Funding & Insurance for Mobility Equipment

Paying for Mobility Equipment

Mobility equipment can be expensive. A quality rollator costs $100 to $300, a mobility scooter runs $800 to $3,000, and a power wheelchair can exceed $10,000. But most people do not need to pay full price out of pocket. Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits, state programs, nonprofits, and financing options can significantly reduce or even eliminate your costs. The challenge is knowing which programs you qualify for and how to navigate the application process.

Our funding guides break down each option in plain language, with step-by-step instructions, eligibility requirements, and tips for getting your claims approved on the first try.

Medicare Part B Coverage

Medicare Part B covers mobility equipment classified as durable medical equipment (DME) when it is medically necessary for use in your home. Covered items include walkers, rollators, manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, mobility scooters (in limited circumstances), and seat cushions. Medicare typically pays 80 percent of the approved amount after you meet your annual Part B deductible.

To qualify, you need a face-to-face examination with your physician, who must document that you have a mobility limitation that significantly impairs your ability to perform daily activities in your home. Your doctor must then write a prescription specifying the type of equipment needed. You must obtain the equipment from a Medicare-approved DME supplier. The process can take several weeks, so plan ahead if possible.

Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans must cover everything original Medicare covers, but many plans offer additional DME benefits beyond the standard coverage. Some plans have lower copays for mobility equipment, cover additional accessories, or include supplemental benefits like home modifications, transportation to medical appointments, or home safety evaluations. Check your specific plan's evidence of coverage document or call the plan directly to understand what additional benefits may be available to you.

Medicaid HCBS Waivers

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers help people who would otherwise need institutional care (like a nursing home) remain in their communities. Many state HCBS waiver programs cover mobility equipment, home modifications, personal care assistance, and adaptive devices. Eligibility requirements, covered items, and waiting lists vary significantly by state. Some states have waitlists of months or even years, so apply early if you think you may qualify.

VA Programs for Veterans

Veterans with service-connected disabilities or who meet certain income thresholds have access to some of the most comprehensive mobility equipment benefits available. The VA provides wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, and other assistive devices through VA medical centers. Two additional grant programs help with home modifications:

The Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant provides up to $109,986 (2024 amount, adjusted annually) for building or modifying a home to accommodate a service-connected disability. The Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant provides up to $6,800 for veterans with service-connected disabilities (or $2,000 for non-service-connected disabilities) for home modifications like ramps, bathroom accessibility, and door widening.

State Assistive Technology Programs

Every state has an Assistive Technology Act program that provides equipment demonstrations, short-term loans, and device exchange or recycling programs. Many states also offer low-interest loan programs specifically for assistive technology purchases, allowing you to finance equipment at below-market rates. The Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (AT3 Center) maintains a directory of state programs.

Nonprofit and Charitable Resources

Several national nonprofits provide free or low-cost mobility equipment to people who cannot afford it or whose insurance does not cover their needs. Organizations like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, ALS Association, United Cerebral Palsy, and various local charitable organizations offer equipment loan programs, grants, or refurbished devices. Many communities also have medical equipment lending closets operated by local nonprofits, churches, or Area Agencies on Aging.

Financing Options

When insurance and grants do not cover the full cost, financing can make equipment more affordable. Options include healthcare-specific credit lines (like CareCredit), manufacturer payment plans, DME supplier financing, and personal installment loans. Some suppliers offer rent-to-own programs. Before financing, always compare the total cost including interest with paying cash or exploring additional assistance programs. Zero-interest promotional periods can be a good option if you can pay off the balance before the promotional period ends.

Explore our detailed funding guides below for step-by-step instructions on each program, eligibility checklists, and tips for maximizing your benefits.

Find Resources by State

Every state, plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, runs its own Medicaid programs, assistive technology services, and nonprofit resources for mobility equipment. Select yours below for a detailed guide to the programs and funding sources available where you live.