In addition to pricing on food and other goods that has earned a cultlike following, big-box retailer Costco allows refunds or exchanges on pretty much everything, no receipt required, and offers pharmacy services as well as hearing centers.
Anyone experiencing hearing difficulty may wonder whether Costco's Hearing Aid Centers are worth going to.
The size and type of hearing aids needed varies from person to person, and it can be challenging or overwhelming finding the right pair. Oftentimes, the products are expensive and not covered by insurance (or only partially covered). In most cases, they aren't covered at all. While hearing aids and durable equipment from Costco tend to be more affordable than what private clinics offer, it still may not be the best choice for every customer.
So before you decide to try Costco's hearing center, here is what you need to know — especially now that these devices can be sold over-the-counter.
@the__replacement Getting impressions for my first hearing aids. Thanks @Costco Wholesale #hearingloss #hearingaids #hearingimpaired #costcofinds #hoh #hardofhearing #accessibility ♬ Sunroof - Nicky Youre & dazy
Frequently Asked Questions
What services are offered at Costco's Hearing Aid Centers?
Costco's Hearing Aid Centers are available in most parts of the country, since there are more than 500 warehouses in the chain nationwide. The centers are usually staffed with licensed specialists who can administer tests and help you decide which products may work best for you. (Unlike audiologists, hearing aid specialists are not required to have an advanced degree in audiology).
Some Costco hearing centers also have audiologists on staff. If it’s important for you to see an audiologist, make sure to call the Costco you're planning to visit to make sure this service is available before booking an appointment.
Free services offered at Costco's hearing centers include:
- hearing test (takes about an hour)
- hearing aid product demonstrations
- follow-up appointments
- hearing aid cleanings and checkups
- hearing aid adjustments
To get started with Costco's Hearing Aid Center, you can make an appointment online and expedite the process by filling out Costco's patient intake form (available in English and Spanish) before going in.
Do I need to be a member to use Costco's hearing centers?
Yes. Unlike its pharmacy, which is available to anyone, you must be a registered member. Members can schedule a "no-obligation hearing test" at any Costco Hearing Aid Center with no additional charge, with the option to buy hearing aids the same day.
How much do Costco's brand of hearing aids cost and which ones are available?
Costco is able to extend savings to its members by buying in bulk and selling hearing aids at a lower or discounted price. Compared with an average cost of $2,000 to $3,000 for a pair, Costco sells for around $1,500. (The Kirkland Signature 10.0T model is even cheaper, starting at $1,399 per pair).
Costco typically also offers a two-year "loss and damage coverage" with no deducible, as well as a three-year warranty that varies by model. Note that because Costco's savings are typically folded into bundled packages, it does not offer payment plans on hearing aids; you'll have to pay the full cost upfront.
Costco carries five hearing aid brands:
- Kirkland Signature
- Jabra
- Philips
- Phonak
- Rexton
Does Costco accept insurance?
Generally, Costco doesn’t accept insurance for hearing aid products. Unfortunately, hearing aids aren’t usually covered by health insurance plans, including Medicare. If you have an insurance plan that covers hearing aids, you can ask the specialist at Costco if the products you need are covered. You’ll have to pay for the aids first and submit a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement.
Are Costco's hearing aids available for shipping?
No. Costco's hearing products are available for purchase in-person only. But Costco offers remote limited support services for some of its hearing aid products.