A stair lift can make the difference between staying in your home and having to leave it, so it is natural to ask whether Medicare will help pay for one. The short answer is that Original Medicare does not, but other programs may.
Why Original Medicare does not cover stair lifts
Medicare Part B helps pay for durable medical equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs. Stair lifts are not on that list. Medicare treats a stair lift as a home modification, because it is attached to the house, and home modifications are not covered. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans do not cover stair lifts either, because they only help with costs that Original Medicare already covers.
Programs that may help
- Medicare Advantage. Some Medicare Advantage plans include extra benefits for home safety. Coverage varies widely from plan to plan, so call your plan and ask directly.
- Medicaid. For people who qualify, Medicaid home and community-based services waivers may pay for medically necessary home modifications. Contact your local Medicaid office to ask what applies to you.
- Veterans benefits. Eligible veterans may be able to get help with home modifications through the VA. Ask your VA care team.
- Long-term care insurance. Some policies cover home modifications that help you stay at home.
- Tax deductions. A stair lift installed for a medical reason may count as a medical expense. A tax professional can tell you whether it applies in your situation.
Other ways to make a stair lift affordable
If none of these programs apply, ask about financing and about the differences between models. A straight stair lift for a single flight is usually the most affordable option, and it can often be installed in a few hours.
We can help you sort it out
Nationwide Lifts of Central New York installs stair lifts in Syracuse, Rochester, Utica and Binghamton. We can give you a written quote to share with your insurance plan or benefits office. Call (315) 849-2952 for a free consultation.
This article is general information, not insurance or tax advice. Coverage rules change, so confirm the details with your plan or a qualified advisor.