Hearing aids buying guide: NHS or private?
Last checked November 2026. Offers and rules change: confirm with the provider before you rely on them.
You do not have to buy hearing aids. The NHS provides them free on long-term loan, with free batteries and repairs, if a hearing specialist finds you need them. Going private gives more choice of style and often a shorter wait, but can cost thousands of pounds.
This page is a shopping guide, not medical advice. If you are worried about your hearing, see your GP. If you lose hearing suddenly, in one or both ears, contact your GP or NHS 111 straight away.
Start with the NHS route
The NHS advises seeing a GP if you have problems with your hearing. The GP can check for simple causes, such as wax or infection, and may refer you to a hearing specialist (an audiologist) for a hearing test. In some areas you can go to an NHS hearing service directly without a GP referral, and some high-street opticians and hearing shops provide NHS hearing services on the health service's behalf. Arrangements differ between areas and between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so ask your surgery what applies locally.
If the test shows hearing aids would help, according to the NHS:
- the hearing aids are free, provided as a long-term loan;
- batteries and repairs are free from the service that fitted them;
- follow-up appointments and aftercare are free;
- you may be charged if you lose or damage an aid and it has to be replaced.
NHS hearing aids are modern digital aids, programmed to your own hearing test. Most are the behind-the-ear type. The NHS website notes that smaller in-the-ear styles are usually only available privately, and that NHS waiting times can sometimes be longer. Read the NHS guide to hearing aids for the current details.
Going private
You can go straight to a private hearing aid provider without seeing a GP. The advantages are usually a shorter wait, a wider choice of styles including very small ones, and more features such as rechargeable batteries and direct connection to a mobile phone.
The disadvantage is cost. The NHS website says private hearing aids can cost from around £500 to £3,500 or more for each aid, at the time of writing (November 2026). Most people need two, and aids typically need replacing after several years. Private hearing aid dispensers in the UK must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC); you can check a name on the HCPC's online register.
The main types
- Behind the ear (BTE). The working part sits behind the ear with a thin tube to an earpiece. Sturdy, powerful and the easiest to handle. The standard NHS type.
- Receiver in the ear (RITE or RIC). Similar, but smaller, with a fine wire to a tiny speaker in the ear.
- In the ear (ITE) and in the canal (ITC). Moulded to fill part of the ear. Less visible, but smaller batteries and controls.
- Completely in the canal (CIC). The smallest. Fiddly to handle and not suitable for every hearing loss.
What to look for
- Can you handle it? Try putting it in, taking it out and changing or charging the battery yourself before you commit.
- Rechargeable or disposable batteries. Rechargeable aids drop into a cradle overnight, which is far easier than changing tiny batteries.
- A telecoil ("T" or loop setting) for loop systems in banks, churches, theatres and on some home phones.
- Bluetooth if you want calls and television sound to play straight into the aids.
- Controls you can use: a physical button, a phone app, or fully automatic.
- Aftercare. Adjustment appointments in the first months matter more than the brand.
Questions to ask a private provider
- What is the total price for both ears, including the test, fitting and follow-up appointments?
- How long is the trial or money-back period, and is any fee kept if I return them?
- How long is the warranty, and what do repairs cost after it ends?
- Is aftercare free for the life of the aids, or for a fixed period?
- What do batteries, wax filters and replacement parts cost each year?
- What happens if I lose one? Is loss covered, and for how long?
- Do you sell several manufacturers' aids, or mainly one?
- Can I have a copy of my hearing test results (the audiogram)?
Take someone with you, get the quote in writing and do not sign on the day. A reputable provider will be happy for you to go away and think.
Help a family member can give
- Come to the fitting appointment and learn how to clean the aids and change tubes, domes and batteries.
- Connect the aids to the mobile phone or television streamer if they support it.
- Encourage wearing them every day. It takes weeks for the brain to adjust, and aids left in a drawer help nobody.
- Book a follow-up if sounds are sharp, whistly or uncomfortable. Adjustment is normal and free on the NHS.
Mistakes to avoid
- Paying privately without trying the NHS first, simply because you did not know NHS aids were free.
- Choosing the smallest aid rather than the one you can manage.
- Buying on a discount that "ends today".
- Giving up in the first fortnight. Go back and ask for an adjustment.
Common questions
Are NHS hearing aids worse than private ones?
No. They are modern digital aids from the same manufacturers, set up for your hearing. Private providers offer more styles and extra features, not a different kind of hearing.
Do I get VAT relief on private hearing aids?
Hearing aids are generally treated differently for VAT from most goods, and the rules are technical. Ask the provider to show how VAT is applied on your quote. Our VAT relief guide covers relief on disability equipment more widely.
Can I get help with the cost of private hearing aids?
There is no general grant, because the NHS provides aids free. If you receive Attendance Allowance you may spend it as you choose.