Can I get help paying for hearing aids, eye exams or glasses?
Last checked:
Help with hearing aids, eye exams and glasses depends on where you live. Many provinces cover a routine eye exam from 65, few pay for glasses, and only some help with hearing aids. This check takes a few minutes.
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How old are you?
Most provincial programs for eye exams and hearing aids start at 65.
We cannot tell from your answers
Most programs start at 65, but some help sooner.
Why
Most provinces cover a routine eye exam from age 65. Eye exams needed because of a medical problem, such as an eye injury, are usually covered at any age. A few programs start earlier: Quebec's hearing aid program is for people 19 and older with enough hearing loss, and the Northwest Territories covers vision care products for seniors 60 and older.
What to do next
- Ask your optometrist or hearing clinic what your provincial plan covers at your age.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Where do you live?
Which province do you live in?
Which of these is your province or territory?
Which province do you live in?
Which province do you live in?
Which territory do you live in?
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
What do you need help paying for?
If you need both, run this check again for the other one.
Likely eligible
Ontario's Assistive Devices Program likely helps pay for hearing aids.
Why
The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) pays 75% of the cost of hearing aids, up to $500 per ear. You pay the rest.
What to do next
- Get assessed by an ADP-registered audiologist. An ADP-registered vendor sends the application.
- Ask for a written price that shows what ADP pays and what you pay. Some models cost more than the program amount.
- A device can be replaced when it is worn out, out of warranty and cannot be repaired, or when your hearing changes.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
OHIP likely covers your eye exams.
Why
For people 65 and older, OHIP covers 1 major eye exam every 18 months and 2 follow-up minor assessments. Glasses are not covered.
What to do next
- Book with an optometrist and show your health card.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Has a hearing test shown an average hearing loss of at least 35 decibels in your better ear?
An audiologist measures this with a hearing test called an audiogram.
Likely eligible
RAMQ likely covers a hearing aid for you.
Why
RAMQ's Hearing Devices Program covers a hearing aid, its repair and replacement for people 19 and older with an average hearing loss of at least 35 decibels in the better ear.
What to do next
- People 65 and older need an audiogram and a certificate from an audiologist.
- Then see a Quebec hearing aid specialist (audioprosthetist) within one year.
- Questions: call RAMQ at 1-800-561-9749.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
Your hearing loss is likely below RAMQ's level.
Why
RAMQ's Hearing Devices Program is for an average hearing loss of at least 35 decibels in the better ear.
What to do next
- If your hearing changes, ask your audiologist about a new test.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
A hearing test decides this.
Why
RAMQ covers a hearing aid if your average hearing loss is at least 35 decibels in your better ear.
What to do next
- Get a hearing test (audiogram) and a certificate from an audiologist.
- If you qualify, see a Quebec hearing aid specialist (audioprosthetist) within one year.
- Questions: call RAMQ at 1-800-561-9749.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
RAMQ likely covers a yearly eye exam.
Why
RAMQ covers 1 eye exam per year for people 65 and older. Glasses and contact lenses are not covered.
What to do next
- Book with an optometrist and show your health insurance card.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
BC's Medical Services Plan does not cover hearing aids.
Why
In British Columbia, MSP does not pay for hearing aids. Our guide does not list another provincial program for seniors.
What to do next
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
MSP likely covers a yearly eye exam.
Why
In British Columbia, MSP covers an annual eye exam for seniors 65 and older. Glasses are not covered.
What to do next
- Book with an optometrist and show your health card.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
Alberta Aids to Daily Living likely helps pay for hearing aids.
Why
Low-income seniors with documented hearing loss can get 2 hearing aids or a personal listening device once every 5 years. Other seniors can get funding toward 1 hearing aid every 5 years. Most people pay 25% of the cost, up to $500 per person or family per year. Low-income Albertans do not pay this share.
What to do next
- Get assessed first by an approved AADL vendor. AADL does not pay you back for devices you buy before approval.
- Ask for a written price that shows what AADL pays and what you pay.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Are you approved for Alberta's Seniors Financial Assistance?
For the 2026-27 benefit year, the income limit is $32,690 for a single senior and $65,380 for a couple.
Likely eligible
You likely get a yearly eye exam and help with glasses.
Why
Alberta's plan covers 1 complete routine eye exam per benefit year for seniors 65 and older. Low-income seniors approved for Seniors Financial Assistance may get up to $230 every 3 years for prescription glasses through Optical Assistance for Seniors (2026-27 benefit year).
What to do next
- Book with an optometrist and show your Alberta health care card.
- Ask the optometrist how to claim Optical Assistance for Seniors, or call Alberta Supports at 1-877-644-9992.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
Alberta's plan likely covers a yearly eye exam.
Why
Alberta's plan covers 1 complete routine eye exam per benefit year for seniors 65 and older. Help with glasses (up to $230 every 3 years) is only for seniors approved for Seniors Financial Assistance.
What to do next
- Book with an optometrist and show your Alberta health care card.
- If your income is under $32,690 (single) or $65,380 (couple) for the 2026-27 benefit year, ask Alberta Supports about Seniors Financial Assistance at 1-877-644-9992.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Are you covered by Saskatchewan's Supplementary Health Benefits?
Likely eligible
Supplementary Health Benefits likely covers hearing tests and hearing aids.
Why
In Saskatchewan, hearing tests and hearing aids cost money, but Supplementary Health Benefits covers them for people who qualify.
What to do next
- Call Supplementary Health Benefits at 1-800-266-0695 before you buy, to confirm what is covered.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
You will likely pay for hearing aids yourself.
Why
In Saskatchewan, hearing tests and hearing aids cost money, whether from the health authority or a private clinic. Supplementary Health Benefits covers them only for people who qualify.
What to do next
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Ask Supplementary Health Benefits.
Why
Saskatchewan's Supplementary Health Benefits covers hearing tests and hearing aids for people who qualify. Others pay themselves.
What to do next
- Call Supplementary Health Benefits at 1-800-266-0695 to ask whether you are covered.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Does one of these apply to you?
You have diabetes, or you are covered by Supplementary Health, Family Health Benefits or Seniors Income Plan benefits.
Likely eligible
Your routine eye exam is likely covered.
Why
In Saskatchewan, routine eye exams are not covered for adults, except people with diabetes and people covered by Supplementary Health, Family Health Benefits or Seniors Income Plan benefits.
What to do next
- Book with an optometrist and ask them to confirm your coverage before the exam.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
You will likely pay for a routine eye exam.
Why
In Saskatchewan, routine eye exams are not covered for adults, except people with diabetes and people covered by Supplementary Health, Family Health Benefits or Seniors Income Plan benefits. Exams needed because of a medical problem are usually covered at any age.
What to do next
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Your health benefits decide this.
Why
In Saskatchewan, routine eye exams are covered for adults with diabetes and for people covered by Supplementary Health, Family Health Benefits or Seniors Income Plan benefits.
What to do next
- Call Supplementary Health Benefits at 1-800-266-0695 to ask whether you are covered.
- Ask your optometrist before the exam what you will pay.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Was your household net income last year under $80,000?
The Seniors Hearing Aid Program looks at household net income in the previous year. Your net income is shown on your tax return.
Likely eligible
Manitoba's Seniors Hearing Aid Program likely helps you.
Why
The program is for people 65 and older with household net income under $80,000 in the previous year. It pays up to $2,000 toward hearing aids, the hearing assessment and fitting, once every 5 years. Any amount your private insurance pays is subtracted.
What to do next
- Call the Seniors Hearing Aid Program at 1-844-403-4327 (Winnipeg: 204-945-5588) before you buy.
- In most programs, you must be approved before you buy. Devices bought first are often not paid back.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
Your income is likely too high for the Seniors Hearing Aid Program.
Why
Manitoba's Seniors Hearing Aid Program is for people 65 and older with household net income under $80,000 in the previous year.
What to do next
- If your income drops, check again next year.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Your household income decides this.
Why
Manitoba's Seniors Hearing Aid Program pays up to $2,000 every 5 years for people 65 and older with household net income under $80,000 in the previous year.
What to do next
- Add up the net income on last year's tax returns for everyone in your household.
- Call the Seniors Hearing Aid Program at 1-844-403-4327 to ask.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
Manitoba likely covers an eye exam and helps with glasses.
Why
Manitoba covers 1 routine eye exam every 2-year benefit period for people 65 and older. The Seniors' Eyeglass Program pays 80% of a fixed fee schedule after a deductible, for one pair every 3 years, or sooner if your vision changes.
What to do next
- Book with an optometrist and show your health card.
- For glasses, call the Seniors' Eyeglass Program at 1-800-297-8099, extension 7365 or 7366, to ask what you will pay.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
New Brunswick does not list a hearing aid program for seniors.
Why
Our guide found no provincial hearing aid program for seniors in New Brunswick. That does not mean no help exists.
What to do next
- Ask your hearing clinic or the New Brunswick government what help is available.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
New Brunswick Medicare likely does not pay for routine eye exams or glasses.
Why
Medicare in New Brunswick does not cover eye exams for glasses prescriptions (refractions), glasses or contact lenses. Exams needed because of a medical problem are usually covered.
What to do next
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Nova Scotia does not list a hearing aid program for seniors.
Why
Our guide found no provincial hearing aid program for seniors in Nova Scotia. That does not mean no help exists.
What to do next
- Ask your hearing clinic or the Nova Scotia government what help is available.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
MSI likely covers an eye exam every 2 years.
Why
In Nova Scotia, MSI covers a routine eye exam once every 2 years for people 65 and older.
What to do next
- Book with an optometrist and show your health card.
- Ask what glasses will cost. Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
PEI offers hearing tests, but likely not funded hearing aids for seniors.
Why
Health PEI offers hearing tests for adults. Funded hearing aids are for people up to age 21 only.
What to do next
- For a hearing test, call Health PEI Audiology at 1-844-344-8255.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
PEI does not list a program for seniors' eye exams or glasses.
Why
Our guide found no provincial program for seniors' eye exams or glasses on Prince Edward Island.
What to do next
- Ask your optometrist what you will pay before the exam.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Ask your regional health authority about help with hearing aids.
Why
In Newfoundland and Labrador, MCP does not cover medical appliances such as hearing aids. Other help may be available.
What to do next
- Ask your regional health authority or income support office about help.
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Are you a low-income long-term care or community support services client?
This means you get long-term care or community support services and had a financial assessment.
Likely eligible
You can likely get help with an eye exam and glasses.
Why
From January 1, 2026, low-income long-term care and community support clients may get up to $100 for an eye exam, $290 for single vision glasses and $350 for bifocals.
What to do next
- Ask your financial assessment officer how to claim.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely not eligible
MCP likely does not pay for your eye exam or glasses.
Why
In Newfoundland and Labrador, MCP does not cover eye exams for glasses or optometrists' services. Help with vision costs is for low-income long-term care and community support clients.
What to do next
- Check whether a private or retiree insurance plan pays for hearing aids or glasses.
- Some service clubs and charities help with glasses and hearing aids. Call 211 to ask about local help.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: 211 help line
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Ask whether you are a community support client.
Why
From January 1, 2026, low-income long-term care and community support clients may get up to $100 for an eye exam, $290 for single vision glasses and $350 for bifocals. MCP does not cover eye exams for others.
What to do next
- If you get home support or other community services, ask your financial assessment officer whether you qualify.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
You can likely get help toward a hearing aid.
Why
Yukon seniors on Pharmacare can get up to $600 toward 1 hearing aid, once every 4 years.
What to do next
- Yukon Hearing Services needs no referral. Call 867-667-5913.
- If you are not yet on Pharmacare and Extended Health Benefits, apply. Our prescription drug check explains who qualifies.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
- Does a government plan help pay for my prescriptions?
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
You can likely get help with eye exams and glasses every 2 years.
Why
Yukon seniors in the Pharmacare and Extended Health Benefits program get help every 2 years: up to $124.10 for an eye exam, $100 for frames, and lens amounts from $160 (single vision) to $325 (progressive).
What to do next
- If you are not yet in the program, apply. Our prescription drug check explains who qualifies.
- Ask your optometrist what you will pay above these amounts.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
Your answers
More help
- Does a government plan help pay for my prescriptions?
- Can I claim the medical expense tax credit?
- Read our full guide: Hearing and vision help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Ask the NWT Health Benefits Program.
Why
Our guide does not list the hearing help available to seniors in the Northwest Territories.
What to do next
- Call the Health Benefits Program at 1-800-661-0830, extension 49462, and ask what hearing help is available to you.
- The part you pay yourself for hearing aids, batteries, prescription glasses or contact lenses can count toward the medical expense tax credit.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Likely eligible
Extended Health Benefits likely helps with vision care products.
Why
In the Northwest Territories, Extended Health Benefits covers vision care products for seniors 60 and older, using the federal NIHB vision fee grid.
What to do next
- Ask your optometrist what the program pays and what you will pay.
- Questions: call the Health Benefits Program at 1-800-661-0830, extension 49462.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Are you First Nations, Inuit or Métis?
Nunavut's Extended Health Benefits Seniors' Coverage is for non-Indigenous residents.
Likely eligible
Extended Health Benefits Seniors' Coverage likely helps.
Why
In Nunavut, this program includes vision care services and products, and medically required audiology services and products, for non-Indigenous residents 65 and older.
What to do next
- Ask your community health centre how to use the coverage before you buy glasses or a hearing aid.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
We cannot tell from your answers
Ask which program covers you.
Why
Nunavut's Extended Health Benefits Seniors' Coverage is for non-Indigenous residents 65 and older.
What to do next
- Ask your community health centre which program helps with your eye care or hearing.
- Veterans: Veterans Affairs Canada's treatment benefits can include audiology and vision services. Call 1-866-522-2122 to ask what your health card covers.
Your answers
More help
This check is general information, not legal or financial advice. OAS Guides is not part of, or connected to, the Government of Canada or Service Canada. Only the government office that runs the program can decide whether you qualify, and we cannot promise any result. Figures were last checked on 2026-10-04.
Where these rules come from
- What OHIP covers (Government of Ontario)
- Hearing devices (Assistive Devices Program) (Government of Ontario)
- Hearing aids (Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec)
- Dental and Optical Assistance for Seniors (Government of Alberta)
- AADL benefits covered (Government of Alberta)
- Manitoba Seniors Hearing Aid Program (Government of Manitoba)