Abstract: Disclosed herein, among other things, are systems and methods for in-the-ear retention for hearing assistance devices. One aspect of the present subject matter includes a hearing assistance device configured to compensate for hearing losses of a user. The hearing assistance device includes an in-the-ear portion configured to be worn in an ear of a wearer, and an adjustable detachable rigid arm configured to connect to the in-the-ear portion. According to various embodiments, the arm is configured to provide a retention fit for the in-the-ear portion using bends in an ear canal of the ear.