When it comes to household safety hazards for older adults, we tend to think of poorly lit stairways and cluttered rooms. But for many, bathing or showering and getting out of the tub or shower can be one of the most dangerous activities in your home. Slippery floors and high bathtub walls increase the risk of falls—one of the top causes of injury among older Americans.

About 80% of bathroom injuries are caused by falls.¹ But there are changes you can make to ensure your safety, such as placing nonskid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet.

A walk-in tub can offer a safer more accessible bathing option by providing built-in seating with non-slip surfaces and a low barrier to entry. But since these products can be expensive, you may wonder: Does Medicare cover walk-in tubs?

In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about Medicare and walk-in tubs, including average tub costs, ways to save money, and alternatives that may better suit your needs and budget.

Does Medicare pay for walk-in tubs?

The short answer is no. In most cases, Medicare does not cover walk-in tubs. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not classify walk-in tubs as durable medical equipment (DME). DME refers to equipment that’s considered medically necessary—in other words, “services or supplies that meet accepted standards of medical practice to diagnose or treat your medical condition.” Canes, crutches, and wheelchairs fall into this category.  

Instead, walk-in tubs are viewed as home modifications or “comfort items,” even though they may improve safety and independence.

That said, there are exceptions. If a walk-in tub is deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer partial coverage or home modification benefits. But this is not guaranteed and coverage varies widely by plan, meaning some plans may offer more coverage in costs than others. Allowances on these plans tend to be modest, ranging from $200 to $2,000 annually. 

For most older adults, the cost of a walk-in tub must be paid out of pocket or through alternative funding sources.

Does Medicaid cover walk-in tubs?

Medicaid rules vary by state, but some state Medicaid programs may help cover walk-in tubs when they’re considered medically necessary. This coverage is more likely to be provided through waiver programs, grants, or other state-run programs aimed at helping older adults remain safely at home.

In these cases, a doctor’s note, occupational therapy recommendation, or proof of medical necessity may be required to get help with walk-in tub costs. Coverage may include partial reimbursement or payment for installation. Since each state has the flexibility to create its own benefits and guidelines, it’s important to check with your state Medicaid office.

Does private health insurance cover walk-in tubs?

Most private health insurance plans, including employer-sponsored or marketplace plans, also treat walk-in tubs like a home modification rather than a medical device. This means they typically do not provide coverage.

Certain long-term care insurance policies may cover modifications that make your home safer and more accessible—such as wheelchair ramps, shower handles, and yes, even walk-in tubs. "Some long-term care insurance will cover a variety of modifications to your home," certified estate planner Chuck Czajka told CBS News.

Long-term care insurance policies vary, and coverage for walk-in tubs is not common. Still, if you have this type of policy, it’s worth reviewing the fine print or calling your carrier directly to see what’s covered.

Do veteran benefits cover walk-in tubs?

Yes, in some cases. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers Housing Adaptation Programs that may cover walk-in tubs if they are found to be medically necessary. These include:

• Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grants: May help veterans make medically necessary home modifications, including installing a walk-in tub
• Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants: For veterans with certain service-connected disabilities who need major modifications to live independently
• Special Home Adaptation (SHA) grants: For veterans with qualifying disabilities requiring specific home modifications
• Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) grants: For veterans with qualifying disabilities when they are living temporarily in a family member’s or caregiver’s home

If you’re a veteran interested in these grant programs, reach out to your VA representative to see if you’re eligible.

How much do walk-in tubs cost?

Walk-in tubs can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $17,000. They vary widely in price depending on the size, features, and installation requirements.

Below are some average walk-in tub costs including installation: 

• Basic soaker tub: $3,000-$10,000
• Hydrotherapy (jetted) tub: $6,000-$13,000
• Luxury (multi-feature) tub: $9,000-$17,000

See our complete guide to walk-in tub costs.

How much does a used walk-in tub cost?

A used walk-in tub can range from as little as $200 to as much as $3,000 or more. They may cost considerably less than new models—but keep in mind pre-owned tubs may not include installation, warranties, or custom sizing. Buying used may also limit your access to modern safety features, so weigh the pros and cons before purchasing.

How can I save on a walk-in tub?

If you’re paying out of pocket for a walk-in tub, you may be worried about how you can afford it. But luckily, there are strategies to help reduce your costs:

• Use FSA or HSA funds: If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), these funds may cover part of the cost with a doctor’s letter of medical necessity.
• Look for sales or discounts: Manufacturers and retailers may offer special seasonal promotions. Keep an eye on their website or subscribe to their email list to make sure you’re alerted to savings opportunities.
• Ask about payment plans: Many walk-in tub retailers provide financing options to spread out the cost over time.
• Explore nonprofit programs: Organizations like Rebuilding Together connect low-income older adults, veterans, and other vulnerable populations with home safety modifications that help them live more independently.

"A walk-in tub should reduce some of the physical risks you may face while entering or exiting the bathtub because it has a lower step, a seat rest, non-slip flooring, and handrails," said Dorothea Vafiadis, Senior Director of NCOA’s Center for Healthy Aging. "But paying for one can be challenging. That’s why it’s important to think ‘out of the box’ and explore different avenues that can provide financial assistance."

Are walk-in tubs tax deductible? 

Yes—but only if the tub is deemed medically necessary by a medical professional (e.g., your doctor). The IRS may allow you to deduct the cost of a walk-in tub as a medical expense when it’s prescribed by your doctor to prevent falls or accommodate a condition (e.g., arthritis). Installation costs may also qualify. To claim this deduction, be sure to have detailed records, receipts, and a physician’s note handy when you’re filing your tax return. 
 
Note: You can only deduct the portion of your total medical expenses that's greater than 7.5% of your annual adjusted gross income.   

Where can I get help paying for a walk-in tub? 

While Medicare generally doesn’t cover walk-in tubs, there are other programs and resources that may be able to help you or someone you care about: 

• Medicaid waivers: As mentioned earlier, certain Medicaid waiver programs may cover walk-in tubs for people with low income who qualify for in-home support services.
• VA grants: Veterans may apply for HISA, SAH, SHA, or TRA grants to help pay for medically necessary home modifications.
• Nonprofit and local programs: Some Area Agencies on Aging, senior support organizations, and local nonprofits offer grants or financial aid for home modifications. Use the Eldercare Locator to connect with agencies in your area.

Are there alternatives to walk-in tubs?

​​​​​​​If the cost of a walk-in tub is too high and you haven’t found any resources to help, there are other ways to improve your bathroom safety. See below for examples.

1. Roll-in showers. Barrier-free showers eliminate the need to step over a high threshold, making them ideal for wheelchair users. Some Medicaid programs may cover their installation.
2. Shower chairs. Shower chairs provide a stable seat for those who can’t stand for long. Basic shower chairs are readily available in many pharmacies and stores; these are inexpensive and easy to set up. On the pricier end, there are roll-in shower chairs (or shower wheelchairs) that allow people with severe mobility challenges to roll directly into accessible showers.  
3. Bath lifts. Bath lifts provide a safe, comfortable way to bathe independently. Popular options include motor- or battery-powered models that raise and lower at the touch of a button, while other styles use hand cranks, inflatables, or fixed bands. Many battery-operated bath lifts also feature reclining seats, floating hand controls, and padding for added comfort. For more information, see our: Guide to Buying a Used Stair Lift
4. Handrails and grab bars. Installing grab bars around your tub or shower costs far less than a walk-in tub and can substantially reduce your fall risk. Medicare Advantage plans may sometimes cover these modifications. 
5. Walkers and mobility aids. For people with mobility challenges, using a walker along with bathroom safety modifications can help prevent slips and falls. Many mobility aids are considered durable medical equipment and covered under Medicare Part B.

For more information, see our guide: How to Prevent Falls With Home Safety Modifications.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How do I know if my insurance covers walk-in tubs? 
Call your insurance provider directly and ask whether walk-in tubs are covered under your plan. Coverage is rare, but some Medicare Advantage or long-term care insurance plans may provide some level of assistance. 

What documentation do I need for insurance coverage? 
Most insurers require a doctor’s letter of medical necessity to provide any degree of coverage for walk-in tubs. You can increase your odds of getting approved by providing medical records, prescriptions, and cost estimates from contractors or suppliers. 

Can I use FSA or HSA funds for walk-in tubs? 
Yes—if you have a doctor’s letter of medical necessity, you typically can use FSA or HSA funds to pay for the tub or related installation costs. 

Is a walk-in tub durable medical equipment (DME)? 
No, not under original Medicare rules (see what original Medicare covers). Walk-in tubs are considered home modifications rather than DME. But some Medicare Advantage plans may classify them differently. Check with your plan provider to be sure.

Source

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nonfatal Bathroom Injuries Among Persons > 15 Years, United States, 2008. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. June 10, 2011. Found on the internet at https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6022a1.htm