Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care whose VA provider says they need the device. Eyeglasses have extra rules, such as a compensable service-connected rating or a Purple Heart.
What it is
VA's Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service provides devices that help you hear, see, move and live on your own. That covers a lot:
- Hearing aids and hearing assistive devices
- Eyeglasses and contact lenses (for eligible veterans), plus low-vision tools
- Artificial arms, legs, hands and feet
- Braces, orthotic shoes and shoe inserts
- Wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and canes
- Home medical equipment like hospital beds and oxygen
- Supplies like CPAP parts and prosthetic socks
Hearing aids
If you're enrolled in VA health care, you can get a hearing test at a VA audiology clinic. If an audiologist says you need hearing aids, VA fits them at no cost. Batteries, repairs and replacements are also free while you stay eligible. You don't need a service-connected rating for hearing loss.
Ordering batteries and accessories:
- Online through VA.gov's hearing aid supplies tool
- By phone: 303-273-6200 (press 1 to reorder batteries, 2 for an agent, 3 for repairs)
- By mail: Send the blue VA Form 2346 from your last order to the Denver Logistics Center
Reorder when you have about a month of batteries left.
Eyeglasses
Routine eye exams are covered if you're in VA health care. Glasses are covered if you:
- Have a service-connected rating that pays compensation
- Are a former prisoner of war
- Received a Purple Heart
- Get benefits under 38 U.S.C. 1151 (injuries from VA care)
- Get increased pension for being housebound or needing aid and attendance
You may also qualify if you have vision problems caused by an illness or injury VA is treating (like diabetes, stroke, MS, TBI or cataract surgery), or if your vision affects your ability to do daily tasks.
Prosthetic limbs and other devices
Veterans with amputations or limb loss can get custom prosthetics, fittings, and training at VA amputation care centers. Your VA provider writes a prescription, and the prosthetics team handles the rest. VA also offers adaptive sports equipment in some cases.
Other help for vision and hearing loss
VA runs Blind Rehabilitation Centers and local low-vision clinics that teach skills like reading with magnifiers, using a white cane, cooking safely and using talking devices. If you have both vision and hearing loss, VA can coordinate care for both. You don't need a service-connected rating for most of these programs, only VA health care enrollment and a provider's referral.
How to get started, step by step
- Enroll in VA health care. Apply online or call 877-222-8387.
- Tell your primary care provider what you need. Mention hearing trouble, vision changes, falls, or mobility problems.
- Get a referral to audiology, eye care, or a prosthetics clinic.
- Get fitted and trained. Ask questions about care and cleaning.
- Order supplies and repairs as needed. Don't pay out of pocket.
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying hearing aids yourself when VA would give them to you for free.
- Assuming you need a rating. For hearing aids and most devices, you don't.
- Ignoring hearing loss and tinnitus claims. If they came from service, you can also file a disability claim.
- Waiting until batteries run out. Reorder early.
Related benefits
See our guides on VA health care, the automobile allowance and adaptive equipment, the clothing allowance, HISA grants, and Specially Adapted Housing grants.
Last reviewed November 2026. WeSpeakVA is not the VA. Rules and amounts change, so confirm on VA.gov or with an accredited representative.