Stair lifts and wheelchair ramps are critical for older individuals, people with mobility issues, and those dealing with injuries or recovery. At Williams Lift Company, we provide and install these devices near you in New Jersey. If you need one of these items but are worried about the cost, we’re here to explore your options. Learn more about paying for lifts and ramps, including whether insurance or Medicare can help cover the cost.
Where to Get Funding for Stairlifts and Wheelchair Ramps
Mobility devices and equipment are essential, but not everyone can afford an in-home stairlift or wheelchair ramp on their own. People may worry about how to pay for these items out of pocket and wonder if insurance can help cover the costs. This is why some of the most common questions we get involve how to get help with the cost, including those below:
Will Medicare Cover a Stair Lift or Wheelchair Ramp?
While Medicare is a comprehensive service, original Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) typically doesn’t provide coverage for stair lifts or wheelchair ramps. This is because, according to Medicare, these units are considered home modifications rather than durable medical equipment (DME). However, those who have a Medicare Advantage plan may receive additional coverage options, which are determined by the private insurer offering the plan.
Does Medicaid Pay for Stair Lifts or Wheelchair Ramps?
Unlike Medicare, Medicaid is much more likely to offer financial assistance for these in-home medical accessories. Coverage will depend on the state in which you live, and, based on the specifics of your situation, Medicaid may cover the full cost or provide partial coverage.
In most cases, you will need to provide proof that the lift or ramp is medically necessary for you to live at home safely, which will need to be obtained from a medical professional. You can fill out an application form to see if you qualify.
What About Insurance?
If you have private health insurance, there is a possibility that it may cover some of the cost for a lift or ramp. However, like Medicare, insurers tend not to classify these items as medical necessities. That said, it certainly doesn’t hurt to ask, as your coverage benefits depend on your insurance company and your chosen plan. You may even find that some related costs, such as assessments from physicians and the installation of other mobility devices, are covered, so asking a representative is always a good idea.
Those with long-term care insurance policies may be surprised to discover that they may receive benefits to cover home modifications deemed medically necessary. Examples of items that may be covered include ramps, lifts, grab bars, walk-in showers, and more. You may even find that your policy will cover the full cost, potentially saving you thousands of dollars.
Will the VA Pay for Stairlifts, Ramps, and Lift Chairs for Veterans?
Those who have served in the military should first look to Veterans Affairs (VA) before looking at other financial assistance options. This organization offers a variety of funding options, helping to make your equipment more affordable. A member of your local VA office can come out to your home to assess your situation to help determine whether you qualify for funding.
In many cases, if you need a stair lift or wheelchair ramp due to an injury you sustained because of your service, the VA may cover the full cost. If your disability or mobility issues are due to other factors, however, it’s still worth looking into, as the organization may have specialized funding solutions that you qualify for. These include the Veteran’s Administration Aid and Attendance Benefit and/or the state program called Veterans Directed Home and Community Based Services.
Other Options
There are several different charitable organizations you can look to if you want additional financial assistance for these important supplies. Organizations like the AccessABLE Experiences and Rebuilding Together are committed to helping those with disabilities and other mobility needs. You may even be able to get the full cost of your item covered by one of these organizations, so it’s a good idea to reach out and see if you are eligible.
If you still need help with the cost, consider reaching out to your local Office of Aging. Each county has its own office, allowing you to get in touch with someone nearby to help you understand your options. There are also various charities and nonprofit organizations that may be able to help, so you should do your research and find any local ones that fit your needs.
Find Stair Lifts and Wheelchair Ramps Near You in New Jersey
At Williams Lift Company, we know that there are lots of reasons one might need at-home equipment like wheelchair ramps and stair lifts. Because of this, we want our customers in New Jersey to be able to get high-quality products and dependable installation without leaving them in a tough spot financially. Contact us today if you have questions about paying for lifts and ramps, or request an estimate to see what the potential cost might be.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paying for Lifts and Ramps
What if I only need a lift or ramp for a short period?
Not everyone who needs a wheelchair ramp or stair lift installed in their home needs one for long-term use. In fact, there are plenty of reasons one might need one of these units for a limited time, such as:
- When they have elderly or disabled houseguests staying with them
- When they have suffered an injury that makes movement difficult
- When they are recovering after a surgical procedure
At Williams Lift Company, we’re happy to offer rental stair lifts and rental wheelchair ramps, allowing our customers to navigate their living spaces safely without needing to purchase a unit outright.
Can I buy a used stair lift?
For those looking to get high-quality equipment at an affordable price, Williams Lift Company can help by offering used stair lifts. These lifts are typically the same trusted brands we carry, including Bruno and Brooks by Acorn, but they have been bought back by our company. When we buy back these stair lifts, our professionals thoroughly inspect them, test them, and refurbish them to make sure they meet our lofty safety standards before we install them in your home. These used stair lifts are a cost-effective option for those who don’t want to pay the price for a brand-new model.
What medical equipment does original Medicare cover?
Medicare provides financial assistance for certain mobility aids, which are considered part of the DME benefits. These supplies would have to be considered medically necessary by your doctor. These may include wheelchairs, power scooters, walkers, rollators, and canes. Patient lifts, which are used for things like transferring someone from a bed to a chair, may also be covered under original Medicare plans. To receive the proper benefits, you’ll need to speak with a representative from Medicare and ensure that the supplier you’re getting them from is approved.