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Hearing Aids Resources & Assistance Information

Under the Illinois Hearing Instrument Consumer Protection Act, hearing aid dispensers are required to be licensed and must provide consumers with a 30-business-day trial period for hearing aids.

For additional information or to file a complaint, please contact the Illinois Department of Public Health at 217-524-2396 or 800-547-0466 (TTY).

Hearing Aids Service by the State Government

Department of Human Services (DHS)

  • Fill out the Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) to apply for SNAP, cash or medical assistance based on your income.
  • If approved in qualifying for services/medical card, you may be eligible to receive hearing aids upon referral from a Doctor.

Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services (DHS-DRS)

  • Individuals must become a client and currently be employed or seeking employment.
  • Contact your local Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) office to see if you qualify for services.

Department of Human Services, Bureau of Early Intervention (DHS-EI)

  • For children 0-3 years old; and
  • Provides resources and supports that assist parents in maximizing their child's development.

University of Illinois at Springfield, Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC)

  • Helps children with disabilities, and those who have conditions which may lead to disabilities, grow and develop to the full extent of their abilities.
  • Help families get a diagnosis and learn more about your child’s condition, arrange special medical care, work with your child’s doctors and teachers, assist with your insurance plan and/or smooth your child’s transition into adulthood.

Financial Assistance and Donated Hearing Aids

Chicago Hearing Society (CHS)
CHS replies on donations to provide hearing aid donations to consumers. Contact CHSAudiology@anixter.org for application process. 

The following provide a listing of potential financial assistance programs:

Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA)

National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management (NCHAM)

Illinois Hearing Aid Laws

Coverage Eff. Date Public Act Law Requirement

*This law only applies to individual or group policies of accident and health insurance or managed care plans.

How to Verify Your Coverage

  • Check with your insurance provider. Ask about specific coverage for medically necessary hearing aids and related services.
  • Be aware that some plans may be exempt from state mandates.
  • In some cases, a supplementary policy may be needed to cover hearing aids and related services.

Contact the Illinois Department of Insurance

If you have questions about whether your specific plan must abide to the Illinois mandate, or if you believe your insurance company is wrongfully denying coverage. You can contact the Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI) for guidance or to file a complaint.

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