Ontario Works (OW) and Hearing Aid Coverage: What You Need to Know
Hearing loss can make everyday life more difficult, whether it’s keeping up with conversations, following instructions at work, or staying connected with family. For individuals and families facing financial hardship, the cost of hearing aids can feel overwhelming. Ontario Works (OW) is a social assistance program designed to provide income and employment support, and in certain cases, it can also help with medical needs such as hearing aids.
If you or someone you know is receiving Ontario Works, it’s worth exploring what coverage may be available.
Key Takeaways
- Ontario Works (OW) primarily provides income support, but it can also cover certain health-related expenses, including hearing aids.
- Eligibility for hearing aid coverage depends on your financial situation and active participation in the OW program.
- The program may pay for hearing aids, batteries, and basic repairs if prescribed by a hearing care professional.
- If you don’t qualify for OW, other government funding programs and financing options are available.
What is Ontario Works (OW)
Ontario Works is a provincial social assistance program that provides financial help and employment support for individuals and families in need. While its main purpose is to cover basic living expenses like food and shelter, OW can also provide support for health-related items that recipients cannot otherwise afford.
Hearing aids fall into this category, as they are considered essential medical devices for people with hearing loss. Through OW, eligible recipients may be able to access coverage for hearing aids, repairs, and related supplies.
Who Qualifies for Ontario Works Hearing Aid Funding
To qualify for OW support, you must be a resident of Ontario, demonstrate financial need, and actively participate in employment assistance activities (unless exempt). For hearing aid coverage specifically, eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Generally, you may qualify if:
- You are already approved for Ontario Works financial assistance.
- You have a documented hearing loss confirmed by a licensed audiologist.
- The hearing aid is considered medically necessary for daily communication and quality of life.
Your caseworker will review your situation, and in many cases, will require documentation from a hearing care professional before approving funding.
Does Ontario Works Pay for Hearing Aids
Yes, Ontario Works may cover the cost of hearing aids, but the amount and type of coverage can vary. Typically, the program can assist with:
- Hearing aids that are prescribed by an audiologist or hearing instrument specialist.
- Essential supplies, such as batteries and earmolds.
- Repairs or replacements when medically necessary.
Unlike some programs that cover all costs automatically, OW funding often depends on the specifics of your case and what other coverage you may already have (for example, through the Assistive Devices Program or private insurance).
How to Apply For Hearing Aid Coverage Through Ontario Works
Applying for hearing aid coverage under Ontario Works requires coordination with both your caseworker and your hearing care provider. The steps usually include:
- Book a Hearing Test – Visit a licensed audiologist or hearing instrument specialist to confirm the extent of your hearing loss.
- Obtain Documentation – Your provider will prepare an audiogram and a professional recommendation for hearing aids.
- Submit a Request to OW – Share the documentation with your Ontario Works caseworker, who will review your eligibility for medical assistance.
- Approval and Funding – If approved, funding is arranged through OW to cover some or all of the cost of your hearing aids.
Working closely with your caseworker and hearing clinic ensures the process goes as smoothly as possible.
Other Ways to Reduce Hearing Aid Costs
If you don’t qualify for Ontario Works, or if OW only covers part of the cost, there are still several other funding options to explore:
Other Government Funding Programs
- Assistive Devices Program (ADP): Provides partial coverage for hearing aids and services for Ontario residents with long-term hearing loss. For more information on ADP, read our full guide here.
- Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP): May fully cover hearing aids for individuals with disabilities who meet the program requirements. Read our ODSP guide for more information.
- Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB): Offers hearing aid coverage for eligible First Nations and Inuit peoples.
- Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB): Provides hearing aid funding if hearing loss is related to workplace noise exposure. To learn more about WSIB read our full guide here.
- Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC): Offers comprehensive hearing aid coverage for eligible Canadian veterans. Learn more about VAC here.
Additional Funding Sources
- Private Insurance or Workplace Benefits: Many health plans provide partial reimbursement for hearing aids and related services.
- Financing Plans: Most hearing clinics, including Hearing Solutions, offer flexible financing. Options include 0% interest for 12 months and longer-term plans to make hearing aids more affordable.
By looking into these alternatives, individuals can reduce out-of-pocket costs and ensure they have access to the hearing care they need.
Next Steps
For Ontarians living on a limited income, the cost of hearing aids can feel out of reach. Ontario Works provides an important safety net by helping with the cost of essential medical devices like hearing aids, ensuring people can stay connected and engaged in daily life.
If you think you might qualify, the first step is to book a hearing test with a licensed provider and speak with your Ontario Works caseworker about your options. Even if OW doesn’t cover the full cost, there are several other programs and financing options that can make hearing aids more affordable.
References:
Hearing Solutions (n.d.) Cost of Hearing Aids. https://www.hearingsolutions.ca/hearing-aids/cost-of-hearing-aids/
Hearing Solutions (n.d.) Financing and Funding Support. https://www.hearingsolutions.ca/hearing-aids/hearing-aid-prices/financing-and-funding-support/
Hearing Solutions (13, March, 2025) Is There Government Funding For A Hearing Aid Purchase? https://www.hearingsolutions.ca/is-there-government-funding-for-a-hearing-aid-purchase/
Hearing Solutions (3, August, 2023) How to Receive Hearing Aid Financial Assistance in Ontario. https://www.hearingsolutions.ca/how-to-receive-hearing-aid-financial-assistance-in-ontario/
Government of Ontario (31, May, 2022) Ontario Works health-related benefits. https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-works-health-related-benefits
Port Credit Audiology and Hearing Aid Clinic (8, February, 2024) The Auditory Lifeline: How Ontario Works Supports Hearing Aid Coverage. https://pcaudiology.ca/patient-resources/the-auditory-lifeline-how-ontario-works-supports-hearing-aid-coverage/
Hearing Aid Source (9, January, 2024) Navigating Ontario Works for Hearing Aid Assistance: A Comprehensive Guide. https://hearingaidsource.ca/patient-resources/navigating-ontario-works-for-hearing-aid-assistance-a-comprehensive-guide
