New Zealand residents aged 16 years and older with a permanent hearing loss, who are not eligible for other funding sources, may qualify for a subsidy of $511.11 per hearing aid, available once every six years.

New Zealand residents aged 16 years and older with a permanent hearing loss may be eligible for the Hearing Aid Funding Scheme, which covers the cost of hearing aids if certain criteria are met:

• Have had a significant hearing loss since childhood
• Have both a hearing loss and another impairment that limits your ability to communicate safely and effectively e.g. visual, intellectual or physical.
• Have had a sudden significant hearing loss within the last six months
• Have a community services card and are either working more than 30 hours per week, in full-time study, seeking employment, doing voluntary work, or are the main carer of a dependent person

You may be eligible for ACC funding if your hearing loss is due to workplace noise exposure or a sudden trauma. I can assess whether you're a potential ACC candidate and support you through the claims process. ACC provides varying levels of funding based on how much of your hearing loss is related to injury or noise exposure. Their contribution typically ranges between $3,000 and $5,000 for a pair of hearing aids. They also help cover the costs of appointments, consumables, maintenance and repairs.

If your hearing loss or tinnitus developed during service with the New Zealand Defence Force, you may be eligible for Veterans' Affairs funding. If your claim is accepted, Veterans’ Affairs provides funding for your hearing assessment, hearing aids and ongoing maintenance and repair costs.

If the cost of hearing aids is a financial barrier, you may apply for a loan through Work and Income NZ. Liz can provide a supporting letter to assist with your application.