An electric wheelchair can be helpful if you have difficulty using a manual wheelchair.

Under certain conditions, Medicare Part B will cover an electric wheelchair for people with mobility issues inside their home under the durable medical equipment (DME) benefit.

Medicare considers wheelchairs as DME. If a doctor who works with Medicare writes an order or prescription for an electric wheelchair, you should be able to get it covered through Part B.

The order will need to state that you have a medical condition that affects mobility, making it difficult to move safely, even with crutches, a walker, or a cane, and that you are physically unable to use a manual wheelchair.

The order should state your intention to use an authorized Medicare supplier and that your doctor met with you to evaluate you no more than 6 months before they wrote the order.

Note that if you’ve opted to enroll in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, you’ll get the same coverage as you would under Original Medicare.

Depending on medical necessity, Medicare can cover various electric wheelchairs with prior authorization. These include:

  • a sling wheelchair or one with a solid seat and back
  • A wheelchair with an adjustable seat called a captain’s chair
  • A power-operated vehicle, which is larger and more durable than a standard electric wheelchair

Once your doctor submits an authorization request, it’s estimated that you should get a response within 10 business days.

Standard manual wheelchairs may cost as low as $150 to $1,000, while power wheelchairs, depending on the type, can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $12,000.

That said, Medicare Part B will typically pay for 80% of this cost if you’ve met your deductible, which is $257 in 2025. You also have to pay a monthly premium of $185 or higher, depending on your income.

Under Part C, your copay, deductible, and premium will depend on your plan. According to the Centers for Medicaid & Medicare (CMS), the average monthly premium for Part C plans is around $17.00 in 2025. In addition, with enrollment in a Part C plan, you still have to pay the Part B premium. That said, some Part C plans may cover your Part B premium.