Seniors Hearing Aid Rebate Program

The program covers cost-effective hearing aids that meet the applicant’s basic hearing needs to a maximum payable rebate of $6,000 per individual. Hearing aids are payable once every 5 years.

Eligibility Criteria: 

• 65 years of age or older.
• Hearing assessments should be completed by a Certified Audiologist in consultation with a family physician or ear, nose and throat specialist.
• Maximum cost of $3,000 per hearing aid.
• The applicant’s level of hearing loss will be determined by the average threshold or decibel level at four frequencies: 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 3000 Hz. The Senior Hearing Aid Rebate shall be authorized if the average decibel level at these four frequencies is 50 dB or greater.
• To be eligible for full benefits, applicant must not have other medical coverage. If the applicant has coverage for a hearing aid but would be in financial hardship to cover the co-pay, this program may help cover the difference. The hearing aid must meet program criteria and not cost more than the maximum of $3,000 per hearing aid.
• Verification of household Net Income from Line 23600 of the most recent income tax return.
• Verification of assets 

For eligible applicants at or below Market Basket Measure, the full cost of hearing aids will be covered. Market Basket Measure currently sits at $22,253 or individuals or $31,470 for couples. For applicant’s who have annual income above Market Basket Measure year, a portion of the hearing aids will be covered. Contact the toll-free screening line at 1-877-569-0546 or email screening@gov.pe.ca to discuss eligibility.

Seniors Hearing Aid Rebate Program Question and Answers

What does proof of assets mean?

Applicants are responsible to disclose assets and provide documentation, information, and other evidence necessary to ensure the Department can accurately assess the value of an asset. Documentation may include, but is not limited to, bank statements, investment certificates, mortgage documents, or property deeds.

The Hearing Aid Rebate Program allows an asset exemption of $100,000. 

What is an asset?

An asset is defined by anyone of the following:

• Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSPs)
• Real property
• Stocks, bonds, and/or mutual funds
• Liens or mortgages
• Savings
• Cash surrender value of a life insurance policy
• Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs)

What can be exempted from assets?

The following assets are exempt from consideration when determining the value of assets:

• The principle residence of the applicant and/or co-applicant
• One vehicle that is not used primarily as a recreational vehicle
• The cash surrender value of a life insurance policy, up to $5,000
• The value of a prepair funeral, up to $5,000
• The value of a registered disability savings plan (RDSP)
• Real and personal property essential for the operation of a business when the business provides a principle source of income including, but not limited to, a fishing craft and/or gear, livestock, seed for crops, machinery, equipment, or goods.

If my income is more than Market Basket Measure, can I still be eligible for the program?

Yes, if your income is more than $22,523 as an individual or more than $31,470 but less than $100,000, you may still qualify for the program on a sliding scale.