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If you need a hearing aid but are worried about the cost, help is available through the hearing aid government subsidy in Singapore. Financial support can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and make hearing devices more affordable. This guide explains how the subsidy works, who is eligible, and how to apply step by step.
Hearing aids can improve your quality of life and daily communication. With the right information, you can choose a device that fits your needs and receive the support you qualify for.
What Is the Hearing Aid Government Subsidy?
The hearing aid government subsidy in Singapore, also known as the Singapore hearing aid grant, helps reduce the upfront cost of hearing aids for eligible individuals. Administered by agencies like the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) and in partnership with private providers, this financial aid ensures that hearing devices are more affordable.
Key Points:
- Covers part of the cost of hearing aids and accessories.
- Aims to make hearing devices accessible for seniors, children, and adults with hearing loss.
Who Is Eligible for Hearing Aid Financial Assistance?
To receive assistance, you typically need to meet these conditions:
- Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Diagnosed Hearing Loss confirmed by a licensed audiologist or ENT specialist.
- Needs Hearing Aids for daily living and communication.
- Income Cap – household income must fall within the subsidy criteria.
- For older adults, additional eligibility under programs like CHAS (Community Health Assist Scheme) and PAssion Silver may apply.
Types of Hearing Aid Subsidy Programs in Singapore
Singapore offers several subsidy schemes:
Scheme | Target Group | Subsidy Range |
AIC Subsidy | Seniors under the AIC scheme | Up to 70% subsidy |
CHAS + Passion Silver | The elderly with lower income | Up to $300 per ear |
Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) | Lower-income families | Additional Subsidy on top of CHAS |
Early Intervention Programme for Infants & Children (EIPIC) | Children under 7 with hearing loss | Full or partial funding |
Some clinics also offer installation, fitting, and follow-up services under these programs. These may include ear measurements and custom fittings as part of the package.
How to Apply for Government Funding for Hearing Devices
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Get a hearing test from a certified audiologist or ENT under the Ministry of Health’s Audiology and Speech Services. Consider a pure tone audiometry test or ABR/ASSR evaluation for accurate results.
- Check subsidy eligibility via AIC, CHAS, or MSF.
- Visit an approved centre or hospital – you can find a list under the AIC or CHAS directory.
- Choose your hearing aid model and brands (e.g., Signia, Resound, Phonak).
- Receive quotation and billing – the subsidy is applied directly, so you only pay the net amount.
- Final fitting and orientation – includes follow-up checks, batteries, etc.
Benefits of Using Subsidised Hearing Aids
- Greater affordability, especially for multiple-ear fittings.
- Access to better technology (digital, rechargeable, noise reduction).
- Ongoing support – from follow-up checks to adjustments and repairs.
- Improved quality of life – better communication, mental health, and social life.
Common Hearing Aid Brands Under Subsidy
Many approved centres provide well-known brands, including:
- Signia hearing aids – sleek designs, smartphone-ready
- Phonak hearing aids – ideal for complex hearing loss
- Resound Hearing Aid Singapore offers behind-the-ear and in-ear models.
- Starkey Hearing Aids – custom fit and Bluetooth-enabled.
Maintenance and Ongoing Support
Even after installation, you’ll get help:
- Regular check-ups and cleanings
- Battery and part replacements
- Adjustments when your hearing changes
- Repairs in case of damage
These services are often included in the subsidy program or available at discounted rates.
Tips for Choosing the Right Subsidy Path
Choosing the right subsidy path can help you save money and get better hearing support. Here is how to make an informed decision.
Know Your Clinic’s Subsidy Tiers
- Not all clinics offer the same level of subsidies
- Government-affiliated hospitals and clinics often provide higher or direct subsidies
- Private clinics partnered with AIC may also offer co-funding or bundled packages
Always ask your audiologist if their clinic is part of an approved AIC provider list
Choose the Right Hearing Aid
Different hearing aids serve different needs:
- Behind-the-ear models are suitable for most types of hearing loss
- In-ear devices are discreet and fit inside the ear canal
- Digital models come with features like Bluetooth and noise filtering
Consider Rechargeable versus Disposable Batteries
Type: Rechargeable
- Pros: Saves cost over time, better for the environment
- Cons: Higher cost at the beginning
Type: Disposable
- Pros: Easy to replace, no need for a charger
- Cons: Ongoing cost, less sustainable
Rechargeable hearing aids are a smart, long-term option, especially if you want less maintenance
Ask About Service Packages
Some clinics offer bundled plans that include:
- Regular cleaning and checks
- Battery replacements
- Programming adjustments
- Warranty extension
Packages may be partly covered under a subsidy or available at a discounted rate
Ask your provider what is included in the service package and how long it lasts
Plan for Future Upgrades
- Most hearing aids last between three to five years
- Keep records of your hearing levels so you know when it is time for an upgrade
- Check if you are eligible to reuse the subsidy after a few years
- Clinics may also maintain a hearing progress chart to help you track your needs
How to Get Started: Your Hearing Aid Journey in Five Steps
Getting help with your hearing does not have to be hard. Here is a step-by-step plan to get your hearing aid subsidy and support
Step One: Book a Hearing Test
- Visit an MOH-accredited audiologist or ENT specialist
- Get a diagnosis report to confirm the level of hearing loss
Common hearing tests include:
- Pure Tone Audiometry
- Tympanometry
- ABR or ASSR for babies or individuals who cannot respond verbally
Step Two: Discuss Subsidy Options
- Talk to the clinic about available options such as AIC, CHAS, MSF, or WIS
- Prepare documents like proof of income, NRIC, and test results
- Ask how much support you qualify for and how it is applied
You can also contact the Agency for Integrated Care for direct support and information
Step Three: Choose Your Device and Brand
Match your hearing aid to your:
- Lifestyle such as active, working, or retired
- Budget including maintenance and extra accessories
- Technology needs such as Bluetooth, water resistance, or app control
Brands like Signia, Phonak, Resound, and Starkey are approved for subsidy and well-known for quality
Step Four: Schedule Fittings and Follow-Ups
After choosing your device:
- Attend an initial fitting session
- Go to follow-up visits to adjust and fine-tune your hearing aid
- Learn how to clean and care for the device properly
Step Five: Plan for Long-Term Care
Stay in contact with your provider for:
- Battery replacement
- Repairs
- Performance checks
- Upgrades when required
Mark your calendar for six-month or yearly checkups to keep your hearing aid in good condition
Conclusion
The hearing aid government subsidy and Singapore hearing aid grant make improved hearing possible for many. Through hearing aid financial assistance, you can access quality devices, ongoing support, and a better quality of life—all at a fraction of the cost.
If you suspect hearing loss, schedule a hearing test today, check subsidy eligibility, and take a step towards clearer hearing and better living.
Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with hearing loss may qualify. You must meet specific income criteria set by the Ministry of Health, AIC, or other related support schemes. Children, adults, and seniors may all be eligible based on their condition and income level.
The subsidy amount usually covers between 50 to 70 per cent of the cost of hearing aids. This depends on which scheme you are using, such as CHAS, MediFund, or the AIC Enabling Fund. For example, a hearing aid that costs two thousand dollars may receive up to one thousand four hundred dollars in subsidy.
Yes. Children with hearing loss can get full or partial financial assistance. Support may come from the Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children, Special Education School subsidies, or Ministry of Social and Family Development grants.
Yes. To qualify for a hearing aid subsidy, you must get a diagnosis from a licensed audiologist or an ENT specialist. This ensures your hearing condition is officially assessed and documented.
Some clinics include basic repair services under their service plans. Major repairs or parts replacement may come at an extra cost. Always check what is included in your hearing aid service package.
Yes. You can choose from approved and trusted hearing aid brands available at accredited clinics. Popular brands include Signia, Phonak, Starkey, and Resound. Make sure the clinic is recognised under subsidy schemes before making a purchase.
Follow-up visits are important to make sure the hearing aid fits well and works properly. Your first follow-up is usually one to two weeks after the fitting. After that, checkups every six to twelve months are recommended to maintain good hearing health.
If your hearing becomes worse or different, your hearing aid can be reprogrammed to match your new hearing level. If your current device no longer meets your needs, you may be eligible for a subsidised upgrade or a replacement. You will need to go through another hearing assessment and apply again for funding.
Rechargeable hearing aids may cost more at first compared to those with disposable batteries. However, they save you money over time because you do not need to buy batteries regularly. They are also more convenient and better for the environment.
No. The subsidy is not limited to a one-time use. You may be able to access it again when your device needs replacement or when your hearing condition changes. Eligibility will be reviewed each time you apply.