This is a guide to ACC funding for hearing aids in New Zealand, focusing on eligibility and the application process.
- What it is: ACC funding helps cover the costs of hearing aids and audiology services for New Zealanders whose hearing loss is caused by an injury, specifically noise exposure in the workplace.
- Eligibility: To qualify, your hearing loss must be directly linked to a work-related injury, such as long-term noise exposure or a single traumatic event. It does not cover hearing loss due to natural aging.
- The Application Process: The process involves seeing an audiologist to start a claim (Form ACC45), undergoing a hearing assessment. An ENT assessment may be required, as determined by ACC.
- What's Covered: ACC has a number of different funding bands which will be confirmed to you following a scuessull apprlcation. At Resonate, we offer the best hearing aids regardless of the funding that you qualify for. Learn more about Resonate's ACC offer.
- Timeline: The approval process typically takes 4–8 weeks, but can be longer if more information is needed. If a claim is declined, you can request a review or seek alternative funding options.
- Other options: If your hearing loss is not injury-related, you may be eligible for the Disability Support Services Aid Subsidy Scheme.
Hearing loss can be life-changing, but for many, it’s also treatable—especially when it results from a workplace injury or noise exposure. If you’ve experienced hearing loss related to your job or an accident, you may be eligible for ACC-funded hearing aids.
At Resonate Health, we understand that navigating funding pathways can be confusing. This guide is here to support you through the process of understanding, applying for, and making the most of ACC hearing aid funding.
What Is ACC Hearing Aid Funding?
The ACC hearing aid funding scheme helps cover the cost of hearing aids and related audiology services for New Zealanders whose hearing loss has been caused (or worsened) by injury, particularly noise exposure in the workplace.
If accepted, ACC may contribute to:
- Hearing aid devices (partial or full funding)
- Ear moulds and accessories
- Ongoing maintenance and repairs
- Follow-up audiology consultations
Common Causes of ACC-Related Hearing Loss
ACC funding is only available if your hearing loss is linked to an identifiable injury—commonly from:
- Long-term noise exposure: In noisy work environments (construction, forestry, factories, etc.).
- Single traumatic incidents: Such as explosions or head injuries.
To qualify, the hearing loss must not be solely due to age or natural degeneration.
How Is Hearing Loss Diagnosed for ACC?
The diagnosis process for an ACC claim usually includes:
- Audiological Testing: A full hearing assessment by a qualified audiologist.
- Noise Exposure History: A detailed work history and questionnaire to identify risk factors.
A report prepared by an Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) may be required for certian claims, as determinded by ACC.
You’ll need this evidence for ACC to accept the claim.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for ACC Hearing Aid Funding
- See Your Audiologist: Start by discussing your hearing concerns. If injury-related hearing loss is suspected, your audiologist can help initiate an ACC claim.
- File an ACC Claim (Form ACC45): This is typically submitted by your healthcare provider to ACC; we will submit it on your behalf.
- Attend a Hearing Assessment: Visit one our Studios for a diagnostic evaluation.
- Specialist Review: An ENT assessment takes place for certain claims. ACC will determine if this additional assessment is required.
- Wait for ACC’s Decision: ACC will notify you if your claim is accepted and how much funding is available. While you wait, you can join Resonate’s Unlimited subscription to allow you to start receiving the benefits of wearing hearing aids straight away. If your claim is rejected by ACC, Resonate will discuss how you can continue to benefit from the Unlimited subscription.
- Choose Hearing Aids and Fitting: If your ACC application is approved, your audiologist will fit you with your hearing aids.
What Does ACC Cover—and What Might You Pay?
ACC has a number of different funding bands, and depending which band a person qualifies for will dictate the level of funding provided.
With Resonate, regardless of which funding band you qualify for, you will be fitted with top of the line ReSound ViviaTM 9 hearing aids with no surcharge required. You can find out more about our ACC Hearing Aid offer here.
You may also be eligible for additional support through:
- Disability Support Services Aid Subsidy Scheme: For non-ACC-related hearing loss.
Learn more. - Veteran’s Affairs: For military service-related hearing loss. Details can be found at www.veteransaffairs.mil.nz
Benefits of ACC-Funded Hearing Aids
Receiving ACC funding for your hearing aids can bring numerous benefits:
- Improved ability to work and communicate
- Enhanced social engagement and wellbeing
- Reduced risk of isolation and cognitive decline
- Ongoing support for repairs and maintenance
FAQ: ACC Hearing Aid Funding in NZ
We've complied a list of the frequently asked questions we receive about ACC-funded hearing aids
ACC funding supports New Zealanders who have experienced hearing loss caused by:
- A person's paid work environment, where the loss happened over time;
- A traumatic event, such as a head injury or a sudden loud noise like an explosion;
- Or a treatment injury, where the hearing loss was caused by treatment from a Registered Health provider, or due to dealyed diagnosis or treatment.
ACC does not cover hearing loss caused by disease, illness or the natural aging process. Its purpose is to help restore a person's quality of life and functional hearing through access to hearing aids and related audiology services.
ACC covers hearing loss resulting from an injury—not natural aging or pre-existing medical conditions. If your hearing loss is due to age or other health issues, you'll need to explore alternative funding options like the Disability Support Services subsidy.
The approval timeline varies, but it typically takes 4–8 weeks from claim submission. This period may extend if additional assessments, specialist reviews (like an ENT), or further information are required by ACC.
If your claim is declined, you have options:
- You can request a review or reassessment of your claim.
- Provide additional supporting evidence from an ENT specialist or audiologist.
- Consider exploring alternative funding schemes for support, such as the Disability Support Services subsidy.
Hi, I’m Alec, the audiologist at Resonate Health Bayfair!
