Your Guide to L&I Hearing Aid Benefits and Replacement Coverage

If you've experienced work-related hearing loss in Washington State, Labor & Industries (L&I) covers the full cost of hearing aids, batteries, and ongoing care at no expense to you. Understanding your benefits can help you access the hearing healthcare you need to stay connected at work and at home.

What Does L&I Cover for Hearing Loss?

L&I provides comprehensive coverage for workers who have sustained occupational hearing loss. Your benefits include hearing aids from leading manufacturers, batteries, repairs, and follow-up appointments with a licensed audiologist.

The coverage extends beyond just the initial fitting. You receive ongoing support to make sure your hearing aids continue meeting your needs as your work environment or hearing changes over time.

Who Qualifies for L&I Hearing Aid Benefits?

You may qualify for L&I hearing aid coverage if your hearing loss resulted from workplace noise exposure. Common qualifying occupations include construction, manufacturing, aviation, military service, and any environment where you were regularly exposed to hazardous noise levels without adequate protection.

Hearing loss starts with long or repeated exposures to sounds at or above 85 decibels. If you've filed an accepted workers' compensation claim for occupational hearing loss, you're entitled to these benefits.

The L&I Hearing Aid Process

The process begins with a comprehensive hearing evaluation, which is at your own cost if you are not referred by the L&I office. We perform diagnostic testing to determine the extent of your hearing loss and your communication needs. We then refer you to a medical doctor who specializes in L&I and assist you with applying for the claim.

Once your L&I claim for hearing loss is approved, we work with you to select appropriate hearing aids from manufacturers we partner with, including Phonak, ReSound, Oticon, Signia, Widex, Starkey, Unitron, and Sonic Innovations. We program your devices using Real Ear Measurement (REM), which verifies that your hearing aids are providing the right amount of amplification for your unique hearing loss.

First-time hearing aid users receive counseling and education on proper use, maintenance, and realistic expectations. We schedule follow-up appointments during your first few weeks to address any concerns and make adjustments.

When Can You Replace Your L&I Hearing Aids?

L&I allows hearing aid replacement every five years, or sooner if your devices are damaged beyond repair or your hearing has changed significantly. The five-year timeline reflects typical hearing aid lifespan and ensures you have access to current technology.

If your hearing aids malfunction or break during the five-year period, repairs are covered. We work with you to determine whether repair or replacement makes the most sense.

What About Batteries and Maintenance?

L&I covers the cost of hearing aid batteries for the life of your devices. Many newer hearing aids offer rechargeable options, which can simplify daily use and eliminate the need for disposable batteries.

Routine maintenance and cleaning are part of your coverage. We recommend regular check-ins to clean your devices, check their performance, and make any needed adjustments.

The Impact of Untreated Hearing Loss

Work-related hearing loss affects more than just your job performance. People with hearing loss face increased risks for depression, falls, decreased quality of life, and developing dementia. Hearing loss is the #1 modifiable risk factor for dementia when identified and addressed in mid-life.

Studies have shown that hearing aids address these risks and provide neurocognitive benefits. First-time hearing aid users need counseling and education on the importance of wearing hearing aids consistently. We work with you during the first few weeks to address your unique issues and provide personalized help.

Schedule Your L&I Hearing Evaluation

If you suspect you have job-related hearing loss, contact us to begin the claims process. We'll guide you through diagnostic testing and refer you to a state-certified independent medical examiner if needed.

Once your claim is approved, you'll receive hearing aids at no charge, with replacement coverage every five years. We encourage family members to attend appointments with you. Our patients have direct communication with their audiologist via email between appointments.

Don't let work-related hearing loss keep you disconnected from important conversations. Call us at 425-455-0526 to schedule your evaluation.