Although it is something many of us take for granted, the ability to hear is a key to unlocking the universe around us. From the chirping birds to the opening notes of our favorite songs, sound is a way we can tap into the beauty of the world around us. Hearing is also an integral part of communication and connection with the people with love. For many of us, as we start to age, our ability to hear may start to decline. While we are lucky enough to live in a time when hearing aids and other accessibility devices are on the market, these devices can cost quite a pretty penny. However, here in the Garden State, the Hearing Aid Assistance for the Aged and Disabled program (HAAAD) is here to help our community’s residents get the care and equipment they need.
Thanks to the New Jersey Department of Human Services, aged and disabled New Jerseyans now have the ability to access up to $500 in hearing aid assistance. In order to qualify for this program, applicants must be:
- A New Jersey Resident
- Aged 65+ and/or are 18-64 and are receiving Social Security
- Meet the income guidelines
If you are already enrolled in the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD) or Lifeline Utility Assistance programs, you are already eligible. Please do be aware, however, that beneficiaries of the Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program are not eligible for HAAAD at this time. For 2024, the income limits are no greater than $52,142, if single, or no greater than $59,209, if married. Recipients of this program are entitled to one $500 reimbursement per calendar year. For additional information and for further details on how you can enroll, please contact call the toll free Hotline at 1-800-792-9745.
In addition to hearing aid assistance, New Jersey’s Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing are also offering up a number of other services in order to better meet the needs of New Jersey’s diverse hard of hearing community. From language instruction services for children to American Sign Language interpreter services and more, this division places an integral role in developing and distributing these much-needed resources.
For more information on this and other services available to New Jersey’s deaf and hard of hearing residents, please visit the DHS website, linked here: DDHH – Home. Help is near to help you hear, so be sure to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.
