Traditional hearing aids and other items to assist with hearing are essential devices that significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments. At myHSA, we understand the importance of these devices and are pleased to inform you that they are eligible for reimbursement under a Health Spending Account! Below is a detailed guide on the types of hearing aids and related devices that qualify for reimbursement.
1. Traditional Hearing Aid Devices
Traditional hearing aids, designed to amplify sound for individuals with hearing loss, are eligible for reimbursement. These devices are typically worn in or behind the ear and come in various models to suit different levels of hearing impairment.
A prescription is not required to claim these devices under myHSA.
2. Additional Aids to Hearing
In addition to the more usual hearing aid devices, the following aids to hearing are also eligible under an HSA:
Extra-Loud Audible Signal Devices
Devices that produce extra-loud audible signals: These include bells, horns, or buzzers that help individuals with hearing impairments detect important sounds.
Telephone Volume Adjustment Devices
Devices to permit volume adjustment of telephone equipment above normal levels: These devices ensure that phone conversations are audible and clear.
Bone-Conduction Telephone Receivers
Bone-conduction telephone receivers: These devices transmit sound through the bones of the skull to the inner ear, providing an alternative for those who cannot use traditional hearing aids.
Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implants: These consist of a series of electrodes surgically placed in the sensory organ of a patient who is profoundly deaf and for whom traditional hearing aids are not feasible.
Hearing Aids Incorporated into Eyeglass Frames
Hearing aids incorporated into the frame of eyeglasses: Both the hearing aid and the eyeglass frame qualify for reimbursement. This integration provides a discreet and convenient solution for individuals requiring both vision and hearing correction.
Listening Devices for Reducing Sound Distortions
Listening devices for reducing sound distortions: These devices, designed to alleviate hearing impairments by eliminating or reducing sound distortions, are also eligible. They are particularly useful for listening to television programs, movies, concerts, business conferences, or similar events.
3. Eligibility for Custom Hearing Protection
Custom hearing protection may also qualify as an eligible expense under myHSA, provided the following conditions are met:
Prescription Requirement: A licensed medical practitioner must prescribe custom hearing protection.
Medical Necessity: The prescription must identify a specific medical condition and confirm the necessity of the custom hearing protection.
Inclusion of Purchase Details: The prescription must explicitly name the specific equipment and match what is purchased.
Practitioner’s Information: The prescription should include the practitioner’s name, credentials, prescription date, and patient’s name.
4. Claiming Hearing Aids Purchased Internationally
Hearing aids purchased outside of Canada can be claimed under myHSA, as long as the following criteria are met:
The practitioner or provider must be properly licensed in their respective country or state (verifying this is the claimant's responsibility).
Claims must be submitted in Canadian dollars (CAD), and reimbursements will also be processed in CAD.
Where applicable, provide:
A currency conversion rate in the claim notes for the adjudicator.
If paid via credit card, a screenshot from your statement showing the conversion rate.
If the receipt is in a foreign language, include an English translation—Google Translate or similar tools are acceptable for this purpose.
Eligibility Criteria
All the aforementioned devices qualify as aids to hearing and as such, are eligible under an HSA. To claim these expenses, ensure that you have the necessary documentation, such as receipts with the patient name, date of purchase, proof of payment, and hearing clinic the hearing device(s) was purchased from.
Our goal at myHSA is to make the reimbursement process as straightforward and efficient as possible, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being. If you have any questions or need assistance with your claim, please contact our support team at support@getmyhsa.com or open a live chat with us! We are happy to help!