Can I Qualify for a Free Stair Lift?
Posted on by Eric Rubel
If you or a loved one have been experiencing difficulty going up and down the stairs, but aren’t ready to leave your current home, a stair lift may be the perfect solution for maintaining your safety, independence, and comfort. Stair lift pricing typically begins at around $2,500 but can range up to $20,000 or higher depending on staircase configuration, product model, upgrade options, and other factors.
As you consider your options, you may wonder if you qualify for a free stair lift through Medicare, your health insurance, or other source.
While getting your stair lift for free is unlikely, there are a variety of financial assistance programs and funding options available that can significantly reduce the cost, making this essential home mobility solution more affordable.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the potential avenues for financial support and provide tips on where to look for assistance covering the cost of your stair lift.
Will Medicare or Health Insurance Cover a Stair Lift?
Most people are disappointed to learn that neither Medicare nor private health insurance plans typically provide coverage for stair lifts. While Medicare covers durable medical equipment used within your home (like wheelchairs and hospital beds), it does not cover anything attached to your house. A stair lift is considered a home improvement rather than durable medical equipment. Most private health insurance plans follow Medicare’s guidelines regarding home modifications and therefore also do not cover stair lifts.
Check out these other blog posts to learn more about Medicare and health insurance coverage guidelines when it comes to stair lifts:
Even though direct coverage is rare, it’s still a good idea to contact your insurance provider to understand your policy details. Inquire specifically about coverage for home medical equipment or modifications that improve home accessibility.
Medicaid Waivers for Stair Lifts
Medicaid, a joint federal and state program providing healthcare coverage to low-income individuals and families, offers potential avenues for stair lift funding through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These waivers allow states to provide services beyond traditional Medicaid benefits, often including home modifications that enable individuals to avoid institutional care.
Eligibility for these waivers and the specific services covered vary significantly by state. To explore this option, contact your state’s Medicaid agency and inquire about HCBS waivers that might cover home modifications or assistive technology.
Stair Lift Grants
If you need a stair lift because of an injury you obtained while serving in the U.S. military, you may be eligible for an adaptive housing grant from the US Department of Veterans Affairs to make your home accessible. Two programs are available: the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant, and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grant, each with different qualifications. Learn more about these grants on the VA website.
Local & National Funding Options for Stair Lifts
Beyond federal programs, several local and national organizations and initiatives may offer financial assistance for home modifications like stair lifts.
Some states or municipalities may have specific grants or loan programs aimed at promoting accessibility for residents. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or your state’s assistive technology program to learn about potential opportunities in your area.
You might also find support through a non-profit organization focused on supporting seniors or individuals with disabilities, such as the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the ALS Association. Research organizations related to your specific mobility challenges, and inquire about possible grants or financial aid programs that can be used for home modifications.
Are you a member of a service club such as Rotary Club, Lions Club, or Kiwanis International? These and other local charities sometimes undertake projects to support community members in need. Reach out to the local chapter in your area to inquire about potential assistance.
Access additional national & local funding options
Is a Stair Lift Tax-Deductible?
Stair lifts can be tax-deductible with a prescription from your doctor! Unlike home elevators, stair lifts are generally not considered an improvement that increases the value of your property, so you can typically include the entire expense as part of your itemized medical deductions.
(Keep in mind, however, that the IRS only allows you to deduct medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. Depending on your income, this might be a high threshold to meet, so you may not benefit from a tax deduction unless you have a lot of other unreimbursed medical expenses during the same tax year.)
Other Affordable Stairlift Options
If you’re not able to get obtain funding for your stair lift from the sources outlined above, you still have options! Lifeway Mobility offers several affordable ways to get the stair lift you need, including monthly financing payment plans, used stair lifts, and rental stair lifts.
- Financing: Financing allows you to get your stair lift without paying the entire cost upfront. Monthly payment plans are available for qualified buyers, starting as low as $106.99/month through Affirm.
- Used Stair Lifts: Boost your purchasing power by considering a used stair lift. Lifeway Mobility offers certified pre-owned straight stair lifts in great condition. You’ll get the same professional installation by our factory-trained technicians, plus warranty coverage on parts, components, and labor.
- Rental Stair Lifts: For short-term needs, consider a rental stair lift. This is a perfect option for those recovering from an injury or surgery, or those in a temporary living situation. Lifeway Mobility offers the rental of certified pre-owned straight stair lifts or modular curved stair lift (in select locations), with a 2-month rental minimum and no maximum period. This includes professional installation by our trained & certified technicians as well as removal of the unit when you no longer need it. All service and maintenance costs are included for the first 12 months. Plus, our rent-to-own option lets you simply purchase the stair lift at any point.
Final Thoughts
While the prospect of a completely free stair lift might be slim, numerous avenues exist to help finance this important home modification. The key is to be proactive, research the available resources, and don’t hesitate to reach out. Taking the time to investigate these options now can help you stay safer and more comfortable in the home you love for years to come.
