How to Get Help Paying for a Wheelchair

If you need a wheelchair to help you get around, having the proper chair can make all the difference in your ability to function independently, go to work and otherwise live a fulfilling life. Unfortunately, wheelchairs can be quite costly, especially if you require a motorized chair or a chair with special features. Talk with your doctor or physical therapist about the type of wheelchair you need. You'll need a letter of medical necessity in order to receive assistance paying for a wheelchair from most sources of assistance. The letter should specify if you need a motorized chair or any special features.

Step One

Check with your health insurance company, if you have health insurance, to find out if they will pay for any portion of a wheelchair. Many health insurance policies do cover part of the cost, but the amount you must cover yourself may still be considerable.

Step Two

Rent or purchase a wheelchair from a Medicare approved supplier if you have Medicare coverage. Contact Medicare at 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) for a list of approved suppliers in your area. Medicare covers 80 percent of the cost of a wheelchair (the percentage covered in 2011). If you are at least 65 years old and do not have Medicare, call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 to find out if you qualify.

Step Three

Contact the agency that administers Medicaid in your state if you have Medicaid coverage. Coverage varies from state to state but Medicaid will usually cover a wheelchair if medically necessary. If you don't currently have Medicaid coverage but have difficulty paying for medical care, check with the agency that administers Medicaid in your state to find out if you might qualify for coverage. Eligibility criteria vary from state to state.

Step Four

Contact foundations that offer grants for people with disabilities or special medical needs. Numerous foundations offer grants that you can use to pay for a wheelchair, including the United Healthcare Children's Foundation and the Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund.

Step Five

Contact the vocational rehabilitation agency in your state http://www.parac.org/svrp.html if you need a wheelchair in order to work. The agency may help pay for a wheelchair for you.

Step Six

Talk to a social worker at a hospital or clinic where you've received medical care and ask if she can direct you to other sources of help paying for a wheelchair, based on your particular needs.

Sources:

Wheelchairnet.org. http://www.wheelchairnet.org/wcn_prodserv/Funding/funding.html. Funding for Wheelchairs.

Medicare.gov. http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/10050.pdf. Medicare and You. 2011

United Healthcare Children's Fund. http://www.uhccf.org/faqs_applicant.html. FAQs - Potential Grant Applicants.

Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund. http://www.dolanfund.org/programs.cfm. Programs.