Unfortunately for seniors, Original Medicare generally does not pay for a walk-in tub. Medicare Part B covers certain medically necessary durable medical equipment (DME), but the equipment must meet specific coverage requirements. Walk-in tubs are generally considered a home modification rather than covered DME, so Medicare typically does not cover the purchase or installation of a walk-in tub.

 

The good news is that other programs and financing options may help make a walk-in tub more affordable. Depending on your location, eligibility and individual circumstances, you may qualify for assistance through Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, veterans benefits or certain government programs.

Medicare Advantage (MA) Plans

 

While Original Medicare generally does not cover walk-in tubs, some Medicare Advantage (MA) plans offer supplemental benefits that may help pay for certain home modifications or bathroom safety improvements.

 

Benefits vary by plan, eligibility and location, so there is no guarantee that a Medicare Advantage plan will cover a walk-in tub. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, contact your plan directly to ask whether it offers benefits that could help with a walk-in tub or related home modification.

Medicaid for Walk-In Tubs

 

Medicaid programs are administered by individual states, so coverage and eligibility requirements vary. Depending on your state and Medicaid program, you may qualify for assistance with certain home modifications that help you remain safe in your home.

 

If you're considering a walk-in tub, contact your state Medicaid agency or Medicaid plan to ask whether your benefits include home modifications or bathroom safety improvements.

 

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)

 

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) programs can provide services and support that help eligible individuals live in their homes or communities instead of receiving care in an institutional setting.

 

Depending on the program and state, an HCBS program may cover certain home modifications or other services designed to help people remain safe in their homes. Eligibility covered services and funding limits vary, so contact your state Medicaid agency to find out whether your program offers assistance for bathroom modifications.

Veterans may have additional options for assistance with home modifications. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several programs that may help eligible veterans make modifications to their homes based on qualifying disabilities and other requirements.

 

Home Modification Grants

 

The VA offers two major housing grants for eligible veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities:

 

• Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant

• Special Home Adaptation (SHA) Grant

   

Requirements are specific to each program and can change based on the veteran's circumstances. If you're a veteran considering a walk-in tub or other bathroom modification, review the current VA eligibility requirements before applying.

 

Veterans Directed Care

 

Veteran-Directed Care gives eligible veterans more flexibility in choosing and managing certain long-term care services and support. Depending on the program and the veteran's individual care plan, funds may be available for certain home-based services, equipment or modifications.

 

Contact the VA to determine whether your specific benefits and care plan may help with a walk-in tub or other bathroom modification.

 

VA Aid and Attendance and Other Pension Benefits

 

Veterans and survivors who receive certain VA pension benefits may qualify for additional payments through programs such as Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits. These programs can provide additional financial support to eligible individuals who need help with daily activities or are substantially confined to their home.

 

Eligibility and benefit amounts depend on individual circumstances. Because these benefits are not specifically designed to reimburse walk-in tub purchases, contact the VA or an accredited veteran service representative to determine whether your circumstances qualify and how the benefits may be used.

If you don't qualify for financial assistance or need another way to pay for your walk-in bath, financing may be an option. With Reveal by KOHLER bath remodeling, we offer financing plans for KOHLER_® walk-in baths, along with monthly offers that may help make your purchase more affordable.

 

Plus, we promise to provide your exact cost during your consultation, so there are no surprise fees or hidden installation costs. Contact your local Reveal by KOHLER Authorized Dealer to schedule a free in-home quote and learn more about your options.

While Original Medicare generally does not cover a walk-in tub, you may have other options to help with the cost. Check with your Medicare Advantage plan, state Medicaid program, VA benefits administrator or USDA Rural Development office to determine whether you may qualify for assistance.

 

You can also contact your local Reveal by KOHLER Authorized Dealer at (800) 384-3160 to learn more about KOHLER walk-in baths, financing options and available offers.