I get free hearing aids in New Zealand?

Some people can. The Hearing Aid Funding Scheme covers the cost of the devices for adults who meet one of its criteria, and accessed through Health New Zealand there is nothing to pay. Through a private clinic a fitting fee applies, because the scheme covers devices rather than clinician time. Children’s hearing aids are publicly funded.

Does ACC pay for hearing aids?

ACC may contribute where hearing loss results from prolonged occupational noise exposure or a sudden trauma. Your audiologist’s assessment indicates whether the loss is consistent with noise damage, and an MNZAS audiologist or audiometrist can lodge the claim. Whether it is accepted is ACC’s decision, not a clinic’s.

Can I use more than one funding source?

The schemes interact rather than stack freely — the Hearing Aid Subsidy Scheme is specifically for people who do not qualify for funding from another source. Working out which applies to you is what the quiz at the top of this page is for.

How often can I get funding for new hearing aids?

The Hearing Aid Subsidy Scheme is available once every six years. Other schemes have their own rules, and ACC and Veterans’ Affairs entitlements depend on the accepted claim.

Hearing aid subsidies and funding in Canterbury

Several separate New Zealand schemes help with the cost of hearing aids, and which one applies depends on your circumstances rather than on which clinic you use. This short quiz points you to the ones worth looking into.

Results in this quiz are not a guarantee of any funding, discount or grants and are for informational purposes only.

The first step either way

Book a hearing appointment

Every funding pathway starts with a hearing test, because that is what establishes what your hearing does. Booking one does not commit you to anything.

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Hearing aid subsidies and funding in Canterbury

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