Who qualifies for PRSI Treatment Benefit?

Qualification depends on your PRSI contribution record under Department of Social Protection rules. Bring your PPS number and we check on the day.

How often can I claim PRSI for aids?

Once every four years for the hearing-aid grant amounts above.

Do you take PRSI off at the till?

Yes, when eligibility is confirmed. Bring your PPS number.

No. You claim through Revenue if your expenses qualify. Keep receipts. Ask Revenue or an accountant for your case.

Does a medical card cover a HearMed test?

The HearMed private test is free anyway and does not need a GP referral. HSE medical-card audiology is a separate public pathway that usually needs GP referral and a waitlist.

Can dependent spouses qualify for PRSI?

Scheme rules can include dependents in some cases. We check against current Treatment Benefit rules when you visit; bring PPS details for anyone claiming.

Call 0818 058 058

PRSI grants, tax relief and medical cards for hearing care

Three money paths often get mixed up: the PRSI Treatment Benefit grant at the till, Revenue Med 1 tax relief at year end, and the HSE medical-card audiology pathway. They are different. This page sets out what each means at HearMed, and what we can and cannot do for you.

Bring your PPS number to clinic if you think you qualify for PRSI. We check eligibility and take the grant off on the day when the scheme applies.

Reviewed by Rose Multaney and Rauri Keogh, HearMed audiologists · Updated 7 September 2026

Hands exchanging paperwork across a desk — Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

PRSI Treatment Benefit for hearing aids

If you have enough PRSI contributions, the Treatment Benefit scheme can give up to €500 per ear, €1,000 for both ears, once every four years. At HearMed the grant comes off at the till. You do not pay the full amount and reclaim later.

Hearing aids start from fully covered basic PRSI models when you qualify. Advanced models start from €350 per aid after the grant (€850 before the grant). We confirm the figure in writing after your free hearing test.

How the till step works

Book a free hearing test (about 45 to 60 minutes, age 12+, no private referral needed). Bring your PPS number. If aids are recommended and you qualify, we apply the grant at sale. Keep your paperwork and receipts for your own records and for any later Revenue claim.

Book a free hearing test
Bring your PPS number
Grant applied at sale when you qualify
Keep receipts for your records and Med 1

Tax relief (Med 1) at 20%

Where you still pay towards hearing aids or related care after any grant or insurance, you may be able to claim medical expense relief from Revenue at the standard 20% rate under Med 1 rules. Relief is personal and depends on your tax position. HearMed can supply itemised receipts. For whether you qualify and how to file, speak to Revenue or your accountant. Do not treat this page as tax advice.

Medical card and the HSE pathway

A medical card does not turn a HearMed private test into an HSE appointment. Public HSE audiology for medical-card holders usually needs a GP referral and often involves a waitlist. HearMed's private hearing test does not need that referral and is free. Some people use HearMed for a faster private answer while they stay on, or decide about, a public pathway. Ask us if you are unsure which route fits your situation.

After purchase

Qualifying aids include a four-year warranty, 60-day money-back if the fit is wrong, and free batteries for life on paid aids.

Clinics

Full-time: Tullamore (057 934 9388), Portlaoise (057 863 8181), Portumna (090 970 2984). Set days: Newbridge (Tue), Templemore (first Wed of month), Athenry (every second Wed, O'Flaherty's Pharmacy only). National: 0818 058 058. Email: getintouch@hearmed.ie.

Questions people actually ask

Tullamore, Portlaoise and Portumna

Book a free hearing test

Call the local number, send a WhatsApp, or leave your number. No referral.

0818 058 058