Top Places to Sell Used Hearing Aids for Cash

The Best Places to Sell Used Hearing Aids

Hearing aids can be quite expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. When it comes time to upgrade your devices or if you no longer need your current hearing aids, you may be wondering where can I sell my used hearing aids to get some money back?

There are several options for safely and profitably selling your used hearing devices. Read on for the top places to get cash for your hearing aids.

Sell to Hearing Aid Buyback Companies

Many companies now specialize in buying back used hearing aids. The leading hearing aid buyback companies include:

• NewLife Hearing - NewLife buys all tech levels and brands of hearing aids. Their hassle-free process includes free insured shipping, quick payments, and great prices with quotes usually within 24 hours.
• Ecopoint Hearing Aid Recycling - This recycling program from HearingPlanet provides competitive buyback quotes and free shipping materials to send in your devices. You'll get a check within 2 weeks.
• Hear Again Hearing Aid Recycling - Hear Again accepts trade-ins on most brands and styles of hearing aids less than 5 years old. Their buyback program funds hearing health charity projects.

Reputable buyback companies should clearly explain their quote/payment process, offer insured shipping methods, pay within a few weeks, and provide positive customer service experiences.

Trade In at Retail Hearing Aid Centers

Many retail hearing aid centers run their own trade-in or upgrade programs. Stores like Miracle-Ear, Beltone, and HearUSA may accept old hearing aids and put the trade-in value towards new devices.

Benefits of retail trade-in programs include convenience and bigger discounts on replacement hearing aids. However, their trade offers may be lower than dedicated buyback companies. Call your local stores to ask if they buy used hearing aids and compare quotes.

Sell Directly to Other Buyers

You can also sell used hearing aids through online marketplaces that connect individual buyers and sellers. Popular options include:

• eBay - eBay has a large community of hearing aid buyers. You list your make/model for sale through competitive bidding.
• Audiolist - Audiolist facilitates private party sales of new/used hearing aids. Create a listing for a small fee and keep 100% of proceeds.
• Craigslist - The "electronics" and "health & beauty" categories of Craigslist often have buyers looking for low cost hearing devices.
• Facebook Marketplace - Facebook now allows selling medical devices. Target local buyers interested in affordable hearing aids.

Selling directly to other individuals allows you to set your price and often earn slightly more per device. However, there are more risks with shipping, payment collection, and vetting buyers.

How to Get the Most Money When Selling Hearing Aids

Follow this checklist to maximize your profit when selling used hearing aids:

1. Research current resale prices - Compare quotes from buyback companies and prices of similar sold listings on eBay or Audiolist to set a competitive asking price.
2. Gather key device details - Note the manufacturer/model name, year purchased, tech level, condition, original accessories, prescription info, etc to provide to prospective buyers.
3. Clean and test devices - Use manufacturer cleaning tools, sanitize with alcohol wipes, check battery contacts, and test all programs/settings to demonstrate functionality.
4. Take clear photos - For online sales, take high quality pictures of the hearing aids and include close ups of model numbers etched on the case.
5. Obtain a sales receipt - If selling locally via Craigslist or Facebook, use a bill of sale listing the hearing devices' details in case issues arise later.
6. Ship securely - For mail-in buyback programs or eBay sales, pack devices very carefully to avoid damage and purchase tracking and insurance.

Getting some monetary return for your old hearing aids can offset the costs of upgrading to new devices. So explore all your options - from buyback companies to online marketplaces - to maximize your profit.

Steps for Safely Selling Used Hearing Aids

When selling pre-owned hearing aids to another person, it is essential to take safety precautions including:

1. Factory reset devices - Perform a complete reset on settings and clear out prescription info stored on chips.
2. Sanitize properly - Use isopropyl alcohol wipes and disinfectant spray to fully sanitize the hearing aids.
3. Remove batteries during shipping - Prevent battery corrosion and device activation; secure batteries separately.
4. Include new earmold tips - Provide new silicone tips rather than reusing someone's old custom eartips.
5. Be transparent in your listing - Note precise model, age, condition, original box/manuals, upgrades available.
6. Rate the buyer after sale - When selling via auction sites, leave feedback rating the buyer's prompt payment, communication, etc.

Protecting personal health information along with both the buyer and seller's best interests are paramount when reselling hearing devices second-hand rather than allowing them to go to waste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Hearing Aids

Are used hearing aids worth anything?

Yes, used hearing aids can still have significant resale value because the internal technology maintains functionality for years as long as the devices are well-cared for. Newer, higher-grade models in good condition generally sell for more. Buyback companies and second-hand buyers are often willing to pay fair prices for certain brands and models of pre-owned hearing aids based on scarcity and demand.

Can you sell hearing aids online?

It is absolutely legal to sell used hearing aids online through sites like eBay, Audiolist, and even Facebook Marketplace. These sites make it convenient to connect with buyers interested in quality second-hand hearing devices available at discounted prices compared to buying them new through a clinic. Just follow some best practices around sanitization and privacy protection.

Where can I donate used hearing aids?

Some options if you wish to donate your used hearing devices rather than sell them include the Hearing Aid Project, Lions Clubs International, Starkey Hearing Foundation, and Donate Hearing Aids. Charitable groups distribute cleaned and refurbished donated hearing aids to those in financial need all around the world.

Can you return hearing aids to Costco?

Costco has one of the best return policies around, but it does not apply to hearing aids. However, you can sell back Costco Kirkland Signature hearing aids to the HearingLife buyback program within 1 year. Outside of that, your options are selling the used Costco-sourced hearing aids via online marketplaces or hearing aid recycling programs instead.

So in summary, selling quality used hearing aids no longer needed can help offset costs of upgrading or provide some extra income. Evaluate multiple options from buyback programs to online sales to donateto find the best avenue for your specific devices and situation. Just remember to always make safety and sanitization a priority during any transfer of pre-owned hearing aids.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.