Will Medicare Pay for a Lift Chair?
If standing up from a chair has become difficult due to arthritis, muscle weakness, or mobility issues, a lift chair could make a big difference in your daily life. These chairs gently lift you to a standing position, helping you stay independent and safe at home.
But will Medicare help pay for one? Yes—but only part of it. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you know what to expect.
What Part of a Lift Chair Does Medicare Cover?
Medicare does NOT pay for the entire chair. Instead, it only covers the motorized lifting device inside the chair that helps you stand up.
❌ What’s NOT covered:
- The chair itself (frame, fabric, cushions, and padding)
- Accessories like heat, massage, or extra foam padding
✅ What IS covered:
- The lifting mechanism (the part that raises and lowers the seat)
This means Medicare helps pay for the motorized part of the chair but you’ll still have out-of-pocket costs for the rest.
Does Medicare Advantage Cover Lift Chairs?
If you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, you may have extra coverage for lift chairs.
➡️ Medicare Advantage plans cover at least what Original Medicare covers—so the lifting device will still be included.
➡️ Some plans may cover more of the chair’s cost or reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
➡️ Rules can vary by plan, so check with your Medicare Advantage provider to see what’s covered.
How Do You Qualify for Medicare to Cover a Lift Chair?
To get Medicare to help pay for a lift chair, you must:
✔️ Get a doctor’s prescription stating the chair is medically necessary
✔️ Complete a Medicare form (your doctor will help with this paperwork)
✔️ Have a qualifying medical condition, such as:
- Severe arthritis in your hips or knees
- A neuromuscular disease that makes it difficult to stand
✔️ Be unable to stand from a regular chair on your own
✔️ Be able to walk once standing (with or without a walker/cane)
✔️ Not live in a nursing home, skilled care facility, or hospice
If you meet all these conditions, Medicare will help cover the lifting device inside the chair.
How Much Does a Lift Chair Cost with Medicare?
💰 Medicare covers: 80% of the lifting device (after you meet your Part B deductible)
💰 You pay:
- Your Part B deductible (if not met for the year)
- 20% of the cost of the lifting device
- The full cost of the chair itself
If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it may help cover the remaining 20% of the lifting mechanism’s cost.
📌 Tip: Prices for lift chairs vary depending on the model and features. Always check with your Medicare-approved supplier for exact costs.
How to Get a Lift Chair Through Medicare
If you think you qualify, follow these steps:
🩺 1. Talk to Your Doctor – They’ll evaluate your condition and write a prescription if you qualify.
📑 2. Complete the Medicare Form – You and your doctor will fill out Medicare Form CMS-849 (Certificate of Medical Necessity for Seat Lift Mechanisms).
🏢 3. Find a Medicare-Approved Supplier – ONLY buy from a supplier that accepts Medicare! Otherwise, Medicare won’t pay anything.
💲 4. Understand Your Costs – Be ready to pay for the chair itself and any remaining costs of the lifting device.
📞 5. Check Your Coverage – If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, call your provider to see if you have additional coverage.
The Bottom Line
✅ Medicare will help pay for the lift mechanism inside a lift chair—but NOT the full chair.
✅ You must meet certain medical requirements and get a doctor’s prescription.
✅ Medicare Advantage plans may cover more, so check with your provider.
At Just Us Retirement, we are passionate about helping families navigate Medicare, long-term care planning, and everything in between. We offer regular workshops, seminars, and blogs on topics just like this. Stay informed and connected by:
- Following us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justusretirement
- Joining our private Facebook group for Medicare Q&A: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wvmedicarequestions
- Signing up for our newsletter with helpful retirement advice: https://justus.helpdeskinsuranceservices.com/sign-up-page
You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’re here to help!