Medicare covers lift chairs only when a doctor prescribes them as medical equipment

Medicare Part B covers a lift chair — also called a power lift recliner — but only if your doctor writes an order saying you need it for a medical reason. The chair must be prescribed as Durable Medical Equipment (DME), not bought as a regular piece of furniture. Medicare will pay 80% of the approved amount after you meet your Part B deductible. You pay the remaining 20%, plus any difference between what Medicare approves and what the chair actually costs.

The key difference is why you need it. If a lift chair would straightforward make life more comfortable, Medicare does not cover it. If your doctor documents that you cannot safely stand up from a regular chair because of arthritis, a recent surgery, heart disease, or another medical condition, then it becomes equipment that helps treat your condition — and that is what Medicare will pay for.

Key Takeaways

  • Your doctor must write a prescription for a lift chair as medical equipment, not just suggest you might benefit from one.
  • Medicare covers 80% of the approved cost after your Part B deductible, and you pay 20% plus any amount above Medicare's approved price.
  • The chair must come from a Medicare-approved DME supplier, and the supplier handles the paperwork with Medicare on your behalf.
  • Medicare typically approves lift chairs that recline and have a motorized lifting mechanism, but not basic recliners without the lift function.
  • If Medicare denies your claim, you can ask your doctor to provide more detail about your medical need, and the supplier can resubmit.

How to get your doctor to prescribe a lift chair

Start by talking to your primary care doctor or the specialist treating your condition. Explain specifically what makes it hard for you to stand — pain, weakness, balance problems, shortness of breath — and when it happens. The doctor needs to document in your medical record that you have a condition that limits your ability to transfer safely from a sitting position.

If your doctor agrees, they will write a prescription that includes the medical reason and may specify features like the height of the seat or the angle of recline. Bring this prescription to a Medicare-approved DME supplier. The supplier will verify that Medicare covers the item and handle the prior authorization request — meaning they ask Medicare in advance whether it will pay. Some suppliers do this step automatically; others will ask you to contact them first.

Do not buy the chair before Medicare approves it. If you purchase one on your own and then ask Medicare to reimburse you, the claim is much harder to process and may be denied.

What Medicare approves and what it does not

Medicare covers a lift chair with a motorized lifting mechanism that helps you stand. The chair must recline, and the lifting part must work by electricity. A basic recliner without a motor, or a chair that only reclines without lifting you up, is considered furniture and is not covered.

Medicare has an approved amount for lift chairs — the maximum it will pay. In 2024, this amount varies by region but is typically between $3,000 and $4,000. If the chair you want costs more, you will owe the difference out of pocket. If it costs less, you pay 20% of the actual cost (after your deductible) rather than 20% of the higher approved amount.

Some features — like heat, massage, or special upholstery — may not be covered. Ask the DME supplier which features are included in the Medicare-approved price and which would be add-ons you pay for separately.

Finding a Medicare-approved DME supplier

You must buy from a supplier that is enrolled with Medicare. You can search for suppliers in your area on the Medicare DME Supplier Directory at dmepos.cms.gov, or call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE to get a list. Not all furniture stores or medical supply companies are Medicare-approved, so verify before you order.

Once you have chosen a supplier, give them your prescription and your Medicare information. They will submit the prior authorization request to Medicare and let you know whether it is approved. This usually takes 5 to 10 business days. After approval, you can order the chair and arrange delivery and setup.

The supplier should also help you understand your out-of-pocket costs before you commit. Ask them what Medicare's approved amount is for the model you want, what your 20% share will be, and whether there are any additional charges for delivery or setup.

What happens if Medicare denies your request

Medicare may deny a lift chair request if the doctor's prescription does not clearly explain the medical reason, if the condition is not considered severe enough to require the equipment, or if the supplier did not submit the paperwork correctly. A denial does not mean you cannot get the chair — it means you need to provide more information.

Ask your doctor to write a more detailed note explaining your specific medical condition and why a lift chair is medically necessary for you. Include details like how many times a day you need help standing, what happens if you try to stand without help, and how the lift chair will reduce your risk of falling or injury. The DME supplier can resubmit the request with this additional documentation.

If Medicare denies the request a second time, you have the right to appeal. The supplier can file an appeal on your behalf, or you can contact Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE to ask about the appeal process.

Your costs and what to expect to pay

Your out-of-pocket cost depends on three things: whether you have met your Part B deductible for the year, what Medicare's approved amount is in your region, and what the actual chair costs.

If you have not met your Part B deductible (which is $240 in 2024), you pay that amount first. After the deductible is met, Medicare pays 80% of the approved amount, and you pay 20%. If the chair costs more than the approved amount, you also pay the full difference. For example, if the approved amount is $3,500 and the chair costs $4,200, Medicare pays 80% of $3,500 ($2,800), you pay 20% of $3,500 ($700), and you pay the full $700 difference — for a total of $1,400 out of pocket.

If you have a Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan, your coverage of that 20% may be different. Check your plan documents or call your plan to understand what you will owe.

Alternatives if Medicare does not cover your chair

If your doctor cannot prescribe a lift chair as medical equipment, or if Medicare denies your request and appeal, you have other options. You can purchase a lift chair on your own as a regular furniture item — prices range widely, from under $1,000 to several thousand dollars depending on features and brand. Some people use a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for it with pre-tax dollars if they have one through their employer or retirement plan.

You might also explore whether your state's Medicaid program covers lift chairs, or whether local aging services or charitable organizations offer information with equipment costs. Some occupational therapists can suggest lower-cost alternatives, like grab bars, raised toilet seats, or cushions that make standing easier without the cost of a full lift chair.

Questions to ask your doctor and supplier

Before you move forward, write down these questions and bring them to your appointments:

  • Do you think a lift chair is medically necessary for my condition, and will you write a prescription for one?
  • What specific medical reason will you document in the prescription?
  • Are there any features of the lift chair that are especially important for my condition?
  • What should I tell the DME supplier about my medical needs?
  • If Medicare denies the request, will you provide additional documentation to support an appeal?

For the DME supplier, ask:

  • Are you enrolled with Medicare, and do you handle prior authorization requests?
  • What is Medicare's approved amount for the lift chair model I am interested in?
  • What will my out-of-pocket cost be, including the 20% coinsurance and any difference between the approved amount and the actual price?
  • How long does prior authorization usually take?
  • What happens if Medicare denies the request, and can you help me appeal?
  • Do you handle delivery and setup, and is that included in the price or an additional charge?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a lift chair online and have Medicare reimburse me?

It is possible but much harder. Medicare prefers that you work with an approved DME supplier who submits the prior authorization before you buy. If you purchase on your own, you will need to submit the receipt and your doctor's prescription to Medicare yourself, and the claim may be denied if the paperwork is incomplete. It is safer to get approval in writing first.

Does Medicare cover a lift chair if I am in a Medicare Advantage plan?

Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least what Original Medicare covers, so a lift chair prescribed as medical equipment should be covered. However, your out-of-pocket costs and the approval process may be different. Contact your plan directly to understand your coverage and any prior authorization requirements.

What if my doctor says a lift chair would help but will not write a prescription?

Some doctors are hesitant to prescribe equipment they see as optional. You can ask your doctor to document your medical condition in detail and explain that you are asking for a prescription so you can explore whether Medicare will cover it. If your primary care doctor is not willing, ask the specialist treating your main condition — a rheumatologist for arthritis, a cardiologist for heart disease, or a physical therapist after surgery.

How long does it take to get a lift chair approved and delivered?

Prior authorization usually takes 5 to 10 business days. After approval, delivery and setup typically take 1 to 3 weeks depending on the supplier and whether the chair is in stock. Plan for a total of 3 to 4 weeks from the time you submit your prescription to the supplier.

Can I rent a lift chair instead of buying one?

Medicare covers rental of DME in some cases, and a lift chair may be one of them. Ask your DME supplier whether they offer rental and whether Medicare will cover it. Rental is sometimes an option if you need the chair temporarily — for example, while recovering from surgery — rather than permanently.