Quick answer
Usually, yes, when a doctor says you need one. Wheelchairs count as durable medical equipment, which health plans cover as rehabilitative and habilitative devices, one of the ACA’s essential health benefits. Expect to need a doctor’s order, sometimes prior approval, and a supplier your plan works with. Medicare Part B covers manual and power wheelchairs and scooters when they’re medically necessary; you pay 20% after the deductible.
Key takeaways
- Health plans generally cover a wheelchair as durable medical equipment when it’s medically necessary.
- You’ll usually need a written order from your doctor, and power wheelchairs often need prior approval.
- Use a supplier your plan approves, or you may pay much more or all of it.
- Your deductible and coinsurance apply. Some equipment is rented and some is bought.
- Medicaid also covers medically necessary wheelchairs, and HSA or FSA money can help with costs.
On this page
What plans usually cover
| Equipment | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Manual wheelchair | Usually covered with a doctor’s order |
| Power wheelchair or scooter | Covered when a manual chair won’t meet your needs; often needs prior approval and more documentation |
| Custom seating or features | May need extra records showing medical need |
| Upgrades you choose | You may pay the difference |
If you need a wheelchair for a short time, like after surgery or a hospital stay, your plan may rent one instead of buying it.
How to get a wheelchair covered
- See your doctor. Ask for a written order that explains your condition and why you need the wheelchair.
- Check your plan’s rules. Ask whether it rents or buys, which types it covers, and whether you need prior approval.
- Pick an approved supplier. Medical supply companies are in or out of network, like doctors.
- Let the supplier request approval. Suppliers often send the paperwork to your insurer.
- Appeal if you’re denied. Add notes from your doctor or a physical or occupational therapist.
What you’ll pay
Wheelchairs usually count toward your deductible. Until you meet it, you may pay the plan’s full negotiated price. After that, you pay coinsurance. For example, if your plan approves $2,000 for a chair and you’ve met your deductible, 20% coinsurance means you’d pay $400.
Wheelchairs are qualified medical expenses, so you can use HSA or FSA money. If you’re paying cash, ask suppliers about used or refurbished chairs, and look for local loan programs; see what if you can afford your medical bills out of pocket.
Medicare
Medicare Part B covers manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs and scooters as durable medical equipment when your doctor prescribes them for use in your home. For a power wheelchair or scooter, you need a face-to-face exam and a written order from your provider, and some power wheelchairs need prior authorization.
After the Part B deductible ($283 in 2026), you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount if your supplier accepts assignment. Medicare only pays suppliers that are enrolled in Medicare. Depending on the equipment, you may rent it, buy it, or own it after a set number of rental payments.
If you don’t have coverage
All ACA plans cover durable medical equipment. You can buy one during the open enrollment period or after a qualifying life event, through the Marketplace or outside the exchanges. If your job offers coverage, compare it too; see is it cheaper to get health insurance through your employer. With a low income, check Medicaid, which you can apply for any time.
Choosing a plan
If you use a wheelchair or other equipment, compare how plans handle durable medical equipment: coinsurance, supplier networks and prior approval. See types of health insurance coverage, how to decide what level of coverage you need and the best health insurance companies.
Compare plans in your area: see quotes by ZIP code.
Frequently asked questions
Will insurance pay for a power wheelchair?
Often, if your doctor documents that a manual wheelchair won’t meet your needs. Expect prior approval and more paperwork.
Do I need a prescription for a wheelchair?
Usually, yes. Plans and Medicare want a written order from your doctor explaining the medical need.
Can I rent a wheelchair through insurance?
Yes. Many plans rent wheelchairs for short-term needs.
Does Medicare cover wheelchairs?
Yes. Part B covers them as durable medical equipment when they’re medically necessary for use in your home.
Sources
This article is general information, not medical advice. Last reviewed September 2026.