OTC Hearing Aid Warranty Guide
Most OTC hearing aids come with a 1-year warranty — but what's actually covered varies widely. Here's what to look for before you buy.
The standard OTC warranty
Most OTC hearing aids come with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This means if your device stops working due to a manufacturing fault — not user damage — the company will repair or replace it at no charge.
Some premium OTC brands (Eargo, Jabra) offer extended support or optional protection plans that go beyond the standard warranty. Budget brands typically offer the minimum.
Typically covered
- Manufacturing defects
- Component failures under normal use
- Charging case defects (rechargeable models)
- Software or firmware issues
Typically NOT covered
- Accidental damage (drops, crushing)
- Water damage beyond the IP rating
- Loss or theft
- Earwax or moisture damage from improper care
- Normal wear and tear (ear tips, domes, wax guards)
- Damage from unauthorized repairs
OTC brand warranty comparison
| Brand | Warranty | Trial period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jabra Enhance | 1 year | 100 days | Covers defects; accidental damage add-on available |
| Sony CRE series | 1 year | 30 days | Standard manufacturer warranty via Sony |
| Eargo | 1 year | 45 days | Lifetime support included; loss & damage plan available |
| Lexie B2 (Bose) | 1 year | 45 days | Subscription model includes replacements |
| Audien | 1 year | 45 days | Basic defect warranty; no accidental damage |
| MDHearing | 1 year | 45 days | Covers manufacturing defects only |
| Lucid Hearing | 1 year | 30 days | Sold through retailers; warranty via Lucid |
Loss and damage protection
Standard warranties don't cover lost or accidentally damaged devices. If you're concerned about this — especially for expensive OTC aids — look for brands that offer optional loss and damage plans, or check whether your homeowner's or renter's insurance covers personal electronics.
Eargo and Jabra both offer optional protection plans that cover accidental damage and loss for an additional annual fee. For devices costing $800+, these plans are often worth considering.
Tips for protecting your warranty
- Register your device immediately after purchase — most warranties require registration
- Keep your original receipt or order confirmation
- Store devices in the provided case when not in use
- Clean devices regularly to prevent wax buildup that voids warranties
- Don't attempt DIY repairs — unauthorized repairs typically void coverage
- Document any issues with photos before contacting support