Hearing loss is a common issue faced by many veterans. If you're a veteran with hearing loss, you may wonder if the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can help. The good news is that the VA offers various hearing aid benefits to eligible veterans. These benefits include providing hearing aids, replacement batteries, and support services. In this blog, we'll discuss how to qualify for hearing aids and hearing care through the VA. We'll also go over the other hearing benefits the VA offers to support your hearing health.

Qualifying for Hearing Aids Through the VA

The first step to get hearing aid benefits from the VA is to determine if you qualify for these services. To be eligible, you must meet specific criteria. According to the VA's guidelines, you may qualify if you:

• Have a service-connected disability that contributes to hearing loss or tinnitus.
• Receive a VA pension.
• Are a former prisoner of war (POW).
• Have received a Purple Heart.
• Are in receipt of benefits under Title 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) 1151.
• Are in receipt of an increased pension based on being housebound or in need of regular aid.
• Have a non-service hearing loss due to a medical condition for which you are receiving VA care. This non-service hearing loss could also have resulted from treatment by the VA.

If you meet the criteria, you can schedule an appointment with a VA audiologist. The audiologist will assess your hearing and determine if hearing aids are necessary. If they recommend hearing aids, they will help you with the ordering process.

Ordering Replacement Batteries for Your Hearing Aids Through the VA

Once you have your hearing aids, it's essential to maintain them. One crucial aspect of maintenance is ensuring you have functioning batteries. The VA makes it simple to order replacement batteries for your hearing aids. You can request batteries in the following ways:

• Use the online eBenefits portal. Log in to your eBenefits account. Click on "Request for Batteries and Accessories" under the "Apply" menu.
• Call the VA's toll-free number. Dial 1-877-222-VETS (8387) and follow the prompts to order your batteries.
• Mail or fax a request. Complete VA Form 2346 (Request for Batteries and Accessories). Mail or fax it to the VA Denver Acquisition & Logistics Center (DALC).

When ordering batteries, include your name, Social Security number, and current address.

Other Hearing Benefits Offered by the VA

Besides providing hearing aids and batteries, the VA offers various other hearing benefits. These benefits help to support veterans with hearing loss. The VA can provide devices that help those with hearing problems. These can include amplified telephones, alerting systems, and TV listening systems. The VA also offers aural rehab services. This can help veterans improve their communication skills and adapt to hearing aids. The VA's telehealth group offers medical help to those living too far from VA facilities. Veterans with severe to profound hearing loss may also qualify for cochlear implants.

Contact Us

The VA offers comprehensive hearing care services for all eligible veterans. They can help you get hearing aids, replacement batteries, and offer support services. If you would like to learn more, don't schedule an appointment with one of our audiologists. We can go over the benefits the VA offers and if you are eligible. Explore the hearing benefits available to you.