Key takeaways:
Medicare doesn’t cover walk-in tubs. They are not deemed medically necessary for most people and are not considered durable medical equipment. But there can be exceptions.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you’re more likely to receive an exception and have your walk-in tub covered. But this will likely require prior authorization.
The price for a walk-in tub with your preferred features and installation could cost $4,000 and $20,000.
A bath can be relaxing. But for some — particularly older adults — getting into and out of a tub can present challenges.
Walk-in tubs can be an easier and safer way to navigate these bathing basins by reducing the risk of falling. The main feature is a door with a very low threshold instead of a higher entry wall that requires you to lift your legs. In addition, walk-in tubs can have:
A seat
Depth beyond a traditional tub
Handheld showerheads known as hand showers
Handrails
Jets
Slip resistance on the floor
If you have arthritis, diabetes, fibromyalgia, or another condition, a walk-in tub can lead to reduced chronic pain and inflammation.
In most cases, a walk-in tub is not covered by Medicare. This means having one installed will require you to pay out of pocket. You could also use another insurance plan or find a grant program that covers the cost.
Can you get Medicare to cover a walk-in tub?
Medicare doesn’t deem walk-in tubs medically necessary for most people. Walk-in tubs also don’t qualify as durable medical equipment (DME), the reusable items that Medicare Part B typically covers. Stair lifts are also not covered because they’re considered a home improvement.
Mobility equipment that Medicare covers as DME includes:
Original Medicare (Part A and/or Part B) doesn’t cover a walk-in tub since this is considered a bathroom repair, upgrade, or retrofit. But a Medicare Advantage plan might.
With original Medicare or Medicare Advantage, you may be covered for whirlpool bath equipment if you’re homebound and the tub provides considerable therapeutic relief for certain diagnosed conditions.
If you have original Medicare and want your insurance to consider covering a walk-in tub, your supplier may require you to sign an Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage. This form states that you expect Medicare to deny the claim but want the item or service anyway and will be responsible for the cost if you’re denied coverage.
Coverage with Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans must meet or exceed what original Medicare covers. Most plans offer extra perks, such as:
Vision benefits
Dental benefits
Hearing benefits
A Medicare Advantage plan is not likely to cover a walk-in tub, but it may. If so, you would probably need prior authorization and a letter of medical necessity.
Obtaining a letter of medical necessity
A letter of medical necessity must come from your doctor to justify your need for a walk-in tub. This letter explains your medical condition and how the tub will improve your health. Even if you have a letter of medical necessity, your Medicare plan may still deny your claim.
Difference between a walk-in tub and a walk-in shower
A walk-in tub offers more safety, comfort, and potential therapeutic advantages than a walk-in shower. The chart below explores the advantages and disadvantages of each to determine which one may be right for you.
Walk-in bathing options comparison
| Unit type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Walk-in tub |
|
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| Walk-in shower |
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How much does a walk-in tub cost?
Total costs for an installed walk-in tub can range from $4,000 and $20,000. Lower-cost options have basic features, while hydrotherapy jets and larger tubs cost more. Your price will include the cost of the tub unit as well as installation. Installation costs can vary depending on the construction, electrical, and plumbing work required.
Options for financing a walk-in tub
You may be able to receive financing from the tub’s manufacturer or retailers, which typically offers installation. You can also explore other credit options, such as a personal loan or a home equity line of credit.
Grant and loan programs
If Medicare won’t cover a walk-in tub, you may qualify for a financial assistance program. These programs would pay for home modifications associated with accessibility and safety:
Your state’s Medicaid program may cover home accessibility modifications and a walk-in tub for eligible individuals. Some Medicaid programs have Home and Community-Based Services waivers. These pay for in-home modifications, such as walk-in tubs, if you qualify.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (previously known as the Section 504 Home Repair Program). These offer low-income homeowners in rural areas financial assistance to make accessibility modifications. Homeowners who can’t afford necessary home repairs and improvements can get up to $50,000 or $55,000 in combined assistance with loans and grants.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers several housing grants to assist veterans with upgrading homes to accommodate service-connected disabilities.
The bottom line
Medicare is unlikely to cover a walk-in tub. If you can get original Medicare or your Medicare Advantage plan to approve it, you will likely need a letter of medical necessity from your doctor and, potentially, additional documentation. If you can’t get coverage by Medicare, you may have other options to secure a free or low-cost walk-in tub. You could qualify for a Medicaid program in your state, a Department of Agriculture loan or grant, or a Veterans Affairs program that covers eligible individuals who need home modifications to ensure accessibility and safety.
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References
CMS.gov. (2026). FFS ABN. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
ConsumerAffairs. (2025). Beneficial walk-in tub features. Consumers Unified.
ConsumerAffairs. (2025). Walk-in showers vs. walk-in tubs. Consumers Unified.
ConsumerAffairs. (2025). What size water heater do I need for a walk-in tub? Consumers Unified.
Freed, M., et al. (2025). Medicare Advance 2026 spotlight: A first look at plan premiums and benefits. KFF.
Huber, J. (2023). Should we install a walk-in tub in our bathroom? The Washington Post.
McElwain, J. (2024). Price guide: What’s the average cost of a walk-in tub? Chapter.
Medicare.gov. (n.d.). Hospital beds. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Medicare.gov. (n.d.). Oxygen equipment & accessories. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Revive Design and Renovation. (2023). Pros & cons of a walk-in shower vs. walk-in tub: How to decide which is right for you?
U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development. (n.d.). Single family housing repair loans & grants.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2025). Disability housing grants for veterans.
